Ford’s electrification push gave birth to
the Mustang Mach-E, its first mass-produced electric vehicle, and it’s also
believed to be a viable strategy for the next generation Mustang coupe and
convertible. Expected as early as 2022, reports Autocar, the new-gen muscle car
will build on the success of the current model that has been the best-selling
sports coupe globally for the past five years.
There have been talks about a possible
hybrid version, and it seems that the Dearborn automaker has decided to offer
such a model. It should get a V8 connected to a hybrid system, with two small
electric motors. The eight-banger is understood to power the rear wheels, but
the added electric power could be directed to the front axle, stepping in when
the rear tires lose traction.
Under certain circumstances, when the new
Mustang doesn’t need the full force of the V8, the ICE could turn off
completely for short periods of time. The way the powertrain will work is
understood to be similar to the new Explorer Hybrid. And that’s not a
coincidence, given that the new muscle car might be based on the same platform
architecture, the CD6, which is also employed in the Lincoln Aviator.
It’s unknown whether Ford will continue to
offer a non-electrified V8, although if it does, don’t expect to see it in
Europe, due to the tougher emission regulations. The future of the four-pot is
also unknown. On a more positive note, the coupe and convertible variants will
live on, in both left- and right-hand drive versions.
In the design department, it shouldn’t be
a massive change over the current Mustang, which entered production in 2014
(unlike the more progressive renders for a Mustang GT Concept by automotive
designer Ming D. Nguyen pictured here). Ford is thought to concentrate on an
evolutionary styling language and a more driver-focused interior compared to
the Mustang Mach-E. The cabin space should be largely the same and the rear
seats, which are too cramped for adults, are expected to be retained.
