The first Ford GT's are being delivered to their customers, but Ford has more in store! Ford is showing the ultra-lightweight Ford GT Competition Series for North America in Daytona, the site of its win at the Rolex 24 in January. The Ford GT Competition Series was engineered to build on the car’s innovative lightweight and aerodynamic design. The track fans’ ultimate production car removes weight higher in the vehicle and shifts the center of gravity closer to the track for even better road-holding, and to maximize its 647 horsepower engine.
“The Ford GT has racing in its blood,” said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, global product development, and chief technical officer. “The Competition Series was developed with the most hardcore track enthusiasts in mind, providing a tailored set of lightweight features and unique livery to match.” For example, the innovative lightweight, race-inspired Perspex® acrylic engine hatch cover with manual latch and carbon fiber prop rod reduces weight near the roof and shifts the balance of weight lower in the car. Similarly, the bulkhead Gorilla Glass® behind the driver is about half as thick – and lighter – as on other models.
All performance features from the standard production car remain, including the FIA-certified steel roll cage and active aerodynamic system. Items not essential to performance – including air conditioning, radio and speakers, stowage bins and cupholders – are eliminated. Weight-reducing optional equipment – such as performance-enhancing carbon fiber wheels, and titanium lug nuts and exhaust – are standard on the Competition Series.
