Bronco Raptor's New Black Appearance Package Debuts, Overshadows a Total Solar Eclipse

FORD CANADA - Under dramatically darkened skies, and in front of owners at the Bronco Off-Roadeo Texas, Ford introduced the 2024 Bronco Raptor Black Appearance Package. A mix of Shadow and Matte black exterior features, the new option package gives the Bronco Raptor’s go-over-any-terrain capability a sinister new look.

The Black Appearance Package comes with a striking Shadow Black painted roof complemented by matching mirror caps, a painted roll bar, and fender flares, all in the same shade, to create striking contrasts with the Raptor’s bold paint catalog. Bronco Raptor also comes with a Matte Black steel bumper, skid plate, and tow hooks. 

 

The Shadow Black painted roll bar is reminiscent of the contrasting roll bar on the sixth-generation concept Bronco SUVs and the painted skid plate comes in response to current Bronco Raptor customers who have painted the skid plates themselves.

 

Unique Raptor body-side and hood decals round out the package’s C$6,995 MSRP, which customers can order at a dealer soon. 

 

“Customers choose Bronco Raptor for two reasons: its high-performance off-road capability and its distinctive appearance,” said Bronco Brand Manager Jason Hyde. “The Black Appearance gives them a look that stands out on any trail and under any sky, even a total solar eclipse.” 

 

Bronco owners will get the first look at the Bronco Raptor Black Appearance Package during an owner-exclusive event at Bronco off-Roadeo in Austin, Texas, at an appropriately dark time: under the backdrop of the April 8 total solar eclipse.

 

The Black Appearance Package follows the vibrant Code Orange package introduced in 2023. 

Desert-Racing, Rock-Crawling 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor Debuts as Most Powerful Street-Legal Bronco Ever

FORD CANADA - Two icons that have tackled off-road terrain for years are coming together to take on even more: Bronco^® and Raptor^™. Built for desert running and boulder crawling, the all-new 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor gives off-roaders next-level performance.

Bronco Raptor, the newest member of the Bronco outdoor brand of Built Wild^™ SUVs, debuts today as the most powerful street-legal Bronco ever, and the world’s first Ultra4 Racing-inspired SUV. Ford Performance, the same team that produces the F-150 Raptor, designed and engineered Bronco Raptor as a calling to hardcore off-road enthusiasts.

Bronco Raptor is equipped with elite off-road technology and hardware. Ultra4 Racing is the epitome of grueling off-road competition, featuring demanding races such as the famed King of the Hammers in the Johnson Valley in California, where Bronco Raptor will be on display on Feb. 3. Ford and Bronco will continue as the official truck and SUV of the Ultra4 series.

With the addition of Bronco Raptor, Ford once again expands its Raptor high-performance off-road vehicle franchise, which also includes F-150 Raptor for North America and Ranger Raptor for global markets.

“Raptor is the apex of our off-road lineup and is now a full lineup with race proven content and design that you can’t get from anyone else,” said Jim Farley, chief executive officer, Ford Motor Company. “Only Ford could create a Bronco Raptor.”

Beyond the Raptor family, Ford offers an unmatched variety of additional on- and off-road high-performance and specialty performance vehicles, from Mustang Shelby GT500, the pinnacle of Mustang street performance, to the ST lineup of cars and SUVs, to the Tremor family of F-Series and Ranger tough and work-capable off-road trucks.

Ford Performance unleashes extreme Built Wild capability and durability 

To build the world’s first Ultra4-inspired SUV, Ford Performance set the bar high. Bronco Raptor had to be even faster and bring more off-road capability, agility and maneuverability than Bronco already delivers.

“We had to build the Bronco Raptor – it’s our ultimate vehicle for hardcore off-road enthusiasts who demand something more,” said Carl Widmann, Ford Performance chief engineer. “Like the Ultra4 desert race trucks, the ‘Raptor of SUVs’ conquers desert dunes at highway speeds and is equipped with competition-level off-road technology and hardware.”

Starting with the Bronco frame foundation, the Ford Performance team knew it needed a Raptor-specific version for increased suspension travel and track width for handling stability during high-speed desert runs. At the Raptor core is a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame with new shock towers that increase wheel travel and off-road durability. Heavy-duty bash and skid plates provide continuous driveline coverage from the front bumper to the back of the engine, transmission and transfer case. In the upper body, B-pillar cross bar and C-pillar reinforcement help deliver a greater than 50% total body-in-prime torsional rigidity increase over a standard Bronco four-door model.

