The latest Ford Mustang Mach-E for 2024 ushers in the Rally performance tier as its crowning variant. Drawing from rallycross competitions, this influence permeates more than just the aesthetic features of the automobile.
Tuesday brought further details from Ford about the rigorous evaluation performed during the development of the Mustang Mach-E Rally, incorporating drills to validate its competence in managing the paces of rallycross contests.
Ford shared that prototype models underwent extreme testing at the company’s Michigan Proving Grounds. This round of testing happened on a purpose-built track segment designed to mimic typical rallycross sequences, featuring a mix of surfaces, narrow bends, and even aerial jumps.
The prototypes endured 500 miles in these harsh environments, which, according to Ford, mirrors the degradation experienced from a decade of monthly participation in rallycross events. Much of the test driving was conducted by Chris Berchin, a former rallycross competitor and current off-road attributes engineer for Ford.
Additionally, this evaluation refined the newly introduced RallySport driving mode within the automobile. This mode offers enhanced leeway for yaw and side-sliding movements before the stability control systems intercede, as well as a more uniform throttle output and a revamped damping scheme for the magnetorheological dampers.
Further enhancements encompass a 1.0-inch elevation over the standard Mustang Mach-E GT’s suspension, specifically calibrated springs, and 19-inch rims cloaked in Michelin CrossClimate2 rubber.
The upcoming Mustang Mach-E Rally has a starting cost of $61,890, inclusive of a $1,895 shipping fee. It arrives with 480 horsepower, symmetrical all-wheel drive, and the 91-kwh Extended Range battery of the Mach-E as standard equipment. Ford’s range approximation is around 265 miles.
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