PRETORIA, South Africa, 2 May 2023: The Ford oval and the well-known Shelby model could have a big presence at this yr’s Simola Hillclimb as they set their sights on tackling their respective classes in a wide range of high-performance equipment.
New Ford Ranger Raptor takes on the problem
The not too long ago launched Next-Generation Ranger Raptor is ready to be a spotlight at this yr’s occasion because it proves that it’s equally succesful and exhilarating on-road as it’s off-road. The strongest customary manufacturing bakkie in South Africa is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 EcoBoost engine punching out 292kW and 583Nm. The Raptor’s efficiency is additional enhanced by its bespoke suspension with Ford Performance-developed FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve inside bypass shock absorbers, a wider monitor, seven selectable drive modes, in addition to selectable settings for steering response to optimise efficiency in all areas.
The Ranger Raptor will probably be within the very proficient palms of famend South African racing driver Anthony Taylor. Taylor brings intensive circuit and off-road expertise to the occasion, which makes him the proper option to showcase the Raptor’s breadth of talents.
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“Simola Hillclimb is the ideal setting for motorsport fans to see and hear the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor racing up the hill.”
“Entering a completely standard version of the Ranger Raptor at one of the country’s most prestigious motorsport events will be a testament to its capability and Ford Performance DNA. We thank Anthony for joining the team for this event, and we are confident he will set a new bakkie benchmark for the class, while entertaining fans over the weekend.”
Minesh Bhagaloo, Director for Communications at Ford South Africa
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Shelby is again
The motion doesn’t cease there, with a pantheon of Shelby automobiles hoping to repeat the success they loved in 2022. Lindenberg Racing has competed within the Simola Hillclimb because the occasion’s inception, with Shelby South Africa making its debut in 2016. This yr Shelby isn’t holding something again with a complete of 9 automobiles representing their biggest participation to this point.
The acquainted favourites competing in Classic Car Friday will embody Paige Lindenberg’s 1968 Ford Fairlane and two Shelby Cobra Daytonas piloted by James Temple and Clayton Kimber. These icons of motorsport historical past are proudly constructed at Hi-Tec Automotive in Gqeberha, and are extremely wanted by automobile collectors from all over the world.
Underneath the smooth aerodynamic bodywork of Temple’s automobile is a strong 5.8-litre (358 cubic inch) Ford V8 engine able to 390kW, whereas Kimber’s Daytona Coupé makes related energy from its bigger 7.0-litre (427 cubic inch) V8. A Cobra from that very same period will spherical up the sector for Classic Car Friday.
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Team Shelby’s trendy muscle automobile ensemble that will probably be competing within the King of the Hill problem on Saturday and Sunday is equally various with the Shelby Terlingua (named after the Terlingua Racing Team) prepared for battle, with Paige behind the wheel. The Shelby Terlingua’s supercharged V8 is rated at 626kW with the remainder of the bundle comprising Brembo brakes, stiffer sway bars, adjustable coilover suspension in addition to upgraded cooling.
A trio of Shelby Super Snake Mustangs will probably be becoming a member of the motion, pushed by, James Temple, Jonty Needham and Anton Pommersheim. There will even be Joshua O’Callaghan’s limited-edition Mustang Mach 1 which pays tribute to the unique, iconic 1969 Mustang Mach 1.
“We are proud to race what we sell, and we are so pleased that our Shelby clients get to take part in the Hillclimb and live the Shelby lifestyle with us.”
Paige Lindenberg, GM of Shelby South Africa
Now in its thirteenth yr, the Simola Hillclimb takes place from 5 to 7 May 2023.
Published by Ford South Africa on Quickpic
For extra previews and evaluations of the 2023 Simola Hillclimb, observe our motorsport web page.
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