Competition-level, Ford Performance-developed axles, also used on the Bronco DR race truck, further deliver on the Ultra4-inspiration. The solid rear axle is upgraded to a semi-float Dana 50^™ Heavy-Duty AdvanTEK^® with 235-millimeter ring gear, while the Dana 44^™ AdvanTEK front-drive unit includes upgraded half-shafts with 210-millimeter ring gear. These upgraded front and rear axles increase the track width by 8.6 inches (73.6 inches versus 65.0 inches) over a base Bronco for even more sure-footed confidence. Larger front and rear driveshafts support increased wheel torque. Bronco Raptor also runs with a minimum ground clearance of 13.1 inches, 4.8 inches more than a base four-door model.

An advanced 4x4 system with three modes includes a higher-capacity clutch designed to withstand the demands of high-performance desert events. The upgraded transfer case also features a 3.06 4x4 LO ratio for up to 67.7:1 crawl ratio.

The Ford Performance team collaborated with FOX^™ to upgrade the High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension (HOSS) system with Live Valve technology. Similar to the F-150 Raptor truck’s position-sensitive damping design, the Raptor HOSS 4.0 system features FOX 3.1 Internal Bypass Semi-Active Dampers (3.1-inch diameter) that are uniquely tuned at the front and rear and feature integrated reservoirs up front and remote reservoirs in rear. Suspension height sensors and other sensors at each corner monitor terrain conditions independently hundreds of times every second and adjust suspension tuning accordingly.

Unique Ford Performance-designed front and rear control arms help deliver maximum wheel travel of 13.0 inches in front and 14.0 inches at the rear, or 60% and 40% more, respectively, than a Bronco base model. To deliver the confidence and high-speed needs of the world’s first Ultra4-inspired SUV, the Ford Performance team reached out to BFGoodrich for standard 37-inch KO2 all-terrain tires (37x12.50R17LT), the largest of any production SUV in America**. Two Ford Performance-designed 17-inch x 8.5-inch beadlock-capable wheels are available. An electric-power steering rack and housing influenced by F-150 Raptor, as well as larger-diameter inner and outer tie rod ends, were added to further upgrade Bronco Raptor.

To give Bronco Raptor even more desert-running power, the Ford powertrain team developed the proven twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost^® engine with specific Raptor-level tuning to meet Ford Performance standards. With a target of more than 400 horsepower*, Bronco Raptor will be the most powerful street-legal Bronco ever, with intercooling and air-induction systems designed to endure the higher ambient desert temperatures.

For higher-speed desert capabilities or crawling over rocks, the compacted graphite iron-block engine, which saves weight while providing strength for added durability, is paired with a 10-speed SelectShift^™ automatic transmission tuned to meet Ford Performance standards. A true dual-exhaust system, featuring first-for-Bronco active-valve technology, uses near-equal-length pipes for an improved exhaust note. The system allows drivers to alter the sound of their Bronco Raptor with four selectable exhaust modes, including Normal, Sport, Quiet and Baja.

Bronco Raptor builds on the brand’s exclusive G.O.A.T. Modes^™ (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) Terrain Management System^™ designed to help drivers better navigate off-road. Seven driver-selectable modes include a uniquely tuned Baja Mode that activates a turbo anti-lag calibration to maximize performance over high-speed desert runs. New to Bronco is Tow/Haul mode, which helps enable a tow rating of 4,500 pounds, a 1,000-pound improvement over the base model. Trail Control, Trail Turn Assist and Trail One-Pedal Driving are also included.

Raptor styling with extreme Built Wild innovative design

The first-ever Bronco Raptor delivers purpose-built design, infusing Raptor-family signature cues with the truck’s Built Wild innovative design.

“As the most badass Bronco yet, the Bronco Raptor design is extreme,” said Paul Wraith, Bronco design chief. “It’s muscular, while maintaining an underlying simplicity with performance-focused details added only for outstanding high-speed capability.”

