The Texas-based hypercar manufacturer and high-performance vehicle creator Hennessey has announced the details surrounding the development and engineering for the new ‘VelociRaptor 500’ Ranger. Why the name? Using the new 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, which debuted on the 10th of May, it has been given an increased factory horsepower output of 20% meaning this version has 500bhp.

At the recent Salon Privé event in London, we witnessed the latest Venom F5 Roadster from Hennessey with a staggering 1817bhp and it seems that it has been their mission since inception over 30 years to, in their words, ‘make faster cars faster’. Here is no different. The brand has taken something standard and added speed and power in abundance. The pickup’s twin-turbocharged 3.0 litre V6 engine that produces 405bhp and 430lb-ft of torque in stock configuration has been given a massive boost thanks to a new high-flow air induction system, larger front-mounted intercooler and engine management software upgrade. This means that output is now bulked up to 500bhp and 550 lb-ft of torque.

Custom VelociRaptor bumpers, LED off-road lights, unique 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, 35-inch off-road tyres and ‘VelociRaptor 500’ are some more of the touches that Hennessey will put on the pickup truck. Moving inside, the Texans will put their stamp on proceedings further with embroidered head restraints, all-weather floor mats and plaque showing the build number.

Pricing on this upgraded package is confirmed at $24,950 on top of the truck’s $56,960 starting price, with production beginning later this year. Hennessey believes this will be the most powerful warrantied midsized pickup truck available in the automotive world today.

The new VelociRaptor 500 Ranger will now go through rigorous testing at the company’s HQ, private test track and in extreme conditions off-road before being given to customers in late 2024.

Words: Mike Booth
Pictures: Hennessey