Ken Block has unveiled his latest Hoonmobile that will star in an a new instalment of his world-famous Gymkhana series.
After utilising a range of rally-bread Fiestas, Focuses and a wild methanol-fuelled 'Hoonicorn' Mustang in his viral Gymkhana videos, Block's latest build sees the American star go down a different avenue with an old pick-up truck. But while it may seem like an odd choice, Block had plenty of inspiration when it came time to create his newest tyre-shredding weapon.
Block selected the 1977 Ford F-150 as a tribute to his late father, who owned the same era of truck when he was a child. As well as the personal connection, the iconic Ford pick-up was also the car Block learned to drive in - and we assume that included lessons in burnouts and drifting as well.
But as with all of Block's creations, this isn't exactly a standard F-150.
Protruding out the engine bay are a pair of turbos that feed air back into a highly modified 3.5-litre Ecoboost V6 - the same unit found in Ford's Le Mans-winning GT LM racecar. But after all its modifications, the engine now produces 682kW (914hp) of power and 952Nm of torque. Power meets the ground through a Sadev six-speed gearbox and custom-built 20-inch wheels wrapped in Toyo rubber.
The body has been re-shelled with military-grade aluminium, ride-height lowered as far as possible and a large wing fitted in the rear that seems to be souced straight off a NASCAR Truck Series racers.
The presence of a tow bar and a reversing camera suggest Block's new new Hoonicorn could be in for a bit of hauling in the upcoming Gymkhana Ten video.
“This project has been in the works for about 2 years,” said Block. “I’m beyond pleased with how it turned out, it’s simply one of the most badass and unique vehicles I’ve seen in a long time and I think it compliments my Hoonicorn perfectly."
"It’s also crazy to be throwing something around that’s this size when doing Gymkhana-style driving. But, it looks absolutely wild on camera, and that was our goal from the start. I can’t wait for the fans to be able to see it in action, I think they’re gonna love it!”
Gymkhana Ten will debut on Amazon Prime on December 7 before hitting YouTube on the 17th. But those based in the states will be able to see the Hoonicorn when it appears at SEMA in a few weeks.
