Ford engineers dreamt up the Ford GT with an eye towards functional beauty, with innovations that could potentially enhance every vehicle in the Ford lineup. From advanced in-car drive modes appearing in the 2018 Mustang to a truck-friendly version of GT’s EcoBoost engine powering the 2017 F-150 Raptor, there are no limits to Ford GT acting as an innovation hub – a rolling laboratory – for the rest of the Ford lineup.
When it comes to trimming weight, the GT is designed with the most innovative materials. Not the least of which includes Gorilla Glass, a light but extremely durable glass used for GT’s front and rear windows. It’s a light-weighting innovation that may one day benefit all Ford drivers.
Ford engineers teamed up with leading glassware manufacturer Corning to implement Gorilla Glass in the 2017 supercar. This tough, ding and scratch-resistant glass is already seen in the screens of 4.5-billion mobiles devices around the world – and now it’s taking its elite performance to a true supercar.
These slim, strong panels are one essential way Ford engineers reduce weight through the body of the GT. Other weight-saving features include the use of carbon fibre, ultra-lightweight carbon ceramic brakes, and high-strength aluminum alloy that is already a staple of the F-Series lineup (and soon, the all-new 2018 Ford Expedition). With performance top of mind, only the best suffices.
Using the strongest, toughest, and most capable materials to develop vehicles, Ford engineers are no strangers to thinking outside the box to benefit vehicles across the lineup. Corning’s Gorilla Glass is five times stronger than ordinary glass, and is tested in extreme road conditions, enduring all manner of projectiles that would otherwise penetrate regular automotive glass – even golf ball-sized ice spheres shot from an air cannon.
Gorilla Glass saves over 5 kilograms of weight, resulting in increased acceleration, fuel efficiency, and braking performance. Handling benefits from the removal of glass weight from the GT’s upper half, lowering the centre of gravity which makes steering and acceleration that much more responsive.
With the Ford GT’s innovations spreading through the lineup, inspiring and guiding Ford engineers, it’s possible that other innovations, like Corning’s Gorilla Glass, could make their way to daily drivers in the near future. In essence, Ford GT innovation means good news for all Ford drivers.
Which vehicle would you like to see outfitted with lighter but stronger Gorilla Glass? Tell us below or comment on Ford Canada’s Facebook page!