Ford Motor Co. officially launched the production of the all-new Ford Mustang at the Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan.
The start of production marks the sixth generation for this classic pony car that first launched almost four decades ago.
This year will be a little bit different though as the Mustang is being designed as a global vehicle. What this means is that the car will be exported around the world, including about 120 countries outside of North America. To accommodate this, the Michigan workers are building versions with right-hand drive for markets including the United Kingdom, Australia and South Africa.
The new Mustang buyers will have a choice of several different powertrains. The most powerful engine is the 5.0-litre V8 that generates 485 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. It is also possible to pick either the 3.7-litre V6, which is the base engine, or the new 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost engine that can produce 310 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque.
Ford has sold over 50,000 Mustangs so far this year, which is about 6,000 units short of its main rival, the Chevrolet Camaro. The Mustang was the sales leader in this segment for years until this decade, when the Camaro took over and has maintained the top spot.
Joe Hinrichs, Ford president of the Americas says that Mustang will continue to be an automotive icon and, by expanding globally, it only gives more customers around the world the opportunity to have a firsthand Mustang experience.
Ford invested $555 million USD at the Flat Rock plant to make the new Mustang as well as add production for the Ford Fusion. The plant now employs about 3,000 people.
The 2015 Ford Mustang goes on sale this fall in North America and will hit the global market next year.
