Ford Ranger pickup truck is about to experience its first major motorsport adventure, as Ford Racing Team confirms their entry into the 2014 Dakar Rally. They will enter two South African-built Ford Rangers in the event, which will take place from 05 – 18 January 2014 in South America.

The Rangers, being prepared by Pietermaritzburg-based Neil Woolridge Motorsport, are based on the 4×4 Double Cab T6 model and feature the Ford Aluminum 5.0L-4V V8 engine. The powertrain is tweaked with Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing and Magneti Marelli management system to deliver 260kW (350hp) and 560 Nm of torque.It is mated to a Sadev 6 Speed Sequential and permanent 4 wheel drive.

What we love about this engine is its fuel consumption. It drinks 90 Liter / 100km in sandy racing conditions and 28L / 100km on normal roads! The special independent suspension system in these Rangers features Twin BOS Dampers and anti-roll bars front and rear. The brakes Brembos – water-cooled at the rear and air-cooled up front. They have a 500 liter fuel cell, and as for the wheels and tires, they use 16 inch Evocorse rims fitted with 245/85 – 16 Michelin tyres. The two-ton trucks can reach a top speed of 170 km/h.

Logistics play a major part in a team’s success in Dakar, which is why Ford decided to give the job to the professional South Racing GmbH, based near Frankfurt, Germany. They will use structure including the MAN 6X6 Service Trucks, MAN T4 Race Trucks and service equipment. In addition to the vehicles and equipment South Racing will manage all logistic and administration requirements.

The driver lineup is a mi of local and intentional drivers, including South American native Lucio Alvarez and South African Chris Visser.