It has begun - the era of performance electric cars. No gas engines here, ultra-high torque guarantees fast acceleration. How about a Mustang with 1000 ft/lbs of torque and a 0-60 time of 3.9 seconds? And then there is the even lighter Cobra replica...
Read the press release below and follow the link in the title above to the site of HST International for more information. Note the downloadable brochures.Press release follows.
HST International - Tjaarda Design Alliance Changes Face of Electric Cars
'Electric Muscle(TM)' on display at Long Beach 'Green Power Prix-View' SAN DIEGO, APRIL 16 /PRNewswire/ --
HST International has announced a partnership with Tjaarda Design that will change the face of electric cars. The designs that will define the next generation of "Electric Muscle(TM)", the Tjaarda EVX Mustang and HST Shelby Cobra EVX, will premiere at the 34th Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach's "Green Power Prix-View" on April 18-20. The Mustang EVX and HST Shelby Cobra EVX prove that electric cars can be environmentally friendly as well as winners on the track and in the looks department. While designed for different purposes, both cars are true zero emission vehicles and feature 300-horsepower electric motors using lithium iron phosphate battery packs developed by K2 Energy Solutions. With 1000 ft/lbs of torque @ 0 rpm, they have the capability to do 0-60 in less than four seconds and a range of over 100 miles. "We're excited to be bringing these vehicles to market because they're head turners and so much fun to drive," says Tod Boretto, president of HST International.
"But more than that, this is a long-term initiative and a unique opportunity on several levels. We do not believe any other manufacturer is bringing together this level of design, performance and green technology today." The Tjaarda EVX Mustang is designed to be driven daily -- which, with its ability to do 0-60 in 3.9 seconds is no hardship. With a top speed of 120 mph and a range of 110 miles between charges, its estimated operating cost is 3 cents/mile. The exterior is a modern version of a muscle car era classic Mustang, but under the hood it's a green dream.
The HST Shelby Cobra EVX has the capability to run 0-60 in 3.2 seconds, a top speed of 150 mph and a range of 120 miles, depending on driving habits. With on-board recharging, it requires 3 1/2 hours/220V and 8 hours/110V. Estimated operational cost is 3 cents/mile.
"Tom Tjaarda's place in automotive design history -- from the Ferrari 365 GT California Spider to the Fiat 124 Spyder -- will ensure that these cars continue to drop jaws for their looks as well as their performance," adds Boretto.
The Tjaarda EVX Mustang starts at $80,000 and the Cobra at $125,000, with a range of options available for both vehicles.
They will be on display in booth #2104 at the Green Power Prix-View from April 18-20, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. The Tjaarda EVX Mustang and HST Shelby Cobra EVX will next be featured at NBC's World Series of Golf in May.
San Diego-based HST International uses high-technology engineering and manufacturing to address specialized needs in the automotive industry. Through its alliance partnerships with K2 Energy, Torino International and Tjaarda Design, HST International develops products that achieve the highest levels of quality, innovation and performance.
So much for honor and decency: Carroll Shelby has taken another legal step against the organization that sustained him for 30 years.
A lot of people are absolutely disgusted with Shelby, and I've been one of them well before his campaign against his fans and supporters. IMHO, he is the classic snake oil salesman, pure and simple. He has made a marketing business deal with Ford that probably nets him a nice little income, while netting for Ford some retro history image for the latest Mustang (based on a history that had no meaning whatsoever after the first 3 or 4 years). Which itself is a grotesquely obese and technically obsolete relic that Shelby himself actually had very little technical contribution to.
What he originally did in racing 50 and 40 years ago can't be disputed... but after a few years of actually producing original Mustangs with a couple of technical enhancements (versus simply licensing his name on them - as happened after Ford took over production in the late 60s) followed by a very few years of managing GT40 and other racing efforts, his contribution to the hobby and industry stopped cold. That should have been the end of his history and would have been if it weren't for a few Dodge Omnis with a similar licensing deal. And if it weren't for the Shelby American Automobile Club (SAAC) - a very small group of diehards that formed a club to keep Shelby Mustangs alive and hold a conference once a year. I've been to a couple of those events, and the dedication of the members to their cars is extremely strong to say the least. The dedication of these members to Shelby himself was just about the only group of people supporting and honoring his original accomplishments for probably 30 years. If anything, the SAAC was too successful – original Shelbys grew in value well out of proportion to their original accomplishments, and from that Shelby himself was reborn as a demigod. Shelby would be in an obscure retirement if it wasn't for the SAAC.
