August 28, 2024
SEVEN CAR LOUNGEFord Mustang Mach-E Rally
Ford has introduced the Mustang Mach-E Rally, a special edition of the electric SUV featuring rally-inspired aesthetics and several chassis upgrades, allowing it to be relished both on and off the beaten path. The exciting news is that this is not merely a concept or a pricey rally car, but rather a street-legal production model that will be available to consumers in 2024.
The updated front splitter, recovery point, black-painted steel roof, massive rear wing that looks like it belongs on the defunct Focus RS, and a reworked fascia with fog lights hidden behind the covered grille are the main visual features of the new Mach E The color pallet, which is completed by the traditional racing stripes on the bonnet and rear, also includes Grabber Blue, Shadow Black, Eruption Green, Star White, and Glacier Gray in addition to the Grabber Yellow seen.
The most noticeable aspect of the visual upgrades is the new set of white-gloss 19-inch alloy rims. The rally-inspired alloys are fitted with beefier Michelin CrossClimate2 all-season rubber, which provides greater traction on rougher terrains. Furthermore, the suspension rests 20 mm (0.8 inches) higher compared to the Mach-E GT, coming with specially tuned springs and MagneRide shocks. The EV was designed for gravel and unpaved roads, so Ford engineers equipped the dual electric motors with protective shielding. The cladding on the doors and wheel arches is protected by a protective film, and mud shields are available as an option.
The electric drivetrain is also derived from the Mach-E GT, though it has been modified. The dual electric motors will produce "at least" 480 hp (358 kW / 487 PS) and 880 Nm (649 lb-ft) of torque, according to Ford, which did not disclose the exact performance figures. In addition, the EV will feature a new RallySport Drive Mode that is intended to permit "larger slides" in off-road environments by providing a "linear throttle response" and "more aggressive damping." The front brakes are equipped with 385 mm (15.2 inch) discs and red Brembo calipers.
The interior of the new Mach-E may be inspired by Ford's glory days in the World Rally Championship, but it is far from spartan as it retains all of the standard EV's amenities. A pair of performance seats with Mach-E Rally lettering, contrasting stitching, and gloss white accents on the dashboard, door cards, and steering wheel that match the new wheels are among the interior's special details.
Ford says that people in the US and Europe will be able to order the Mustang Mach-E Rally this fall. Even though they look like they could be the base for the new Rally trim, we'll have to wait!