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Ford explains Formula E snub after launching Dakar Rally project

Ford will continue to steer clear of Formula E amid the significant expansion of its global motorsport programme.

The brand has just announced another fully-fledged factory racing programme, with at least a two-year commitment to a Dakar Rally programme using the Ford Ranger.

That joins the growing list of Ford Performance programmes around the world, headlined by the impending entry to Formula 1 with Red Bull in 2026.

There are also factory programmes in NASCAR, Supercars and, as of next year, customer GT racing with the Mustang GT3 and GT4 cars. 

But while full-electrification is one of the pillars of the Ford Performance philosophy, there are no plans for an electric racing programme.

Speaking to media during the Dakar announcement, Ford Performance boss Mark Rushbrook said the brand would instead focus on its 'demonstrator' vehicles to showcase its prowess in electrification.

They include the Ford Mustang Mach-E 1400, the Cobra Jet 1400 drag car, and the SuperVan 4. 

"Where we don't have the opportunity to race in what we think is a good or relevant full electric series, we take advantage of those demonstrators," said Rushbrook. 

"[There are] no rules. They are rolling innovation labs that allow us to learn about high-performance, full-electric vehicles, and take that learning back to our road car programmes and also to take that electrified learning over to Formula 1."

Source: Autosport

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