Midsize Raptor That Somehow Reached the West
Despite the global nature of the automotive industry, certain models are still sold only in a specific region. This is done to spread production costs more efficiently. A slight downside to this is that if the region-specific model is so good, jealousy arises from those who don't have it.
That is the case with the Ford Ranger Raptor, primarily built for the Asian regions to satisfy the performance pickup segment without the need to import the big-dog Raptor at a huge price. It became such a hit that it eventually made its way to America and Europe.
Muted Models in Europe
As we all know, America and Europe have very discerning and demanding customers, and the Raptor quickly became a hit in both territories. However, those in Europe find that the V6 engine lacks the necessary oomph. In America, the V6 makes 400 hp, while in Europe it makes only 292 hp. This is mainly due to filters to pass the more stringent emission standards in the Old Continent.
This is where ZeroNine Design comes in. The tuning company is based in the UK and specializes in enhancing the performance of Ford models. Their latest project was to unleash more power from the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 of the midsize Raptor. ZeroNine was able to eke out around 100 more hp, bumping it up to 390 hp, almost matching the American spec. ZeroNine claims this modification improves Ranger Raptor's drivability, unlocking its true potential.
Proper, Non-Intrusive Modification
Of note, ZeroNine's modification is actually non-intrusive (which is a plus), almost like an over-the-air update. According to the company, it only requires an OBD port and an app to perform the power upgrade. It can even be controlled in such a way that, should you want to retain standard power, you can, and can call upon the 100 hp extra when you feel like it.
Those interested in this will be happy to know that the software upgrade was released only after extensive durability testing and is offered for Raptor models from 2022 onwards. The cost is 541.66 pounds, or around $722 with the current exchange rates. Not bad for a highly effective non-intrusive power upgrade.
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