Here's Mud In Your Eye: Ford Raptor gets new microsite
Click above for a high-res gallery of the F-150 Raptor driving simulator
Ford is looking to drum up some extra interest in its F-150 SVT Raptor off-road specialist ahead of its actual on-sale date (which is still only listed as "coming soon") with the introduction of a new dedicated microsite that you can check out here. Features on the new web destination include a place to learn what makes the Raptor different from the rest of the F-150 lineup, along with videos, a gallery and an online tool to build your own.
Still not enough to whet your appetite? According to Brian Bell, Ford's F-150 consumer marketing manager, "We want people to understand the unique capability of this truck, that it can do things that other trucks just can't." To that end, Ford has been bringing an off-road driving simulator to the assorted U.S. auto shows that we've been following over the last few months, and the Blue Oval will evidently continue doing this on through the rest of the 2009 circuit. Give it a shot, it's good fun.
Gallery: 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor
[Source: Ford]
PRESS RELEASE:
NEW FORD RAPTOR WEB PAGE JOINS SIMULATOR IN OFFERING CONSUMERS TASTE OF NEW OFF-ROAD TRUCK
The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Ride
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* Ford F-150 SVT Raptor comes to life online with a new Web page designed to offer enthusiasts a closer look at the high-performance off-road truck
* A Ford F-150 SVT Raptor driving simulator visiting auto shows across the U.S. gives consumers the opportunity to experience off-roading in the desert
* 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor is a purpose-built, high-performance off-road truck versatile enough to take on the most challenging desert adventures as well as the everyday commute
DEARBORN, Mich., March 6, 2009 – With a look born in the desert, the new Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Web page is a place enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the experience of driving a truck built to excel in the most extreme conditions. Launching today, the new Web page – www.fordvehicles.com/f150raptor – highlights the expansive features of Ford's new high-performance off-road truck.
"We wanted to ensure the site is true to what Raptor is, emphasizing it as different and unique," said Eric Peterson, Ford's Truck and SUV communications manager. "Delivering Raptor's unique durability and performance is something only Ford can do, staying true to both our tough truck and racing heritage. We wanted to make that clear through the site."
Unique Web Site Content
Unique applications on the site, like a 360-degree view, give consumers a thorough perspective of the truck and allow them to get a closer look at the features and functions that make it such a capable off-road vehicle. By clicking over components unique to the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, such as front shocks, engine, design cues and tires and wheels, visitors can learn more about what gives the truck its distinct personality.
Visitors also will get to see the truck in action, with videos demonstrating its capability in extreme terrain. One video showcases Raptor R, the racing version of the production Ford F-150 SVT Raptor developed by SVT and Ford Racing, by highlighting clips and interviews with key players from its successful racing debut at the Tecate SCORE Baja 1000.
In addition to the 360 view and videos, information and photos about the F-150 SVT Raptor will enhance the site. But these aren't glamour shots. These are Raptors in action.
"There are not a lot of pristine photos. People will see mud and dirt on it, doing the things only the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor can do," said Peterson. "Most websites have beauty shots, but we show how the truck is actually used."
Visitors to the Web site also can request a customized brochure or build an F-150 SVT Raptor with the content they desire.
Experience a Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Ride
A high-end driving simulator also is bringing consumers closer to experiencing Raptor in its element – racing across the desert. Touring auto shows across the country, the simulator pivots on four axes: tipping forward, backward, moving side-to-side and going up and down, with the ability to spin 180 degrees. Actual engine recordings from the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor R race truck enhance the experience, while bumps and jolts when the driver goes off-course ensure a realistic ride
Designed using off-road footage, the race course and the desert landscape are projected on a screen in front of the driver. The course gives three unique experiences: a close course with tight turns, a rocky area and an open desert area with tracks to follow.
"If we can't put people in a Raptor at an auto show, we can put them in the next best thing so they can see what it's like," said Brian Bell, Ford's F-150 consumer marketing manager. "We want people to understand the unique capability of this truck, that it can do things that other trucks just can't."
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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 213,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's wholly owned automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
Valentino Amoro 7:55PM (3/06/2009)
I hate trucks for recreational purposes. Of course, for people who actually use these, it's a legit offering.
This truck OTOH is really cool. I dont think there are many vehicles like it on the market. Paris-Dakar ready, 400HP+, AWD, huge clearance, massive acceleration.
Fun on the roads, fun off road.
Thats said there isnt much use for this for me in Seattle, but I would love to own one. It's a good alternative to a Landrover/FJ Cruiser and Jeep, especially for those who want speed.
