The King of the Hammers Ultra4 off-road races are taking place in Johnson Valley, California, and Ford is returning to their victory. Last year, they enjoyed an unprecedented sweep of the competition, taking all three places on the podium in the 4600 stock class Every Man Challenge. Additionally, this year they will be competing in the 4400 Unlimited class.
Widely regarded as the toughest one-day off-road racing series in the country, the King of the Hammers races will be held from February 2nd to 11th of this year, beginning the Ultra4 Off-Road Racing season and marking the 17th anniversary of the event. Its intense challenges provide the perfect opportunity to show off cutting edge off-road technologies and tenacious drivers.
“From the Baja 1000 to Best In The Desert, off-road racing is just as much part of Ford’s DNA as track, endurance and rally competition,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director, Ford Performance Motorsports. “King of the Hammers inspires us to ensure every Bronco delivers the capability, durability and high-speed off-road experience our customers expect on the trail, and it led directly to Bronco Raptor, the world’s first Ultra4-inspired SUV.”
King of the Hammers lives up to its reputation as one of the most extreme off-road competitions in the world by presenting a diverse range of challenging conditions, from 90-mile courses across high-speed desert sands to rock crawling across punishing terrain. 80,000 spectators are expected to attend the event in Johnson Valley while millions more watch online.
Ford vehicles will be out in force at this year’s race. The Every Man Challenge features Bronco 4600s, modified from stock production Broncos at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant to align to race class specifications. Custom-built Bronco 4400 vehicles featuring tubular chassis, powerful engines and massive tires will also be making appearances, utilizing live valve shock technology that can also be found on the Bronco Raptor.
Several Ford Performance hero vehicles will be displayed for fans to view, such as the 2019 Bronco R race prototype, 2022 Baja 1000-winning Ranger Raptor, three-in-a-row Rebelle Rally-winning Bronco Sport, and more Bronco vehicles and treats for enthusiasts.
This is also Ford’s third consecutive year collaborating with King of the Hammers. “Having Ford as both our official vehicle and a proven competitor in the Every Man Challenge and Race of Kings is as meaningful to our fans as it is to watch racing,” said David Cole, president, Hammerking Productions/Ultra4 Racing.
This is sure to be an event full of exciting moments for Ford fans and Bronco lovers. If you’re interested in learning more about the 2023 Bronco, you can get more information with Dunphy Ford!
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