New F-150 Raptor marks first-ever official export program for Ford F-Series and F-150 to China
03 Feb 2017 | 3761 Views | By Autocar Professional Bureau
Ford USA has started shipping its all-new 2017 F-150 Raptor – the ultimate high-performance off-road pickup truck – to customers in China, marking the first time any U.S.-built F-Series truck has been officially exported to China.
The F-150 Raptor, which is built at the Dearborn Truck Plant ...
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Ford USA has started shipping its all-new 2017 F-150 Raptor – the ultimate high-performance off-road pickup truck – to customers in China, marking the first time any U.S.-built F-Series truck has been officially exported to China.
The F-150 Raptor, which is built at the Dearborn Truck Plant in North America, is billed to be in a class of one among off-road performance vehicles, with purpose-built engine, chassis and suspension – all of which enable it to travel fast over challenging desert landscapes or crawl along rocky terrain, from Baja to the Gobi Desert.
“Ford is one of America’s top exporters, and F-150 Raptor’s appeal and unmatched off-road performance has earned the truck a loyal following around the globe,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president, The Americas. “Export to China enables us to bring a new group of enthusiasts into the Ford family.”
Exported as a four-door SuperCrew model, the second-generation F-150 Raptor leverages the latest advanced technologies, including a military-grade, high-strength, aluminum-alloy cab, while its muscular body is uniquely composite. The all-new Raptor features an exclusive high-output version of the 3.5-litre EcoBoost engine, plus a Ford-built 10-speed automatic transmission and advanced six-mode Terrain Management System™.
Other one-of-a-kind F-150 Raptor features include a Ford Performance-engineered high-strength steel frame with custom Fox Racing shocks with higher ground clearance, BFGoodrich off-road tyres and full dual-performance exhaust system.
“Raptor’s unique looks and capability have generated amazing buzz at every auto show we’ve brought it to around China,” said David Schoch, Ford group vice-president and president, Ford Asia Pacific. “F-150 Raptor is another example of our commitment to offer a wide range of vehicles for customers in China – everything from SUVs to high-performance cars and trucks.”
F-150 Raptor is one of more than 12 new Ford Performance vehicles planned by 2020. It joins Ford GT, Focus RS, Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT350R in a growing Ford Performance lineup.”