Reply
Jake B 10:45PM (3/06/2009)
I was under the impression that it will debut with the standard 5.4L, and will NOT be pushing close to 400 horsepower but more like 320 horsepower. Anyone know what's up with that? And I believe it has 4WD that can be switched to RWD or is it full time 4WD?
Valentino Amoro 10:55PM (3/06/2009)
Correct, it is debuting with 320. But all indications are that the engine will be upgraded soon.
Not sure if its default FWD.
SteveO 12:02AM (3/07/2009)
Jake B,
It will have the standard 2hi, 4hi, 4lo. It will also have the rear locker out of the FX4, but what will be special is that you will be able to engage it in 2wd or 4x4, whereas in the FX4 you can only use it in 4x4.
Rhawb 7:56PM (3/06/2009)
Is it sad that I spent more time looking for who designed the simulator software than reading about the truck it was designed to advertise?
Reply
JayP 8:16PM (3/06/2009)
I tried the simulator... and unless you get multiple tries, don't bother.
I'm a good driver, DE instructor for going on 10 years and think I can drive- this thing took my lunch and ate it in front of me.
The operator said it was $60k per unit.
arturo 8:06PM (3/06/2009)
the SVT Raptor is going to kick as$ period. To me, its going to be real hard to decide between a raptor, or the 2010 mustang GT. I was comparing the 2010 mustang with the 05 model and wow there is a lot of differences. The 05 GT looks plain compare to the new one that is coming up. I was checking both on 360 degree view.
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C.W. 9:57PM (3/06/2009)
yeah. agreed. this truck is unbelieveable.
A Gupta 8:12PM (3/06/2009)
Huge customization options... color and graphics! Whee...
I'm still looking for a price, and hoping it's not the $40k suggested earlier... this would make such an awesome driveway ornament!
Reply
CarbonBlack 9:58PM (3/06/2009)
I found the configure section to be lame.
There are a maximum of 8 possible variations..............yippee!
Matt 9:05PM (3/06/2009)
Completely useless truck.
And people wonder why the Big three were in front of congress.
But yeah...just what America needs RIGHT NOW is a "JC Whitney" special like this...or a 40K Taurus.
Good thing that canceled the Fiesta ST...
Reply
Yaroukh 9:30PM (3/06/2009)
Oh yeah, that is the Matt we know.
Welcome, our beloved Ford-hater!
CarbonBlack 9:53PM (3/06/2009)
Would you call a Shelby GT500 useless?
It seems like this truck is the off road equivalent.
It is an amazingly fun vehicle (IMO), and therefore it is useful.
It also has a bed to carry stuff.........which also makes it useful.
Matt 10:37PM (3/06/2009)
Yes the GT500 is useless. It is also a ugly, underperforming, overweight pig. Ford has successfully built the worlds slowest 500 HP sports car.
As for the "JC Whitney Special" truck above...it is overpriced, ugly, and can only tow a pitiful 6000 pounds. Some truck when a V6 Explorer can come withing 1000 pounds of the JC Whitney's limit...
But hey...if I am ever driving down the road and all the sudden I am faced with a sand dune that I NEED to drive over...then the Raptor is the truck for it.
I guess hopes the road to recovery is full of useless and ugly niche vehicles.
Jake B 2:37AM (3/07/2009)
Oh my god Matt. Who would want to tow with a raptor anyway. You do realize that the raptor sits kinda high so the trailer would be super sloped and look goofy unless you got a nice suspension for your trailer too. Which would actually be really really cool. An offroad trailer to compliment your Raptor. Oh the possibilities with Ford products, gotta love em Matt.
arturo 2:33PM (3/07/2009)
Is not like they are canceling the regular f150 you smart @#s. This is going to be a special edition vehicle just like the GT500.
Chiefstang 10:22AM (3/07/2009)
Wow, you are pathetic. The GT500 is a pig? Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.
Get a life, pig.
Matt 12:37PM (3/07/2009)
Wow Chief...you are really obsessed with me. For months you wanted me gone and now that I am, you can't leave me alone...
Too funny.
And yes, the GT500 (GT447 actually), is a PIG. I'm not quite sure why I am...I am not overweight, I am a clean person...your nonsensical ramblings are very confusing sometimes.
Matt 9:19PM (3/06/2009)
I'm not that Matt ^ but I really like this truck. I tried the simulation at the Dallas Auto Show and got the best time of the day. It was alot of fun. Keep up the good work Ford.
Reply
Trojan 1:04PM (3/07/2009)
You should change your name to "The Non-Retarded Matt".