Familiar Ford block lettering at the front stretches across the signature two-piece rectangular grille. Model-specific LED headlights featuring amber daytime running lamps and integrated amber marker lamps further tie in the DNA of Raptor to provide a menacing look. A heavy-duty modular steel front bumper by Ford Performance features tow hooks, removable bumper end caps for improved off-road clearance, integrated removable Rigid LED fog lamps and Rigid off-road lamps for greater illumination.

The hood on Bronco Raptor is made of sheet-molding compound, offering the design team the ability to dramatically sculpt its muscular shape. An integrated hood vent is molded-in-color Carbon Black and fender vents are painted body color. Raptor logos on the left and right of the hood bulge hint at the twin-turbo power underneath. 

Bronco Raptor proudly leverages the Bronco SUV’s patented off-road modular design, stripped it to its base, and replaced components with unique-to-Raptor front and rear quarter-panels, fenders, fender flares and door appliques. Sheet-molding compound is once again used to sculpt the wider front fenders and integrated bodyside heat extraction ducts, which provide additional engine cooling. Sheet-molding compound rear-quarter panels are equally bolstered for a muscular look. Together with fender flares, Bronco Raptor sits 9.8 inches wider than a standard Bronco. Bronco Raptor-specific reinforced rock rails with removable running boards increase rock crawling capability.

For even more Raptor-styling DNA, an available Bronco Raptor Graphics Package includes new splatter graphics on the rear bodysides and hood that use an overlapping broken trapezoidal pattern and floating shapes to present a sophisticated digital appearance. Exterior colors include Hot Pepper Red Metallic, Velocity Blue Metallic, Eruption Green Metallic, Shadow Black, Iconic Silver Metallic, Area 51, Cactus Gray, Cyber Orange Metallic Tri-Coat, Oxford White, plus Ford Performance-exclusive Code Orange paint.

Race-focused with a performance-optimized interior

Bronco Raptor features a familiar heritage-inspired horizontal dash, integrating an all-digital 12-inch cluster. The cluster allows drivers to select from various views, including a Bronco Raptor-exclusive Performance View that emphasizes tachometer and gear readings and allows the customization of gauges.

“The Bronco Raptor interior was designed around what we know hardcore off-road racers want in a vehicle,” said Ryan Olsson, design manager. “From the all-new Performance View on the cluster and unique steering wheel with paddle shifters and fingertip access to Raptor-specific controls, to its race-ready, high-bolster front seats, Bronco Raptor leaves the factory ready for the starting line.”

Base Bronco Raptor models are equipped with Black Onyx marine-grade vinyl seats and rubberized washout flooring. The dark interior is accented with Ford Performance Code Orange splashes on the G.O.A.T. Modes rotary dial, dash vents, door netting, steering wheel stitching and Bronco logo on the instrument panel. Even the push-button ignition lights up in Code Orange. Touchpoints such as the grab handles, steering wheel bezel and gear shifter wear low-gloss carbon fiber accents.

Owners can opt for upgraded features such as all-new laser-perforated Black Onyx Neo suede seats, vinyl-wrapped instrument panel topper, leather-wrapped outer seat bolsters and carpet flooring. A thicker and sport-contoured steering wheel with magnesium paddle shifters and gloss black Raptor logo center continues the Ford Performance treatment. Ford Performance-designed front seats are unique to Bronco Raptor, designed with aggressive foam side bolsters to help keep passengers firmly seated when the terrain gets nasty. Available Code Orange seat belts provide even more Ford Performance style.

Bronco Raptor comes standard with a High Package that includes SYNC^®4 with 12-inch touchscreen with swipe capability, information on-demand panel and enhanced voice recognition. Other technology features include an exterior camera with 360-degree viewing capability. The Lux Package is available for customers looking for even more human-centered technology, such as an available 10-speaker B&O audio system and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Customers can begin placing orders in March. Vehicles will begin to arrive this summer.

*Horsepower rating based on premium fuel per SAE J1349® standard. Your results may vary.

**Assembled in the USA with domestic and foreign parts.

 

Shelby American Introduces Its Latest Generation Shelby Raptor, Its Most Polished Off Road Super Truck Ever

SHELBY AMERICAN - Shelby American, a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International Inc. (CSBI:PK), has announced the latest generation Shelby Ford F-150 Raptor, the most polished off-road truck ever offered by the company. The 525-horsepower truck is now available in limited quantities through official dealers nationwide.