There were also, as often happens in politics as well, a very very small group of fans who hoped to get some greatness rub off on their otherwise unaccomplished little selves by worshiping at the Shrine of All Things Shelby. Again, like politics, these types of people purposely blind themselves to faults and business machinations (note the parallel here to the supporters of Bill Clinton). Some even hoped to curry his favor by naming their children after him – an obscene act performed at the expense of the child; an offering made solely in the hope of gaining the (momentary) attention of Himself. There's probably a bunch of little Clintons running around as well, although not thru exactly the same means.
This mess then will be Shelby's enduring legacy. He made it himself and it will survive him.
Compare this legacy to that of Mario Andretti or Dan Gurney - there is no comparison. There accomplishments were even greater - but even more importantly they don't piss on their fans.
A press release from Shelby follows below. And be sure to read Pete DeLorenzo's article in the December 5th Autoextremist.com. As usual, he says it best: http://www.saac.com/other_quotes.htm
Shelby Press Release follows:
CARROLL SHELBY LICENSING ASKS COURT TO ENFORCE TERMS OF AGREEMENT WITH ORGANIZATION FORMERLY KNOWN AS SAAC
Gardena, Calif. – January 31, 2008 – Carroll Shelby Licensing Inc., (CSL) and Carroll Hall Shelby Trust (Shelby Trust) filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court on January 29, 2008, against the organization formerly known as the Shelby American Automobile Club (SAAC), which is owned and operated by Ken Eber and Rick Kopec. In the lawsuit, CSL and the Shelby Trust filed for Declaratory Relief, Breach of Contract and Preliminary and Permanent Injunction against the organization owned by Eber and Kopec.
As outlined in a news release dated December 7, 2007, CSL announced that it had determined not to renew its written license agreement with the organization then known as SAAC. That decision was based, among other business considerations, on a continued disregard for the license agreement requirements. The annual, year-to-year agreement was personally signed by Eber and Kopec on behalf of their club in 1999.
In light of the organization’s repeated claims that the group did not recognize and had no intention of recognizing the termination of the licensing agreement and that it planned to continue the unauthorized use of trademarks owned by the Shelby Trust and licensed exclusively by CSL. Officials with the Shelby Trust and CSL had no other recourse than to file the suit. In their filing, CSL and the Shelby Trust seek a declaration from the court that will compel the enforcement of the terms of the licensing agreement both before and after its termination.
About Carroll Shelby Licensing, Inc. Automotive manufacturer and entrepreneur Carroll Shelby is one of the most famous and successful high performance visionaries in the world. In 1998, he founded Carroll Shelby Licensing Inc., which is the exclusive holder of trademarks and vehicle design rights for some of the most famous muscle cars and high-performance vehicles. CSL also holds trademark rights for Shelby-branded apparel, accessories and collectibles. For additional information about the company or licensing opportunities, call (310) 914-1843 or visit www.shelbylicensing.com
A full year before production begins, Ford has introduced the 2008 Shelby GT500KR special edition. Only 1000 will be built, starting in the spring of 2008.
Ford press release follows...
MORE MUSTANG POWER: FORD SHELBY GT500KR ‘KING OF THE ROAD’ RETURNS IN 2008
2008 Shelby GT500KR
Celebrating the fortieth anniversary of the original Shelby Cobra GT500KR, Ford and Shelby collaborate on a new ‘King of the Road’ Mustang with the 2008 Shelby GT500KR.
Shelby GT500KR features an estimated 540-hp 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 with a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack, 3.73:1 rear axle ratio, short-throw shifter, and unique suspension tuning.
Exterior design draws inspiration from the classic Shelby KR Mustangs and features unique carbon composite hood, wheels, and special 40th Anniversary badging and unique striping.
Shelby GT500KR arrives in spring 2008 in an exclusive run of only 1000 units.
DEARBORN, Mich., March 30 - Ford and Shelby Automobiles are at it again, this time in celebration of the fortieth anniversary of the 1968 Shelby Cobra GT500KR. To be unveiled at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, the 2008 Shelby GT500KR—the most powerful Mustang to date—will once again mark Mustang as ‘King of the Road.’
“I’m proud to once again be a part of an historical moment, bringing back the ‘King of the Road’ Mustang, and collaborating with Ford SVT and Ford Racing” said Carroll Shelby. “I’m committed to continuously upping the ante when it comes to performance, and it’s great to be doing it with Ford.” “The return of the Shelby GT500KR further establishes Mustang as the true king of the pony car segment,” said Robert Parker, manager of Ford Car Brand. “With the unveiling of the new KR we are staying true to the promise we made our loyal Mustang fans to continue Mustang’s prowess by bringing new, exciting and more powerful Mustangs to market.”
