Dearborn’s best showed they were intent on outright owning the Detroit Auto Show with the debut of their all-new carbon-fiber, EcoBoost Ford GT super-car.
One of three high-performance cars that were unveiled today, the new Ford GT picks up where the last one left off, but takes a new direction with the most powerful EcoBoost engine created to date.
At the heart of the new Ford GT is a mid-mounted next-generation 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 with over 600 horsepower. The engine is based on the same architecture currently found in Ford’s IMSA Daytona Prototype endurance race cars.
Notable is a new port and direct dual fuel-injection system which improves response and a low-friction roller-finger-follower valve-train. Power will be routed to the rear-wheels though an exclusive seven-speed dual-clutch trans-axle.
Making best use of that power, the GT has extensive use of lightweight materials in its construction including carbon fiber and aluminum. The passenger cell is constructed entirely of carbon fiber with aluminum front and rear sub-frames. Body panels are a combination of carbon-fiber and lightweight plastics.
While weight hasn’t been specified it’s expected to be significantly lighter than the last-generation GT. And Ford says it will have one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any production car.
Advanced aerodynamics include a deployable rear spoiler that behaves both depending on speed and driver inputs, adjusting both its height and pitch angle depending on aerodynamic needs.
Suspension is the latest generation active torsion bar and push-rod design with an adjustable ride height. 20” wheels come with custom Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tires designed specifically for the Ford GT. Carbon-ceramic brakes are mounted all around.
The cockpit is entered through upward-swinging doors, and features seats integrated directly into the carbon fiber passenger structure. Fixed seats reduce weight with adjustable pedals and steering column accommodating your fit.
Driver controls are simple with a Formula One style steering wheel where most switches are included along with paddle shifters. The steering column is without stalks, decluttering the work space. Directly ahead is a digital and configurable instrument cluster.
Beginning production late next year, likely as a 2017 model, the GT will be on sale only in select global markets to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the original Ford GT40 race cars.
We will have more detail and specifications when Ford releases the information. For now you can start playing the guessing game on both the price tag and the size of dealer addendums. The car will be a very limited-production model, which will only feed the beast.
