by Jim Farley’s Idea for a 1000 HP Off-Roader
Ford CEO Jim Farley has expressed interest in creating a 1000 horsepower supercar off-roader. He hinted that such a vehicle could be electrified and truly capable of off-road competition. The executive also noted that the model would be fully customizable and would not be a pickup truck.
Comparison with Existing Models
The Ford Bronco Raptor is considered one of the coolest off-roaders on the market, equipped with a bi-turbo 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine producing 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. However, these figures look modest compared to the Jeep Wrangler 392, which has a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine producing 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.
A Potential Breakthrough from Ford
Ford could take a radical step and create an incredible off-roader priced around $300,000, inspired by Dakar rally participants. Although the idea seems crazy, the success of the Mustang GTD suggests that the manufacturer could replicate this approach in various formats.
Jim Farley stated: “There is no Porsche in the world of off-roaders, and I am shocked that people don’t think about this.”
Criticism of Competitors and the Uniqueness of the Idea
Farley claims that no one has yet created a true supercar off-roader, despite the existence of the Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato. He dismisses that model, claiming it would not withstand the Baja 500 race.
Technical Features of the Future Vehicle
The executive described a possible 1000 HP supercar, partially electrified, with fully adjustable suspension, damping, and ground clearance. He emphasized that it is not a pickup truck but a vehicle capable of participating in off-road races. It is about a high-speed supercar for dirt, sand, and mud, but not for rock crawling. Farley is also discussing with his team whether it should be a two-seater or a four-seater vehicle.
Ford Brand Strategy
Farley emphasized that Ford is a “weird brand” that successfully sells both affordable cars and expensive models like the $120,000 F-150 Raptor R. Regarding the Mustang GTD, he explained that the brand can afford such projects thanks to its history in motorsports, which gives them the right to do what other manufacturers cannot.
Sales Philosophy for Exclusive Models
In the context of the GTD, Farley stated that the brand does not want to see “posers” or collectors who simply put the car in a garage. He expressed a desire to avoid overproduction or market speculation to protect the interests of buyers. If owners truly love the car and do not lose money on it, they will likely be willing to buy Ford’s next special models. This has already been observed among Ford GT buyers who also purchased the Mustang GTD.
Although a decision has not yet been made, Farley noted that he is “thinking very seriously about this,” and such ideas usually turn into real projects. He also believes that modern supercars are too similar, and this initiative could be a way to diversify the market.
The idea of creating a powerful supercar off-roader could open a new segment for Ford, combining high performance with the capability for extreme use. It also highlights the growing trend towards electrification even in niches traditionally associated with internal combustion engines. The success of similar projects, like the Mustang GTD, shows that the market is ready for innovations that combine the brand’s history with modern technology.
