American automotive brand Ford has unveiled the ultra-lightweight Ford GT Competition Series 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 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.
The Competition Series also looks the part with unique gloss carbon fiber stripe, mirror caps and A-pillars, as well as exposed carbon fiber lower body trim in matching gloss finish. Inside, the Competition Series maintains the lightweight interior and keeps the same driver-centric elements of other models, including the F1-styled steering wheel with key functional controls.
The cabin gets more exposed carbon fiber and Alcantara suede with red accents. Anodized red paddle shifters and instrument panel badge bring accent color to the cabin, while a unique center console plate and steering wheel fascia account for the deleted infotainment controls and screen. The supercar will be sold in six colors, black, white, silver, blue, gray, and yellow.
all images courtesy of Ford