Forty years ago, at the 1967 New York Auto Show, Ford introduced the most powerful Shelby Mustang ever. Like every Mustang that bore the name ‘Shelby,’ the GT500KR carries with it its own unique story.
The 1968 Shelby Cobra GT500KR was a mid-year introduction, based on the 1968 Shelby GT500. Ford added ‘Cobra’ to the Shelby’s moniker to help usher in the beginning of a new performance era at the company. The Cobra name referred to the new 428 Cobra Jet V-8 that was planted under the KR’s custom fiberglass hood. It was the engine that would once again vault the Mustang to the head of the pack.
Ford conservatively rated the 428 CJ at 335-horsepower, but in reality it made more than 400-horsepower and 440 pounds-feet of torque. The KR model was also equipped with a modified suspension and was offered both in fastback and convertible models. Ford dealers sold 1,570 GT500KR models in 1968, 1053 fastbacks and 517 convertibles.
While the name ‘King of the Road’ may have been the perfect fit for the world’s most powerful Mustang, it also provided Shelby the chance to steal the thunder from cross-town rival General Motors. As the legend goes, Shelby learned that GM was planning to introduce a high-performance model and call it ‘King of the Road.’
Since he had always wanted to use the name, and as one to never miss an opportunity, Shelby set his organization in gear, registering the name and designing new badging for the Cobra Jet-powered Mustang, christening it the GT500KR, and bringing Ford’s ‘King of the Road’ to market before GM ever got a chance to apply the name to their product.
Thoroughbred Pedigree Just like its 1968 namesake, the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR builds on the strong foundation of the Shelby GT500. Packing 40 more horses under its custom-designed carbon composite hood, the GT500KR is the most powerful production Ford Mustang ever produced.
The modern Shelby Mustang line-up started with the 2007 Shelby GT500 coupe and convertible. With the recent launch of the 2007 Shelby GT, the 2008 Shelby GT500KR becomes the third production high-performance Mustang brought to market through the relationship of Shelby Automobiles and Ford. Ford and Shelby Automobiles also partnered up with Hertz to produce a special limited run of 500 Shelby GT-H “rent-a-racer” Mustangs available only for rent.
The 2007 Shelby GT500 has been one of the most successful vehicle programs in the 14-year history of Ford Special Vehicle Team (SVT) and that success has opened the door for more performance collaborations with Shelby Automobiles and Ford Racing. Working together, these three performance powerhouses are driving Mustang momentum on the street and on the racetrack. Dealers cannot keep the cars on their lots, customers are clamoring for more, and racers are bringing home championships.
Shelby Mustangs have already achieved some impressive highlights showcasing an enthusiast demand that is unmatched in the business:
The first 2007 Shelby GT500 available to the public sold for $600,000 dollars at the 2006 Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale, AZ benefiting the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation.
2007 Shelby GT VIN#1 also went for $600,000 at charity auction, this time at the 2007 Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction (and the winning bidder also took the opportunity to purchase VIN#2 at MSRP).
Shelby GT-H coupes auctioned off to Ford dealers after completion of Hertz rental duty consistently average $50,000, with high auction bids of $90,000.
The Shelby GT500KR will be produced in an exclusive run of 1000 units and will begin arriving in Ford dealers in the spring of 2008.
Crowning the New “King of the Road” Doug Gaffka, Ford SVT chief designer, and his team worked closely with Carroll Shelby and the Shelby team to make certain the new KR was crafted in the spirit of the original Shelby muscle car.
“This was a great effort between Ford and Shelby Automobiles,” said Gaffka. “The Shelby team and I were in constant contact melding Carroll’s classic design cues with some modern concepts and ideas and finessing them into the design of the new KR.”
Gary Davis, vice president of production and product development for Shelby Automobiles, played a key role in defining the look of the custom designed carbon composite hood for the GT500KR. His knowledge of the original GT500KR helped sculpt a modern interpretation of the original’s bulging hood scoop, a visual indication of the extra horsepower packed beneath it. The hood is secured by a pair of stainless steel, twist-down hood pins. The composite front valance houses a pair of chrome-trimmed, functional brake ducts to cool the large 14-inch, vented Brembo front brakes.
