The Ford Mustang maintains its distinctiveness while also evolving. Now, there’s a four-door electric crossover dubbed a Mustang by Ford, but the traditional two-door, eight-cylinder powerhouse remains. According to Ford CEO Jim Farley, the electric variant ensures the longevity of the V8 model for years to come.
During the company’s 2024 racing season kickoff in Charlotte, North Carolina, Farley shared an inspirational statement with media personnel. The Blue Oval’s top executive expressed:
“Approaching its 60th anniversary, Mustang has endured. Many rivals have come and gone, but we’ve remained steadfast with Mustang. Over the years, it has evolved with models like EcoBoost and Dark Horse, and our commitment remains unwavering. Being the sole provider globally of an affordable V8 sports car, we are proud to uphold this legacy.”
For car enthusiasts, this sentiment resonates deeply. While opinions may differ on the Mustang Mach-E, Farley points out that the electric vehicle “enables us [Ford] to sustain the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles for an extended period.” Viewing it in this light, even traditionalists may appreciate the Mach-E as essential for future sustainability.
Farley didn’t simply commend the V8 engine; he also highlighted that Mustangs will race across six continents throughout 2024, participating in events from IMSA and NASCAR in the US to Australian Supercars and the World Endurance Championship. Farley expressed, “This is all made possible by our V8 engine.”
There’s no concrete timeline for when Ford might cease production of internal combustion engines, if ever in our lifetime. Further electrification is inevitable, but the company seems committed to producing high-performance vehicles that operate, at least partially, on traditional fuel sources. With the glimpses of hybrid V8s seen thus far, the imminent transition of the Mustang promises an exciting journey.
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