Pre-approved customers can now order the Carbon Series, which is the lightest GT ever.
After a slow start to the second-generation Ford GT production has now stabilized at the original one-car-per-day rate. This led to the announcement that production would be extended through 2022 (from 2020 to , which will allow 350 additional orders (from 1000). It seems that the Blue Oval has finally found its supercar-building niche.
Today’s SEMA Show unveiling today of the 2019 Ford GT Carbon Series adds to this ambition. This special edition car is 40 pounds lighter than the GT. It uses carbon fiber which is more visible throughout the vehicle than any other GT. The Competition Series is now the lightest Ford GT, with this car taking the title.
Another lightweight innovation is the use titanium exhaust and lug nuts, as well as polycarbonate engine cover and rear hatch. Ford also eliminated cupholders and a storage bin for the driver’s seat. Ford GT Carbon Series isn’t intended to be a track car. However, creature comforts like air conditioning, radio and the Sync 3 infotainment systems make the GT Carbon Series a livable daily commuter.
Hermann Salenbauch is global director of Ford Performance. “The Ford GT Carbon Series stands apart on the road with its striking, carbon-rich design, and on the track, with its athleticism,” he said. “It’s yet another example of how Ford can bring to life the Le Mans-winning supercar in exciting new ways so that our customers can enjoy that magic legacy.”
Lance Mosely is Ford Performance’s marketing manager. “This is another example of Ford listening to its customers. The Ford GT Competition model is popular with hardcore racers, but we discovered that more people wanted exposed carbon fiber and the radio and air conditioning to be preserved. We created the Carbon Series to meet that demand, and provide a unique look.
Ford GT Carbon Series will include a distinctive badge for the instrument cluster, clear-anodized paddle shifters and an exclusive seat design with silver stitching, which also extends into the steering wheel design.
One of the seven GTs Ford will continue to build every week will be from the GT Carbon Series. The GT Carbon Series is available for pre-approved customers, but it will also be available to customers in select global markets including the U.S. when the application process reopens November 8.