Side stripes are true to the original KR right down to the font used for the ‘GT500KR’ lettering, while the classic LeMans-style striping that races down the center of the car has been deleted between the leading forward edge of the hood scoops and the front of the hood, accenting the scoops and giving the KR its distinctive face. “That was Shelby’s idea,” said Gaffka. “It’s a special touch that adds some down-the-road differentiation. There will be no doubt that it’s a ‘King of the Road’ Mustang that’s filling up your rearview mirrors.”
The show car wears exclusive, Shelby-designed 20-inch, forged, polished aluminum wheels with special custom center caps, mounted on Pirelli rubber. Production models will arrive with an 18-inch version of the design.
Each KR model is identified by special 40th Anniversary KR badges on the fenders and grille, distinctive body colored mirror caps and Shelby lettering stretching across the front of the hood and along the rear portion of the deck lid. A special Shelby VIN tag is affixed to each vehicle, mounted in the engine compartment.
The all-leather interior features Carroll Shelby signature embroidered headrests and an official Shelby CSM 40th Anniversary GT500KR dash plate mounted at the top of the center stack.
The KR’s 5.4-liter V-8 Gets the Royal Treatment Just like its namesake, the 2008 ‘King of the Road’ packs a walloping dose of Ford performance power under its massive composite hood scoops. The Ford SVT-engineered 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 is treated to a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack that boosts horsepower to an estimated 540 and torque to 510 ft.-lbs., thanks to revised ignition and throttle calibration and a cold air intake system that replaces the stock unit.
Calibration modifications include advancing the ignition timing as well as re-mapping of the electronic throttle settings to provide quicker throttle response for better off-line and mid-range acceleration. Increased throttle response will be met with a sharper roar from the Ford Racing-inspired exhaust system.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission and 3.73:1 rear axle ratio, upgraded from the standard GT500’s 3.31:1. Gear selection is courtesy of an all-new Ford Racing short-throw shifter making its debut on the KR. Topped with a white ball, the new shifter is 25 percent shorter than the unit on the GT500 providing for crisper, sharper shifts.
Ford SVT, Ford Racing and Team Shelby worked together to develop the KR’s suspension tuning. Based on initial work by Ford Racing and the team at Shelby, often at Shelby’s own facility on the grounds of Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Ford SVT chassis engineers will apply fine tuning techniques to prepare it for the streets.
“The production Shelby GT500 was maximized to deliver the perfect balance between ride and handling,” said Jamal Hameedi, chief nameplate engineer, Ford SVT. “In that same ride versus handling continuum, the KR will lean heavier towards all-out handling while still making it drivable on the street.”
Chassis engineers worked closely with the engine department in a holistic approach to the development of the KR, tuning the suspension to best optimize the engine enhancements.
“We aren’t fixing our attention on one or two attributes, but working on the vehicle as a whole,” stated Gary Patterson, vice president of operations for Shelby Automobiles. “The throttle response, power delivery, exhaust note, and handling should all gel together to deliver a total driving experience.”
The GT500KR will feature unique spring rates, dampers, stabilizer bars, and strut tower brace, all designed specifically for the KR, to deliver the precision handling package.
Mustang Momentum Cannot be Stopped Unwilling to wait for the impending pony car war to heat up, Ford is extending Mustang’s leadership position by feeding the enthusiast demand for more models, features, performance parts, and special editions. Ford has committed to at least one new Mustang ‘feature’ vehicle per year. For 2007, it is the Shelby GT, and for 2008, there will be at least two including the Shelby GT500KR and the previously announced Mustang Bullitt. Ford’s ‘Steed for Every Need’ strategy currently offers four horsepower options for Mustang, with pricing from $19,995 for a 240-hp V-6 Mustang coupe to $46,500 for a 500-hp Shelby GT500 convertible.
Ford has also introduced several special packages on Mustang further increasing its unique offerings, including the Pony Package and the California Special. In addition, Ford Racing offers a complete catalog of performance parts for Mustang fans, from custom wheels and exhausts to the complete, turn-key Ford Racing Mustang FR500C race car.
As a result, Ford offers Mustang enthusiasts the ability to buy, modify and drive the steed that perfectly fits their need.
About Ford Motor Company Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With more than 280,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo, Aston Martin and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com.
About Shelby Automobiles, Inc. Founded by legend Carroll Shelby, Shelby Automobiles, Inc., manufactures and markets performance vehicles and related products. The company manufactures authentic continuation Cobras, including the 427 S/C, 289 FIA and 289 street car component vehicles. In 2007, the company partnered with Ford Motor Company to launch the new Shelby GT, which is based on the Mustang. For more information about Shelby Automobiles and to see the build of a 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR, visit www.shelbyautos.com.
