Get ready for the newest American supercar!
The Ford GT/40 has been an American supercar icon since it was shocking the world by winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans back in the mid-1960s. The mid-engined supercar made a triumphant return in the early 2000s, but since then has been absent from the Ford model line. Today, at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, the all-new Ford GT shocked the world again, wearing a set of black rims, sporting a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine, active aerodynamics, and carbon fiber everywhere.
Unfortunately, the days of the massive V-8 engine are gone for the Ford GT. Instead, the automaker is powering the rear black rims with a new, next-generation EcoBoost V-6 engine that shares quite a few similarities including the architecture from its racing variants. The 3.5-liter, twin-turbocharged V-6 engine boasts a broad powerband and superb throttle response with an output pegged at over 600 horsepower. The engine utilizes a new port/direct fuel injection system along with a low-friction roller-finger-follower valvetrain, and is mated to a seven-speed transaxle dual-clutch gearbox, sending all 600+ ponies to the rear black rims.
Part of what makes the new Ford GT so impressive is its dedication to keeping weight to a minimum. Ford utilized new lightweight aluminum and carbon fiber throughout the chassis, body, and construction to drop as many pounds as possible. The passenger shell is made entirely from carbon fiber while aluminum subframes are integrated into carbon fiber body panels to help it achieve an impressive power-to-weight ratio for better overall performance. Even the new and are made from carbon fiber and shed 50 lbs. total while hiding carbon ceramic brakes. The new wheels wear specially-developed Michelin Pilot Super Sport PS2 tries to ensure maximum traction and grip.
Aerodynamics also played a key role in the development and design of the Ford GT. The entire body was shaped to keep drag to a minimum while downforce and stability was a priority. An active rear spoiler adjusts continuously to driver input with its height and pitch angle to improve stopping power, handling, and stability. A narrow canopy and curved windshield provide better visibility for divers while upward-swinging doors allow for easier access.
Inside, both of the seats are mounted directly to the carbon fiber shell, while the pedals and steering wheel can be adjusted to suit different sized drivers. High-tech, fully-digital gauges can be configured to display a variety of information in different modes while an F1-style steering wheel with numerous controls and shifters gives drivers easy access.
The new Ford GT and its EcoBoost engine, active aerodynamics, black rims, and carbon fiber will be on display at the NAIAS in Detroit and will enter production in 2016.
Source: Ford
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