“Shelby American and Ford Motor Company have a tremendous history of working diligently together on high performance cars and trucks for enthusiasts worldwide,” said Joe Conway, CEO of Shelby American. “We’re excited to continue that important legacy. The future is bright as our companies continue evolving the product line, so the public has even more choices for world-class Shelby vehicles through Ford dealer showrooms.”

The latest vehicle in the lineup builds upon Shelby American’s rich legacy.

“Carroll Shelby established Shelby American in 1962 and immediately pulled ahead of every automaker, just as he did on the track while a racecar driver,” said Gary Patterson, president of Shelby American. “An important part of his legacy was the idea of a high-performance street legal truck, which his team pioneered in the 1980s. When Ford introduced the first F-150 Raptor in 2010, Shelby began building super trucks based on that incredible vehicle. Our latest generation achieves handling, ride and power levels no one could envision when Shelby American started on this trail.”

In 2021, Ford introduced a fully redesigned F-150 Raptor that boosted its off-road capability with all-new five-link rear suspension featuring improved wheel travel and electronically controlled shocks along with upsized wheels and tires. The reengineered running gear features extra-long trailing arms to better maintain axle position on rough terrain, a Panhard rod and 24-inch coil springs. Next-generation FOX™ Live Valve™ internal bypass shocks with state-of-the-art electronic control technology offer position-sensitive damping adjustability.

The high output 3.5-liter EcoBoost® V6 engine delivers strong low-end torque for maximum towing and increased payload capability. The suspension design combined with more sophisticated engine management software means the truck can put more torque to the rear wheels for quicker starts off the line, faster acceleration and better throttle responsiveness while still delivering comfort, stability, handling, control and traction at speed.

The interior was completely redesigned to elevate the owner experience with style, comfort and utility. The truck features enhanced materials, new color choices and more storage. The new Ford Shelby Raptor has standard over-the-air updates and a new connected experience that can deliver potential features like shareable digital trail maps. There is also SYNC® 4 with cloud-connected navigation and voice search and the FordPass mobile app to check on the truck remotely and more.

“The Ford F-150 Raptor and Shelby version of the truck have improved every generation,” said Vince LaViolette, Shelby American Vice President of Operations and Chief Designer. “The latest Shelby Raptor boasts its best suspension system ever, giant 37-inch off-road tires on aluminum forged wheels, functional offroad bumpers and LED lighting for any occasion. It makes impressive power, can stay cool in the most severe environments and look handsome while doing it.”

The all-new 2021-2022 Shelby Ford F-150 Raptor delivers the rugged capabilities needed for outdoor adventure. The heavy-duty suspension and underbody were built to withstand the toughest conditions with its race-proven FOX Live Valve system. The suspension provides a smooth and comfortable feeling on pavement with aggressive control and stability at high speeds off-road.

Shelby American worked closely with partners like Fox, Ford Performance and Whipple to create its vision of the truck. Leveraging the new capabilities of the Ford Raptor, it has more power, refinement, technology and handling capabilities.

For 2021, the Shelby Raptor features new and better handling underpinning, 75 more horsepower, an additional cooling package and an exterior with rugged all-American styling. The Shelby Raptor strikes an imposing stance with its robust bumper system, bed chase rack system carrying a pair of spare alloy 18-inch wheels wrapped in 37-inch high-performance tires, functional fresh air hood, Shelby stripes and badges. Inside, the Shelby American theme continues across the leather seats, dashboard and floor mats.

“The Shelby Raptor has every creature comfort the new F-Series truck provides,” said Patterson. “And it has the capabilities to back up its bold looks. From skimming sand dunes to maneuvering the asphalt jungle, it’s by far our most polished off-road truck to date.”

The Shelby Ford F-150 Raptor, including the truck, start at $124,820 MSRP. The truck is available through select Tuscany and Ford dealers in North America. Each vehicle from Shelby American has a Shelby serial number that will be documented in the official Shelby Registry. The cars come with a 3 year/36,000-mile warranty including powertrain. Individuals interested in Shelby vehicle can visit their local dealer or go to (https://www.shelby.com).  

*Horsepower ratings based on use of 93-octane fuel