2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR – Specifications and Design Highlights
5.4-liter supercharged V-8 producing an estimated 540-horsepower and 510 ft.-lbs. of torque
Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack featuring revised calibration and cold air intake system
6-speed manual transmission with 3.73:1 rear axle ratio
Ford Racing performance exhaust system
Unique performance suspension tuning: springs, dampers, and stabilizer bars
Shelby-designed ‘GT500KR’ 20-inch wheels (18-inch version for production)
Ford Racing short-throw shifter and front strut tower brace
The Shelby GT-H convertible is a follow-on to last year's semi-successful coupe program. GT-H Convertible serial number 1 was auctioned last night in a Barret-Jackson auction that was broadcvast live on Speed TV.
The auction was assisted by Mark Fields of Ford, who very enthusiastically assisted by introducing 'ole 'Shel, staging the addition of a special Fender guitar half-way thru the bidding, and adding the shirt off his back in the latter half of the bidding. Nice guy. The bidding was slow, but was driven all the way up to $250,000.
The Shelby GT-H is a Mustang GT with the California Special body package. It comes solely with an automatic transmission (saving a lot of money on replacing clutches) and 17" tires (all the better to prevent tire sidewall damage from lousy drivers). Also added are off-the-shelf Ford perfromance add-ons for the suspension and engine, yielding another 19 emissions-certified horsepower - and requiring premium fuel (something which in my experience Hertz rarely bothers to use). Also added are an ugly fiberglass hood and a equally-ugly chrome-bar grill. And a roll hoop that has zero structural significance and which would probably end up wrapped around the necks of the occupants in the event of a rollover (I've said it before - these are stupid and pointless).
Now lets get real about this Shelby.
The GT-H is literally a Mustang GT. Your dealer can add the identical performance and handling parts for Ford for a thousand or so dollars.
So what are you getting - technically - from a Shelby GT-H? Nothing unique whatsoever.
And what are you getting otherwise from a Shelby GT-H?
A great poseur ride:
The Shelby GT-H all about looks - there is nothing serious technically here. A crude stone-age suspension, stiff ride, with only incrementally raised dynamics. This is a rolling palace of "look at me - I'm a big deal".
All the attention-getting stripes you could hope for
Fake scoops on the hood and side. They do nothing, zero, nada. Thankfully, the Shelby GT-H doesn't get the 64 fake scoops that Saleen would have done (collectors take note: going to 128 fake scoops in the upcoming 2010 Saleen - if there is a Saleen after the firings that were made as a result of the numerous Ford GT glitches, as well as the recent winnowing of the overblown staff).
Ole 'Shels name signed on the dashboard - something he'll gladly do at any car show you can find him at for a small donation to one of his charities. Don't get me wrong - he has very good charities... but the signature isn't anything unique. He'll sign anything for a donation.
Speaking of the charity donation:
How much of the $250K will actually end up at the charity? Charitable foundations are notorious for deducting expenses.
My tax accountant tells me that the $250k figure paid can be partially taken off the buyersd taxes, although he will need to make a special deal with the IRS to sign off the amount above the actual value of the car. Hmmm... this presents a problem. The value of the car is about $35k - not counting whatever can be made of the association with "Shelby". The value might be $250k - if you can believe this will be worth anything one day. If you understand that this is purely a Mustang GT, then the value of the car remains at $35k and you have a $215k donation to charity. The buyer will no doubt need a tax lawyer to represent him to the IRS.
Ole Shel himself can claim some revenue from representing his charitable organization. Amount unknown, but he is probably paid very well.
What is Mark Fields time worth to Ford Motor Company? What did the car cost Ford Motor Company? All of that is deductible as well. Same for the special transporter used to get the car to the auction and later to deliver the car to the buyer.
All-in-all, this evening looks like a deduction-haven for both Ole Shel and Ford Motor Company. There may be a million dollars of deduction total.
An unlikely future collectible:
Does anybody actually believe that the new Mustang market will yield collectibles like the original market in the '60s? The original Shelbys - for a very short period of time - had a unique engine and suspension modifications. Never mind thart the original 306-HP 289 would be rated at about 250-260 horses on today's scale. It was unique to Shelby. Same for the suspension, with it's specially relocated lower control mounting points. These types of changes yielded a unique Shelby, once that was indeeed functionally better than stock. This was done in 1965 and 1966... afterwards the changes were abandoned and the car was brought onto Ford's assembly line as a trim option. Compare this to the new Shelbys - the GT and GT-H are "built" in Las Vegas (time peices are added, Ford off-the-shelf performance packs added) and the Shelby GT500/500KR is simply a Ford product. All the Shelbys are built in larger numbers than the originals, in only 2 years of Shelby availablility the total production has eclipsed that of the '60s models.
