It’s only been a couple of weeks since Ford announced that its Ranger Raptor was coming to the North American market for the first time since debuting overseas in 2018. And now, Hennessey Performance Engineering has already found a way to make the powerful mid-size pickup truck even more powerful, blessing the 4×4 with its signature upgrade package called the VelociRaptor 500.
The performance-focused trim version of the 2024 model was billed as the “most powerful and high-performance” Ranger ever, with a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine boasting 405hp, 430lb.ft of torque, and extra focus on off-road capability. The Ranger itself only returned to the U.S. in 2019 after a nine-year absence when Ford decided to focus on its F-Series trucks instead. Looking to give its customers a lighter alternative to its full-size VelociRaptor 600 F-150, Hennessey didn’t waste any time making the “most powerful midsize pickup” on the market today.
In order to enhance the stock twin-turbocharged V6, the Texas-based firm gave it a new high-flow air induction system, a larger front-mounted intercooler, and an engine management software upgrade. The result is a new output of 500bhp (about 507hp) and 550lb.ft of torque. The boosted performance gives even better results for those looking to take the Ranger Raptor off-grid, building on the 10-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive system, locking front and rear differentials, Fox 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks, active exhaust system, and an impressive nine driving modes from the Ford factory. While the interior of the VelociRaptor 500 will feature embroidered Hennessey head restraints and a build number plaque, the exterior will be given special bumpers, LED off-road lights, Hennessey 18-inch alloy wheels, 35-inch off-road tires, and special badging.
For those ready to get their hands on the VelociRaptor 500 upgrade package, they’ll have to wait until Q4 of this year for shipment. You can pre-order it now from Hennessey’s website, where it’s priced from $24,950.
