Shelby Mustang Mach-E GT, Shelby’s first production electric vehicle
The reputation of Shelby is no longer to be done, everyone knows the brand because of the unique models it has produced over the past decades, in addition to starring in the film Ford v Ferrari in 2019. The preparer specializes mainly in the creation of high-performance vehicles based on Ford vehicles, many have undoubtedly dreamed of owning a Mustang modified by Shelby’s care.
Say hello to Shelby Mustang Mach-E GT, the first electric vehicle produced by the American firm. Attention, do not get too carried away since Shelby announced that only 100 copies will be sold, but all are reserved for the European market. It’s a strange move on Shelby’s part, especially considering the automaker’s American roots. The latter defends his decision by mentioning that the European market is much more open to electric vehicles, and that the charging infrastructure is much better developed there.
Ford Mach-E GT basics
Built to honor the 100e anniversary of the brand’s late founder, Caroll Shelby, the Shelby Mustang Mach-E GT uses the foundations of the brand’s electric SUV, Shelby then grafted it with a set of components that mainly enhance its visual appearance and slightly improve its performance and its road holding. It is above all a cosmetic operation.
The vehicle benefits in particular from a plethora of carbon fiber components including the entire hood, forged aluminum rims, one-piece, exclusive and lighter – 1.8 kilo (4 pounds) – as well as a series of stickers and of Shelby emblems.
No other mechanical changes were made, only the suspension was reworked. It has been lowered to lower the vehicle’s center of gravity and give it more poise. The weight reduction operation also helps improve performance and stability at higher speeds.
100 sets will be offered, and each can be fitted to Ford Mustang Mach-E GTs from model year 2021 to 2023. The set can also be added directly in dealerships at authorized European American Shelby retailers, the set is sold at the price of 24,900 euros, or just over $37,000 Canadian.
“In 2021, we introduced a Shelby concept version of the Ford Mustang Mach-E to gauge public interest,” said Gary Patterson, president of Shelby American. “The reaction has been very positive, especially from international enthusiasts. We developed our first production version of the vehicle based on this response. The Shelby Mustang Mach-E GT expands our menu of options with an electric vehicle for European enthusiasts.
Conclusion
This is a first step towards the arrival of electric models from legendary preparers like Shelby. For its price, it’s disappointing that the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT doesn’t offer truly enhanced performance.