The original '65 and '66 Shelbys were very usable as race cars - and had some success in competition to prove it. The new Shelbys? Totally hopeless there.
Wouldn't a Shelby GT GT500 (and the new GT500KR) be worth even more at auction? Oh, but wait, the Shelby GT500/GT500KR development didn't include Shelby, being purely an in-house Ford product.... the left-over pieces once the intended SVT Cobra was gutted and finally cancelled.
A technically obsolete 319-HP Mustang GT will be worth very little when a 400-HP Mustang GT debuts in 2009. 319-HP doesn't look like very much at all in the year 2007... it will look like a whole lot less in 2009 in when Ford finally introduces a competitive and sorely-needed "large" engine and is able to eliminate the horribly dated and obsolete 5.4 liter "modular" truck engine.
There is a sucker born every day, but the Shelbys will sell. In the end this is all that can be said of Shelby.
And I remain saddened that the Mustang as a whole has fallen to this low point. No serious sporting abilities, technically stone-age, larger than ever, and morbidly obese.
Ford press release follows.
FORD, SHELBY AND HERTZ TEAM UP FOR SHELBY GT-H “RENT A RACER” CONVERTIBLE
New Shelby GT-H is the first convertible in the history of Shelby/Hertz “Rent-A-Racer” program
500 convertibles will be available for rent through the Hertz Fun Collection at select airport locations
Shelby GT-H packs Ford Racing performance and handling parts in the classic Black & Gold Hertz livery
The convertible GT-H makes a live debut during the Barrett-Jackson Auction on SPEED on March 31, as CS VIN #001 is sold for $250,000, benefiting the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation
Palm Beach, Fla., March 31, 2007 – Lightning has struck again, the Ford Shelby GT-H “Rent-A-Racer” program from Ford Motor Company, Shelby Automobiles and The Hertz Corporation has returned with a special run of convertible versions of the performance-modified Ford Mustang GTs for rent exclusively through Hertz. Unveiled and sold for $250,000 on the block at the Barrett-Jackson Auction in West Palm Beach, Fla., the companies announced that approximately 500 convertibles, a first for the GT-H program, will be available through the Hertz Fun Collection at select airport locations in Arizona, California, Colorado, and Hawaii, later this year. Proceeds of the sale will benefit the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation.
The Shelby GT-H Mustang program was launched in 2006 to commemorate a plan by Carroll Shelby and The Hertz Corporation in 1966 to help put high-performance, special-edition Shelby Mustang coupes into the hands of racing enthusiast-minded rental customers. Ford supplied the new Mustangs with V-8 engines and automatic transmissions while Shelby added extra performance and style. Hertz gave the public access to a unique driving experience. Those Shelby GT-H Mustang coupes are being retired from the fleet, and are in the process of being auctioned off to Ford dealers. Some of the early GT-H coupes to reach auction have achieved impressively high prices – in the range of $60,000-$90,000 – which underscores the desirability of the Shelby GT-H program.
The program was so popular that Shelby, Ford and Hertz have again teamed up to create the first Shelby GT-H Mustang convertibles. The 500 cars will be built at Shelby Auto’s facility in Las Vegas for delivery to Hertz.
“The Ford Shelby GT-H was so much fun to drive that people literally begged us for more,” said Carroll Shelby, CEO of Shelby Automobiles, Inc. “The Mustang program never stands still, so we created a Ford Shelby GT-H convertible that gives people another unique driving experience. It’s a genuine American pony car that delivers open air motoring.”
Hertz Fun Collection Highlighting its position as a leader at U.S. airports in the leisure car rental market, Hertz’s Fun Collection features vehicles tailor-made for travelers seeking exciting driving experiences. The Fun Collection, with cars that can be reserved by specific make and model, adds more entertainment to the driving experience as each car comes equipped with SIRIUS (Nasdaq: SIRI)* Satellite Radio.
The 2008 Ford Shelby GT-H Mustang convertible will be available at select airport locations that feature the Hertz Fun Collection including Phoenix, Arizona; Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego and San Francisco, California; Denver, Colorado; Maui and Honolulu, Hawaii, and Las Vegas, Nevada.
“We’re excited to be offering a special edition Shelby GT-H Mustang convertible,” commented Joe Nothwang, Executive Vice President and President of the Americas and Pacific for Hertz. “Customer reaction to last year’s Shelby GT-H Mustang was so positive that we felt it only natural to offer yet another exclusive car through Hertz’s Fun Collection. Once again, customers can experience the thrill of renting a high-performance car that provides the utmost in driving experiences while adding a splash of fun with its open roof capabilities.”
