Not only did the wheel design on the 2021 Mustang Mach 1 Handling Package draw inspiration from bird’s nests and bridge trusses, but it borrowed some details from both the production Focus ST and prototype Mustang Mach-E wheels.
From a visual standpoint, wheels can make or break a car’s look. The same can be said for its performance. Balancing both to create a wheel befitting of the “most track-capable 5.0-liter Mustang ever,” was the mission for Ford’s designers and engineers. The result is a unique wheel design available as part of the Handling Package option.
“In some ways, I see wheels as jewelry for the vehicle,” Mark Kaski, designer at Ford Motor Company explained. “This design is different than anything we’ve ever done, but I think it is perfect for this new Mach 1. It’s going to influence Mustang wheel design going forward.”
To create wheels that are both one inch wider and two pounds lighter than the standard Mach 1 wheels, Ford’s designers drew inspiration from bridges and bird’s nests for the styling of the wheel. Bringing that style to life, engineers utilized a layering process that resulted in wheels forged from cast aluminum that not only deliver style, but the kind of strength required for aggressive cornering.
“There aren’t many in the industry doing layering like this on a production wheel,” Kaski said of the process that created this complex design for the optional Handling Package. The 2021 Mustang Mach 1 will roll onto North American dealer lots in the spring with a base MSRP of $51,720. For those wanting the ultimate corner-carving version, the optional, $3,500 Mach 1 Handling Package is available for order starting on January 4, 2021, so get ready to contact your dealer of choice.
