WHAT’S NEW 07
A thorough test programme
Digital versions of the Mach-E have been put through
extensive testing on famous race circuits with the help of
Ford’s racing simulator in North Carolina which, according
to Darren Palmer, Ford’s global director for BEV product
development, proved realistic enough to highlight a need
for additional strengthening at the rear subframe.
Local teams were involved from the offset. European
chassis engineers at Ford’s proving ground in Lommel,
Belgium, benchmarked the Kuga ST-Line for steering feel
and ride comfort, using a handful of prototypes to ensure
consistent character across the range. Instead of hindering
performance, the carmaker says the layout puts them to
good use. The 500 to 600kg battery pack gives the twotonne
SUV lower yaw and roll than an equivalent gasoline
or diesel car, in turn avoiding the need for overly stiff
spring rates.
While the Mustang Mach-E has been tuned for daily use,
there are more aggressive versions available for those who
want more performance. The 465PS (342kW) GT version is
undergoing final validation work with regional chassis
teams ahead of its planned launch in 2021. It features a
bespoke, adaptive MagneRide damping system, dual-motor
AWD and the long-range battery, with performance
augmented by further engineering synergies with its
commercial vehicle stablemates such as the electrified
Transit models, according to Palmer.
May/June 2020 • VehicleDynamicsInternational.com
/VehicleDynamicsInternational.com