Consumers can check-out the Shelby GT-H convertible which will be on display in the SIRIUS booth, booth CP-9 (Crystal Palace 9), at the New York International Auto Show April 6 – 15, 2007.
With the addition of the Shelby GT-H Mustang Convertible, Hertz now offers 14 Fun Collection cars that can be specifically reserved. More than 40,000 Fun Collection vehicles are available at approximately 20 major airport locations in the United States.
Shelby Styling Like its 2006 Shelby GT-H Mustang coupe, the 2008 convertible will be instantly recognizable. Clad in black exterior paint set off with gold “Le Mans” dual racing stripes and “Shelby GT-H” rocker stripes, each will wear a Hertz Edition emblem on the front fenders and feature Hertz Shelby GT-H sill plates. A numbered dash badge with Carroll Shelby’s signature will be inside the cockpit.
The Shelby GT-H Mustang convertible will be fitted with a unique hood with pins and a brushed aluminum grille with running horse emblem. A unique front fascia with integrated lower grille, as well as a set of body side scoops will be incorporated. The GT-H’s 18-inch black aluminum wheels will be shod with P235/55ZR18 performance rubber. To give the car additional stiffness, a stylish light bar and supplemental bracing will also be added to the convertible.
Thundering Ponies Ford Racing Performance Group’s Power Pack (FR1) will kick up the 4.6L V-8/Five-speed automatic transmission powertrain to 319 horsepower. To put that extra power to the ground, the Ford Shelby GT-H will feature the Ford Racing Handling Pack (FR3) including special-tuned dampers, lowering springs, sway bars and a strut tower brace – plus a 3.55:1 ratio rear axle assembly for extra off-the-line acceleration.
“Any Mustang touched by Carroll Shelby has a head start on becoming a legend, and a highly desirable collectible, but they're all designed to be seen, heard and driven hard” said Cisco Codina, group vice president, Ford North America Marketing, Sales and Service. “That's why demand is so high in our showrooms, and on the auction block.”
With total production expected to number only 500 units exclusively for Hertz rental fleets, this special-edition Shelby GT-H Mustang convertible will give Hertz customers a truly exclusive driving experience.
“This GT-H project was a tremendous success and demand for the sexy pony car led Shelby Autos and Ford to offer a retail version to the public,” said Amy Boylan, president, Shelby Automobiles Inc. “Working together with Ford and Hertz, we look forward to creating history with the first Shelby GT-H Mustang convertible. This car will deliver the looks and performance expected of a high-performance Shelby-ized Ford Mustang. It will give Hertz customers the opportunity to enjoy a rare muscle car with real top-down driving excitement.”
Hertz Fun Collection The Hertz Fun Collection features convertibles including the Ford Mustang, Mazda Miata, Toyota Solara, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler Crossfire and Nissan 350Z; coupes/roadsters including Ford Mustang (hard-top), Chrysler Crossfire, and Nissan 350Z; and SUVs such as the Ford Edge AWD, Jeep Wrangler, and Hummer H3. For Shelby GT-H or other Hertz Fun Collection reservations, or to see which vehicles are available, visit www.hertz.com. The Hertz Fun Collection may also be reserved through travel agents or by calling the Hertz toll-free at 1-800-654-3131.
About Shelby Automobiles, Inc. Founded by legend Carroll Shelby, Shelby Automobiles, Inc., manufactures and markets performance vehicles and related products. The company manufactures authentic continuation Cobras, including the 427 S/C, 289 FIA and 289 street car component vehicles. In 2007, the company partnered with Ford Motor Company to launch the new Shelby GT, which is based on the Mustang. For more information about Shelby Automobiles and to see the build of a 2008 Shelby GT500KR, visit www.shelbyautos.com.
Ford Motor Company Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With more than 280,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo, Aston Martin and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com.
* SIRIUS is a registered trademark of SIRIUS Satellite Radio, Inc.
FORD UNVEILS TRIO OF VEHICLES FOR NEW YORK AUTO SHOW, INCLUDING MOST POWERFUL MUSTANG AND F-150
New, limited-edition vehicles developed with hip hop guru Funkmaster Flex and hot rodder Chip Foose will join the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR – the most powerful Mustang to ever – at the 2007 New York International Auto Show.
2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR roars to life in spring 2008.
