Concept cars are like Elon Musk sound bites: while they tend to whip people into a frenzy about what the future holds, they rarely — if ever — come to fruition. But once in a blue moon, they do. And this is one of those times.
Ford recently announced that their stunning Shelby GR-1 concept will head into production. The supercar was first unveiled at the 2004 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance as a platform model (that is, sans engine, drivetrain and interior), then debuted in full-bodied glory at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. The design is based on the Ford GT platform, but pays homage in style to the 1964 Shelby Daytona Coupe. Still not ringing a bell? Try these desert shots:
The production model won’t come from Ford itself, but according to Car and Driver the company will officially license models produced by Superformance. Apparently the Californian replica experts — responsible for such vehicles as the continuation Shelby Cobra — have been trying to get Ford’s blessing to build this car for six years.
Unfortunately, you’ll have to wait another two years or so until the GR-1 hits the market. But when it does, only 200 special-edition aluminum cars will be available, with the rest coming in carbon fiber. But what about the V10 engine, 605 HP and 3.9-second 0-60 MPH time from the concept? During the Petersen Automotive Museum event where this announcement was made, Superformance CEO Lance Stander and Shelby American Vice President Vince Laviolette floated many titillating claims, including that they’re “shooting for a two-second Shelby” and looking into offering electric GR-1s.
But the Drive contacted a more prudent Shelby American spokesperson who said, “Everyone is very excited to move forward with it, but must wait for the 2015 Low Volume Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Act to be finalized.” Until that happens, the GR-1 is on ice.
Now there’s something we can all call our reps about.
All photos courtesy of Ford
This article was featured in the InsideHook newsletter. Sign up now.
