Bangkok, Thailand, 7 August 2024 – Ford Thailand proudly announces its sponsorship of the Feeliq Innovation Motorsport team, sending two Ford Ranger Raptors to race at the Asia Cross Country Rally 2024. Enlisting seasoned racers, Ford is showcasing the vehicle’s positioning ‘You Can’t Fake Tough’ and Ford Performance DNA as they compete for victory on the challenging route from Surat Thani to Kanchanaburi during August 12-17, 2024.
This year, Ford and Feeliq Innovation Motorsport have collaboratively developed two Ford Ranger Raptor race vehicles, numbered #118 and #131, to race in the same T2A or Production Asia class, designated for Asian factory-produced vehicles. The racing team is spearheaded by Michael Freeman, a seasoned circuit racing team director, and Chaiya Chommalee, an accomplished rally navigator. The duo, who previously competed together last year, will be at the helm of the Ford Ranger Raptor #118 for this event.
The team also unveils another race car, Ford Ranger Raptor #131, driven by rally ace Wuttichai Sorndaeng, the Royal Cup champion known for his seasoned skills. The racer partners with navigator Charin Harnsungnoen, who brings over three decades of engineering capability and racing experience to the cockpit, forming a formidable duo for the challenging course ahead.
“This year, we come with determination and experiences from last year,” said Michael Freeman. “We are confident that the performance of the two Ford Ranger Raptors and the performance of these two skilled racers will enable Ford and Feeliq Innovation Motorsport team to excellently conquer this year’s challenging route.”
The Ranger Raptor race vehicles have been developed to be tougher than ever, focusing on improving traction control, durability, and responsiveness to rugged terrains. The racing team and engineers from Ford’s plants in Thailand have synergized their outstanding expertise in the development process, in which the knowledge and skill from Ford Performance team have been also transferred. The race team also boosts up its readiness in spare parts and maintenance with professional technicians teams and Ford’s Mobile Service Vehicle to provide timely services and ensure that both race vehicles overcome all challenging terrains throughout the racecourse.
“Entering the Asia Cross Country Rally 2024 for the second year with two Ford Ranger Raptors demonstrates our commitment to developing motorsport potential and our confidence in the performance of Ford’s tough pickup trucks,” said Ratthakarn Jutasen, managing director, Ford Thailand. “Moreover, this is a great opportunity for us to showcase the superior durability and high performance of Ford Ranger Raptor to Ford customers, fans of rally and off-road competitions.”
# # #
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and
always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough electric vehicles along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford is pursuing mobility solutions through Ford Next, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 175,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.