Share

Ultimate Ford roadster

accreditation

With the 1966 Sebring-winning Ford GTX1 roadster as inspiration, Ford SVT engineering supervisor Kip Ewing unveiled his take on that legendary racer during the opening day of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show.

Ewing conceived the idea for a roadster while working on the Ford GT launch, and after completing initial design sketches and engineering studies on his own time, he won the privilege of utilizing the Ford?s SEMA Technology Initiative to bring the Ford GTX1 roadster to life.

The X1 roadster features an innovative roof system of four individual hard panels. The panels can be configured as a coupe, t-top, or full convertible.

Even with all the panels installed, the outer panels can be locked into a vent position. Plus, the panels are painted in the same Valencia Yellow featuring Tungsten Silver stripes; therefore, as a coupe, it doesn?t lose any of its design appeal.

And, X1 drivers won?t be caught in the rain because all four panels can be stored inside the vehicle for easy access.

The Ford GTX1?s rear clamshell covering the engine has been redesigned to feature two buttresses that flow rearward from the seatbacks.

Without the need for a backlight due to its open-top configuration, the view into the engine bay could have gone away, but Ewing deciding against it knowing the importance of showcasing the 407 kW 5.4-litre supercharged V8.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE