Fullscreen
Ford's off-road lineup breaks new ground with a pioneering rally EV, producing 480 hp, 650 lb-ft torque, 0-60 of just 3.5 seconds, and impressive offroad capabilities
by Stanley on December 11, 2023, 11:25Ford’s Mustang Mach-E Rally breaks new ground as the first-ever rally-inspired electric vehicle, as well as the first off-road Mustang. Joining the Mustang Mach-E family, the Rally variant steers Ford’s EV range into a unique direction, trekking dirt roads, kicking up gravel, and mixing milkshakes while doing so with zero tailpipe emissions. With its rally-tuned suspension, dual-motor electric powertrain, and distinctive styling, the Mach-E Rally stands apart from its GT Performance siblings.
To ensure it lives up to the hype, Ford built a dedicated rally course at its Michigan proving ground to put the Mach-E Rally through its paces and test its offroad capabilities. Thanks to this, the production version Mach-E Rally is a product of 500 miles of rallycross durability tests.
With these facts arguably making it the ideal EV successor to the discontinued Focus RS rally sport monster, does it manage to embody the true spirit of the hot hatch? Let’s find out.
Introducing the first-ever off-road Mustang
While the Mach-E GT Performance trim is designed for smooth on-road performance, the Rally variant is all about tackling rough, wild terrains. As a result, Ford ensures it gets all the necessary hardware to handle the challenges of dirt roads. It comes with a rally-tuned suspension and an extra 0.8-inch ground clearance compared to the Mustang Mach-E GT. It also gets specially tuned springs and MagneRide shocks to help cushion bumpy terrains.
Additionally, there’s protective shielding for the front and rear motors, a protective film that shields the doors and fender arches from paint chips, and optional styled mud flaps to limit debris spray. Also, should your off-road adventures get a little too excessive, there are tow hooks for you to rescue the Mach-E Rally out of challenging situations.
Stopping power comes from 15.8-inch front brake rotors with red-painted Brembo-branded calipers. The brakes are 1.5 inches larger than that of the standard models. Ford doesn’t spill the details on the rear brakes, so it’s likely to stick with the current Mach-E’s standard 12.4-inch units and single-piston calipers, which might be a bit disappointing for those expecting more in line with the E Rally’s off-road ambitions.
The Mach-E Rally’s electric motor delivers impressive power
Because it’s geared for off-road adventures, the Rally gets slightly more power than the Mach-E GT Performance. It features the same dual-electric powertrain as the GT Performance, but it’s tweaked ever so slightly to produce 650 pound-feet of torque, 16 more than the GT Performance’s 634. Horsepower remains the same at 480 ponies.
With the additional torque, the Mach-E Rally is anticipated to achieve a swift 3.5-second 0-60-mph time, slightly ahead of the GT Performance, which reaches the same mark in 3.7 seconds.
A 91.0 kWh lithium-ion battery pack powers the Mustang Mach-E Rally, the same battery featured in the 2023 Extended Range Mach-E models. However, those variants offer more range, reaching up to 312 miles depending on the number of motors.
In contrast, the Rally shares the same 250-mile range as the GT Performance on a single charge. But of course, the actual distance it’ll cover depends on how excited you get with the accelerator pedal - good luck with that!
Regarding refills, Ford made adjustments to trim down the overall DC fast-charge time for the Rally. It’s estimated to juice up from 10 to 80 percent in about 36 minutes on a DC Fast Charger. For comparison, the standard-range Mach-E takes approximately 45 minutes to reach the same level.
| EV Powertrain | 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally | 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E 4 | 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Pack | 91.0 kWh | 88.0 kWh | 88.0 kWh |
| Number Of Motors | Front and rear motors | Front and rear motors | Front and rear motors |
| Combined Horsepower | 480 hp | 346 hp | 480 hp |
| Combined Torque | 650 lb-ft | 428 lb-ft | 634 lb-ft |
| Drive Type | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| 0 To 60 MPH | 3.5 seconds | 5.1 seconds | 3.7 seconds |
| Range | 250 miles | 270 miles | 250 miles |
Introducing the first-ever RallySport Drive Mode
Ford introduces the first-ever RallySport Drive Mode on the Mustang Mach-E Rally. As you may have guessed, it’s specifically designed for off-road driving and allows for added yaw on intense slides and sideways control.
