There’s an old expression that goes along the lines of, “those who can’t do, teach.” If the information we’re sharing here today is any indication, this expression deserves to be tossed out of the window entirely.
For those who are on the outside of the worlds of off-roading or high-octane performance looking in, there are feelings of curiosity and a yearning to defy the odds and become one with this world. But for the men and women who partake in these, these are not seen as activities but lifestyles. Perhaps on a recent trip to a Ford dealer, some vehicles caught your eye and piqued your interest in following the road less traveled. Ford is giving you the opportunity not only to walk on the wild side, but also teach you what you need to know to master the skills you need for driving on or off the beaten path.
Off-Road Lessons in a Bucking Bronco Raptor
When the Ford Bronco was resurrected, a tidal wave of enthusiasm could be felt from the throngs of masses who were all too eager to get behind the wheel of one. The original Bronco had been one of the building blocks for what would eventually become the popularization of the SUV that we’re familiar with today. This new incarnation of the Bronco held true to the old designs of the past while implementing a modern aesthetic. For those who want to experience the world of off-roading in a bold and exciting new way, the Bronco Raptor was specifically designed for the most rugged terrain that lacks pavement.
No matter what your level of experience might be, you have a chance to learn all of the basics and master all of the Bronco Raptor’s unique driving modes in what Ford calls the Bronco Off-Roadeo Experience. Taking place in Las Vegas, this all-inclusive event includes racing, navigating dunes, and climbing rocks.
Even better, that this experience is included with the purchase of a 2022 or 2023 Ford Bronco Raptor. Ford offers this to enable drivers to acclimate to the outdoor surroundings that the Bronco is known for navigating, because where you’re going, you won’t need roads.
Taking the SUV To New Heights
The emergence of the Ford Bronco several years ago certainly helped pave the way for what the modern SUV would evolve into, which is far from its rough and ready off-road roots. To illustrate this point, we now have two SUVs that are specifically made for high performance, the Ford Edge ST and Ford Explorer ST. The Edge is a relative newcomer to the game, but the Explorer was way ahead of its time, helping to formulate both the accessibility and popularity of the SUV itself during its early incarnations. The ST versions of both these vehicles are certainly a testament to Ford’s reputation for finding new ways to explore high performance.
On the Edge of Your Seat
The Ford Edge ST sits at the very top of the available trims for this vehicle. Equipped with AWD, drivers have the choice of embarking off the pavement or utilizing the vehicle’s performance on the blacktop. A twin-turbo V6 boasts 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. If you’ve recently purchased one, Ford is granting a masterclass that will allow you to take the wheel and exert maximum control over your destiny.
Exploring New Frontiers
Few SUVs have the acclaim and lineage that the Ford Explorer can lay claim to. Debuting far ahead of the SUV boom, the vehicle has been the flagship SUV for the blue brand since its iconic debut years ago. The ST version of the Explorer operates with RWD, unlike the Edge’s AWD drivetrain. A twin-turbo V6 propels the Ford Explorer ST, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. A smooth ride is guaranteed thanks to the vehicle’s ten-speed automatic transmission. The Explorer ST program will be held at the same locations as the Edge program.
The ST Experience
The ST Experience for the Ford Edge ST is held in two distinct locations: Park City, Utah, and Asheville, North Carolina. This allows Edge owners on both coasts to partake in the experience. The Ford Performance Racing School will conduct both programs. You’ll be gifted the knowledge and expertise of individuals who make it their business to understand everything about high performance.
Drivers who attend the event in Park City will have the luxury of experiencing one of the country’s best mountain towns. In this setting, you’ll learn the intricacies of handling high-performance scenarios, such as oversteer, and how to utilize the vehicle’s driving assistance and safety features when operating at high speeds. Attendance at the Asheville event will not only grant drivers an immersive driving experience unlike any other, but you’ll be able to experience some of the finest American architecture as you’ll have access to the world-famous Biltmore estate.
Suppose you’re looking to enhance the ST experience and take it to the absolute maximum. Drivers who attend the Asheville location will have the chance to upgrade their lessons to the Charlotte Motor Speedway. This one-day program, conducted by the staff of the Ford Performance Racing School, will include several fundamentals that are necessary to the world of high performance. Many of these are focused on maintaining control of the vehicle at high speeds, such as cornering, braking while downshifting, heel and toe braking techniques, and the basic fundamentals of operating on a race track.
Ford Performance Racing School
To truly become a master of performance and learn the tricks of the trade, the Ford Performance Racing School offers a variety of programs that can equip you with the necessary skills. If you’re looking to go full throttle, then one of these programs will be perfect for you.
One-Day Program
This might be a one-day event, but the experience you’ll gain will be priceless. Similar to what’s offered in the available upgrade for the ST program, the all-day event covers all of the fundamentals that we previously covered and how to put them to good use. You’ll be in the cockpit of a 2015 Ford Mustang GT with 435 horsepower, which means you’ll be able to put the pedal to the metal.
Two-Day Program
If you’re looking for a program that will allow you to not only improve your skills behind the wheel but also spend more time on the track, the two-day program is a great way to jumpstart your career in motorsports. You’ll learn more advanced skills and how to implement them at higher rates of speed. The second day is primarily focused on the racetrack, which will enhance your skills and provide you with an in-depth learning experience.
An Experience of a Lifetime
Whether you’re focused on enhancing your skills in the world of high-performance driving or off-roading, Ford is offering anyone the opportunity to master their craft and take their abilities to the absolute limit. Making these programs available to the public means that higher education in higher-octane activities that fuel adrenaline are more accessible than ever. If you’ve always wanted to live in the fast lane or off the blacktop, you now have the opportunity of a lifetime.
