There were a lot of parties against the Cash for Clunkers program, especially in the automotive aftermarket. The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) fought the bill arguing it would take too many good vehicles off the road and hurt the aftermarket. Without opening up the debate or arguing one side or the other too much, we were happy to see the program work for the off-road crowd. Reader  sent us an e-mail talking about how Cash for Clunkers worked for him in getting a new SVT Ford Raptor (below left). Here’s what he said:

Friday I took delivery of the first Ford Raptor in California. Every November I travel to Baja to help Wide Open Baja chase for their teams for the infamous Baja 1000. This race version and the chase version were premiered at the Horse Power Ranch. When I saw this, I knew this would be my next truck. July 1 I met with the Dean Nissen of Ken Grody Ford, the number two Ford dealer in California and ordered the truck. Friday I got the call and brought down my 1997 F 150 4x4 with 214,000 miles (right) and traded it in under the "Cash For Clunkers" plan. This truck exceeds the hype and I couldn't be happier.

Off-Road.com recently had the opportunity to test-drive the new Ford Raptor in the Anza-Borrego desert – where much of the testing for the vehicle occurred. We’ll have that story up later this week. For now, enjoy Robin’s success story in getting his new truck.