It also enhances linear throttle response for better control, and delivers more aggressive damping for improved handling in loose corners. This not only allows the Mach-E rally to perform better on dirt roads but also enables it to handle challenging on-road conditions like snow and slippery surfaces.
A modern, rally-inspired design
As a rally EV, the Mustang Mach-E Rally not only comes with suspension tuning but also embraces design elements synonymous with rally cars. Upfront, it sports a distinctive and purposeful front fascia that houses built-in rally-inspired fog lights and a unique front splitter.
The rear also gets a prominent spoiler inspired by the Focus RS. At the same time, it features unique contrasting accents, including upper and lower body moldings, and a black-painted steel roof accompanied by two racing stripes that complement the bold exterior colors.
For improved off-road performance, it ditches the Mach-E’s standard tires for slightly more aggressive rubber, rolling on durable-looking gloss white 19-inch rally-style alloy wheels wrapped in 235/55 R19 Michelin CrossClimate2 tires.
Inside the cabin, the Rally receives subtle updates. You’ll find distinctive Ford-designed performance seats with gloss white seatbacks and "Mach-E Rally" debossed into the seating surface.
There are nice-looking gloss white accents on the dash, and the bottom spokes of the steering wheel boast a glossy white finish alongside contrast stitches on the interior door trim.
Integrating Ford’s most advanced technology
The Mach-E Rally comes with numerous tech features that ensure it’s always easy to ride both on and off the road. It inherits the 15.5-inch portrait-style touchscreen found in the other Mach-Es, offering a familiar and user-friendly interface.
It’s also packed with the latest technologies that customers have come to expect from Ford vehicles. For instance, it features Ford’s optional BlueCruise hands-free highway driving technology, Lane Change Assist, and In-Lane Repositioning. These features enhance precision around curves and narrow lanes, ensuring a controlled and stress-free journey.
Conclusion
While the Mach-E Rally may not be a full-fledged off-roader, its enhanced suspension, protective underbody shielding, and meticulous tuning empower it to take on dirt roads with equal zeal.
Also, while the EV may not quite offer an identical vibe to the traditional Focus RS, enthusiasts yearning for the hot hatch’s experience can find a nostalgic touch with its rally-inspired design - especially the prominent rear spoiler. Although it won’t sound the same, the impressive 480 horsepower and 650 pound-feet powertrain and 3.5-second zero to 60 mph time certainly won’t disappoint!
Production of the Mustang Mach-E Rally is expected to start in early 2024, with deliveries taking place later. Ford is yet to release official pricing, but the Rally is expected to have around $65,000 on the window sticker.
If you’re hunting down a larger, more capable off-road vehicle, you may also want to consider the Ford F-150 Raptor, another impressive option in Ford’s off-road lineup. With up to 13,500 pounds of towing capacity, a 5.5-foot bed, and a starting price of $65,945, it provides a great alternative.
FAQs
How much is the Ford Mach-E Rally?
The 2024 Ford Mustang Mach E Rally is expected to start around $65,000.
What is the difference between Mach-E and Mach-E Rally?
While the Mach-E trim is designed for smooth on-road performance, the Rally variant is all about tackling rough, unpaved roads.
What is the difference between Mach-E rally and GT?
The Mach-E GT is the high-performance variant of the Mach-E range, whereas the Rally is targeted for off-road adventures.
What is the range of the Mach-E rally?
The Mach-E Rally shares the same 250-mile range as the GT Performance on a single charge.
Is Mach E expensive?
The current Mach E starts at $45,390. Although some buyers consider it overpriced, its advanced electric drivetrain technology justifies the cost.