2008 Ford F-150 Foose Edition hits the streets in fall 2007.
2008 Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition to launch in fall 2007.
Ford’s customization business continues to grow: up 50 percent in 2006.
DEARBORN, Mich., March 30, 2007 – Ford unveiled three new limited-edition models today – the Shelby GT500KR, the F-150 Foose Edition and the Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition – all of which will be make their public debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show. The trio of vehicles, including the most powerful pickup and most powerful Mustang ever from Ford, demonstrates how the company is leveraging key partnerships to create exciting new products.
“Marrying great Ford products like Mustang, F-150 and Expedition to strong partners like Shelby, Foose and Flex creates vehicles that are irresistible to customers who want to make the boldest statement they can,” said Cisco Codina, group Vice President of North America Marketing, Sales and Service. “We are seeing more demand for special wheels and accessories and, of course, from-the-factory packages like the new Eddie Bauer Taurus X and Harley F-150s.”
Ford research indicates that 62 percent of full-size pickup truck buyers purchase accessories for their vehicles, and 73 percent buy parts through their dealer. Truck buyers spend an average of $1700 in accessories. Roughly 30 percent of crossover utility vehicle buyers purchase accessories, and they are more likely to make accessory purchases at the dealership.
Ford’s overall customization business grew 50 percent in 2006 and could potentially double its business again in the next two years, driven by factory-customized products and a hard focus on wheels, appearance packages and electronics such as DVD players and navigation systems.
“This is really a fashion industry,” says Peter MacGillivray, vice president, Marketing and Communications for the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). “Consumers want to put their personal stamps on everything they buy – from personalized rings to build-a-teddy-bear – and everybody knows that ‘you are what you drive.’”
2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR:
Launching next spring, the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR model features a 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 with a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack that boosts engine output to an estimated 540 horsepower.
Produced in a limited edition of 1,000 units, the Shelby GT500KR coupe comes with a custom carbon composite hood with scoops and stainless steel twist-down hood pins, a lower front air dam with chrome-trimmed functional brake ducts and large 14-inch Brembo front brakes. The suspension has been modified with an emphasis on race-inspired handling.
Drawing inspiration from the classic 1968 KR model, the Shelby GT500KR also features 40 th Anniversary exterior badging, unique striping and a distinctive interior with Carroll Shelby-signature embroidered seats and a 40 th Anniversary numbered dash plaque.
2008 Ford F-150 Foose Edition:
Hitting the streets in early 2008 is one tough boulevard cruiser – the 2008 Ford F-150 Foose Edition styled by custom street rod designer Chip Foose.
Lowered, but looking even more hunkered down thanks to its big 22-inch wheels, the special Foose F-150 sports bold racing stripes that start at the edge of the hood and then thin out over the front fenders to run the length of the vehicle only to widen again at the tailgate.
Planned for an initial run of 500 units, Foose gave the F-150 a new grille with horizontal bars as well as rocker moldings to further help lower the vehicle visually while the cab is accented by Chip Foose signature headrests and floor mats, a unique leather-wrapped center console and a Foose-designed serialization plate showing the VIN and build-sequence numbers.
Powering the Foose Edition F-150 is a 450-horsepower supercharged Triton V8 that puts out 500 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm, making it the most powerful Ford F-150 since the 2004 Ford SVT Lightning. When it hits the streets, it will be the most powerful half-ton pickup on the market.
2008 Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition:
Coming to dealer showrooms this fall, the 2008 Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition turns the hot Expedition concept vehicle created by hip hop DJ Funkmaster Flex into a limited-production, short wheelbase SUV.
The Expedition FMF will sport a two-tone Colorado Red-and-Black paint scheme with Orange pinstriping and special chrome badging, a custom front fascia with integrated fog lamps, side skirts, rear fascia and 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels.
Inside, a matching Colorado Red instrument panel, console bezel, shifter and switch bezels blend with four leather captains chairs with red stitching, FMF red logo headrests, and a red-stitched steering wheel. Rounding out the package is an exclusive numbered dash plaque signed by Funkmaster Flex and SIRIUS satellite Radio.
The Expedition FMF Edition also sports a 340-watt Audiophile™ Sound System, MP3 player audio jack, Powerfold™ third-row seating, heated and cooled front seats and an optional navigation system, power liftgate and rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With more than 280,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo, Aston Martin and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com.
Chrome tubular grills...
The Shelby GT-H convertible is a follow-on to last year's semi-successful coupe program. GT-H Convertible serial number 1 was auctioned last night in a Barret-Jackson auction that was broadcvast live on Speed TV.