Ford to enter the 2014 Dakar Rally

Ford has announced its plan to tackle the 2014 Dakar Rally using a pair of Ranger pick-ups.

Built according to FIA / ASO T1 regulations by South African outfit Neil Woolridge Motorsports, the trucks have been extensively modified to cope with the gruelling event. Among the upgrades are twin dampers for each wheel, full composite bodywork and water-cooled rear brakes.

One Ranger is set to be crewed by three-time Dakar veterans Lucio Alvarez and Ronnie Graue, while the second will feature ex-South African Cross Country Championship winners (but Dakar newbies) Chris Visser and Japie Badenhorst.

Ford Ranger T1 - 2014 Technical Specifications
Base vehicle	Ford Ranger 4x4 Double Cab
Engine	5.0 litre aluminium V8 with twin independent variable cam timing
Power	348 bhp (260 kW / 353 PS) at 4,500 rpm
Torque	560 Nm (413 lb/ft) at 4,100 rpm
Transmission	Sadev 6-speed sequential gearbox; permanent four-wheel drive; limited-slip differentials front and rear
Top speed	105 mph (170 km/h)
Fuel consumption	Normal road driving: 10.0 mpg (28 l/100km); sandy racing conditions: 3.1 mpg (90 l/100km)
Weight	1,975 kg (4,354 lbs)

The 2014 Dakar Rally begins in Rosario, Argentina on the 5th of January. The route then briefly enters Bolivia before eventually finishing in Valparaiso, Chile on the 18th of January.

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