The future of iconic American pony cars is uncertain, as both the Chevrolet Camaro and the current-generation Dodge Challenger are nearing their end. However, the Ford Mustang is set to continue as Detroit’s sole pony car for the foreseeable future. In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Ford CEO Jim Farley hinted at the potential for a partially electrified Mustang coupe in the next 10 years.
While Farley dismissed the idea of a fully electric Mustang coupe, he acknowledged the possibility of a partially electrified version that would be world-class. This statement has sparked speculation about whether Ford will introduce a hybrid or all-electric Mustang in the future. However, Ford has remained tight-lipped on the subject, refusing to comment on any speculation regarding future products.
Rumors of an electrified Mustang coupe have circulated for some time, and Ford has already developed several battery-electric prototypes. Earlier this year, the Mustang Super Cobra Jet 1800 debuted as a dedicated drag racing machine with a whopping 1,800 horsepower. Additionally, the Mustang Lithium EV, showcased at SEMA in 2019, featured a single-motor powertrain generating 900 hp and paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
Despite these prototypes, the current Ford Mustang lineup remains purely internal combustion. To emphasize this, Ford recently unveiled the GTD, its most powerful and expensive production Mustang ever. The GTD is a road-legal version of the Mustang GT3 race car, boasting a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine with over 800 hp and a rear-mounted transaxle for optimal weight distribution. Production of the GTD will be extremely limited, with prices starting at $300,000 and interested buyers required to go through an application process similar to that of the Ford GT.
In conclusion, while the future of pony cars like the Camaro and Challenger remains uncertain, the Ford Mustang is set to soldier on as the sole pony car from Detroit. While a fully electric Mustang coupe seems unlikely, a partially electrified version in the next decade is a possibility that Ford executives will discuss. Until then, Ford continues to prioritize internal combustion, as demonstrated by the powerful and exclusive GTD model.