Hennessey’s VelociRaptor 1200: American Excess on Four Wheels

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Hennessey’s VelociRaptor 1200: American Excess on Four Wheels

Hennessey Performance, a Texas-based tuner known for its extreme vehicle modifications, has unveiled the VelociRaptor 1200 F-250 – a limited-edition pickup truck designed to celebrate American independence with unapologetic power and style. The vehicle is a fitting example of how American automotive culture often prioritizes performance and spectacle.

The Numbers Don’t Lie… About Torque

The “1200” in the name isn’t a horsepower figure, but rather a reference to the truck’s impressive stock torque output of 1,200 lb-ft (1,626 Nm). This is a deliberate move by Hennessey to emphasize brute force over raw horsepower, a common theme in American truck culture. The engine itself is Ford’s 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8, already producing 500 hp in its standard configuration. While some might expect further power enhancements, the existing output is substantial enough for the vehicle’s intended purpose.

Lifted, Loud, and Loaded with Upgrades

To ensure the VelociRaptor 1200 can handle challenging terrain, Hennessey has equipped it with a five-inch BDS suspension lift, adjustable Fox 2.5 coilover shocks with remote reservoirs, and aggressive 37-inch off-road tires wrapped around 18-inch wheels. The truck’s standard front and rear bumpers have been replaced with heavy-duty steel units for improved durability and a more aggressive stance.

The exterior is further enhanced with carbon-fiber components – including hood vents, flared fenders, mirror caps, and a tailgate panel – primarily for aesthetic appeal rather than weight savings, given the truck’s overall mass. Other upgrades include upgraded LED fog lights, a massive 50-inch LED light bar, custom graphics, and power-deployable running boards with integrated LEDs.

A Cabin Fit for a Patriot

The interior features black leather and Alcantara seats with red contrast stitching, all-weather WeatherTech floor mats, and a numbered plaque commemorating the limited-edition run. Each plaque includes a full-color Stars and Stripes graphic, reinforcing the vehicle’s patriotic theme.

The Price of Excess

The VelociRaptor 1200 package adds $54,500 to the cost of a Ford F-250 Lariat, which starts at $63,035, bringing the total price to $117,535 before taxes and delivery fees. This represents a significant premium, but aligns with Hennessey’s reputation for high-performance, exclusive builds. The upgrades are available through select Ford dealerships and are backed by a three-year, 36,000-mile limited warranty.

The VelociRaptor 1200 F-250 isn’t a practical vehicle; it’s a statement. It caters to buyers who prioritize extreme performance, bold aesthetics, and a distinctly American approach to automotive excess.