Title: British Firm Converts Classic Ford Mustang to Electric Power at Four Times the Price of Mach-E
Introduction:
A renowned British racing team, Alan Mann Racing (AMR), recently unveiled its modern adaptation of the legendary Ford Mustang. The firm, famous for securing the Mustang’s first motorsport victory in the 1960s, has transformed the classic muscle car into an electric powerhouse. However, this remarkable conversion comes with a hefty price tag, roughly four times the cost of the new Ford Mustang Mach-E.
In-Depth Article:
1. The Legacy of Alan Mann Racing:
Alan Mann Racing, recognized as the factory-backed Ford racing team in the UK during the 1960s, played a pivotal role in the Mustang’s racing success. Known for their iconic red and gold color scheme, they competed in various touring car races and road rallies, achieving significant wins. Notably, they were responsible for introducing the Mustang to victory in the 1964 ‘Tour de France’ road race, marking the model’s first triumph in global motorsport events.
2. Modernizing the Mustang:
Continuing the legacy of Alan Mann Racing, Henry and Tom, the sons of the founder, revealed their latest creation, the ‘ePower Mustang.’ Based on a 1965 Ford Mustang Coupe, this electric-powered pony car underwent a meticulous nut-and-bolt restoration, accompanied by chassis upgrades to accommodate its silent source of power.
3. Enhanced Performance and Handling:
The ePower Mustang’s electric motor boasts an impressive 300bhp (224kW), surpassing the power output of its classic V8 predecessors. With this enhanced performance, the electric Mustang accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of 156km/h. Additionally, the car offers a range of 350km and supports AC and DC charging, boasting a recharge time of 40 minutes for 20-80% battery levels.
4. Suspension and Brake Upgrades:
To ensure optimal handling, the classic Mustang’s front strut and rear leaf-spring suspension setups have been replaced with billet aluminum independent double wishbones. Moreover, the 1960s brakes have been upgraded with modern, larger calipers and rotors, featuring regenerative braking technology from the electric motor.
5. Interior Refinements:
While the ePower Mustang embraces modern enhancements, it retains the charm and nostalgia of the 1960s with its refreshed dashboard and bucket seats. The inclusion of a small infotainment screen adds a touch of contemporary convenience without compromising the vintage feel.
6. The Cost of Electric Conversion:
Despite the undeniable allure of transforming a classic Mustang into an electric marvel, the bespoke service offered by Alan Mann Racing comes with a notable price tag. The conversion, priced at £200,000 ($AU384,000), is nearly four times the cost of the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT in Australia.
Conclusion:
The unveiling of the ePower Mustang by Alan Mann Racing showcases the potential to combine automotive history with innovative electric technology. However, the extravagant price of this unique conversion raises questions regarding the feasibility and viability of such projects. As the automotive industry transitions towards electric mobility, the debate surrounding whether to preserve the heritage of classic cars or embrace the benefits of electric power continues.