“It’s because we can,” says John Hennessey, founder and CEO of Hennessey Performance (HPE). That’s the answer presented when asked why anybody would want to have a six-wheel-drive Ford Raptor pick-up truck with 600 hp, and we’re not inclined to argue with that.

Hennessey is of course referring to his company’s latest creation, the VelociRaptor 6×6, which is essentially a heavily-modified Ford F-150 Raptor. Here, the man himself takes you on a guided tour of the six-wheeler, before proceeding to take it out on the road.

If you have US$349,000 (RM1,463,357) to spare, you can pick up one of the 50 examples of the VelociRaptor 6×6 that the company will make. Each will include 6×6 locking rear axles, upgraded suspension, 20-inch wheels wrapped in Toyo off-road tyres, unique front and rear bumpers, a roll bar and LED lights. For a little extra, there’s also the option of twin-turbo upgrade package, which bumps the 3.5 litre EcoBoost’s output to over 600 hp.

Also available is an optional Brembo brake system upgrade is also offered for an additional US$22,000 (RM93,125). The system includes six-piston calipers and new rotors to ensure the big truck stops better.

Hennessey says most VelociRaptor 6×6 customers would probably just park it outside a fancy restaurant, and is fine with that. However, the six-wheeler is capable of a whole lot more than just attracting attention, and will easily handle most off-road terrain with ease in a manner akin to a military vehicle.

GALLERY: Hennessey VelociRaptor 6×6