What is the fastest Ford Mach E?
The Mach-E GT Performance is the fastest variant of the current Mach-E lineup, achieving a zero to 60 mph sprint in 3.7 seconds.
What does Mach stand for in Mustang?
The Mach-E nameplate is taken from a term used to denote something traveling at the speed of sound.
How long can a Mach-E drive?
Extended Range Mach-E models can drive up to 312 miles depending on the number of motors.
How many passengers can a Mach-E hold?
As a compact crossover SUV, the Mach-E is designed with room for five riders.
How popular is the Mach-E?
The Mach-E is the second-best-selling electric SUV in the US, behind Tesla’s Model Y.
Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally: The First Mustang Made to Live on Tarmac and Play in the Dirt
The world is about to witness the power and agility of EVs in a new way with the Ford Mustang Mach-E® Rally. It joins the Mustang Mach-E family and pushes electric vehicles in a different direction, the first-ever rally-inspired EV from Ford takes Mustang freedom and fun onto dirt roads.
"Just a year ago, this was merely an idea, and what you see today is a testament to the passion and intense creativity of our Model e team," said Donna Dickson, chief engineer, Mustang Mach-E. "We have always explored new areas of performance, and the combination of a rally-tuned suspension, dual motor electric powertrain, and wicked styling makes the Mustang Mach-E Rally a different kind of performance vehicle that will excite customers chasing their next adventure.”
Mustang Mach-E Rally is electric vehicle technology applied to an entirely untapped white space, expanding the Mustang Mach-E family. This machine boasts a tuned version of the Mustang Mach-E GT powertrain, with a two-motor layout targeting at least 650 lb.-ft. of torque and 480 horsepower.
The vehicle rides on a unique suspension that has been raised 20 millimeters over Mustang Mach-E GT and is equipped with specially tuned springs, MagneRide shocks, and 385-millimeter front brake rotors with red-painted Brembo®-branded calipers.
Mustang Mach-E Rally includes a lithium-ion battery with a 91 kWh usable capacity and is targeting an EPA-estimated range of 250 miles. The Mustang Mach-E Rally is estimated to charge from 10 to 80% in approximately 36 and a half minutes on a DC Fast Charger.
Where the rubber meets the dirt road, Mustang Mach-E Rally sports durable, gloss white 19-inch rally-style alloy wheels inspired by the long history of Ford rally vehicles and wearing 235/55 R19 Michelin CrossClimate2 tires that provide more sidewall and loose surface grip compared to GT. With all the gravel customers will kick up, the underside gets protective shielding for the front and rear motors, protective film on the door cladding and fender arches to help reduce paint chips, and available dealer-installed styled mud flaps to reduce debris spray. There’s also a recovery point built into the front end and included hook should off-highway adventures ever get a little too spicy.
Mustang Mach-E Rally has the first-ever RallySport Drive Mode from Ford, which is designed for off-road driving and allows for added yaw for bigger slides, a linear throttle response for better control, and more aggressive damping for better handling in loose corners. As a bonus, drivers will appreciate how this drive mode, combined with the new tires, allows the Mustang Mach-E Rally to perform in snow and other slick on-road conditions.
It also comes equipped with Ford technology customers have come to expect, including available Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving technology, which will be included with a 90-day trial or can be activated at any point during the vehicle ownership journey. The latest generation of software, BlueCruise 1.3, builds on BlueCruise 1.0 and 1.2 by further enhancing the hands-free-driving experience. Customers will experience a more continuously engaged driving experience with Lane Change Assist and In-Lane Repositioning, providing improved performance including around curves and in narrow lanes.
To test the Mustang Mach-E, Ford developed an all-new rally course at its Michigan Proving Ground. The course was specially designed by rallycross veterans to simulate just what the vehicle might see out in the real world. Engineers and technicians then abused Mustang Mach-E Rally prototypes in 500-mile tests simulating rally-cross durability trials to make sure it lived up to their design intent.
The Mustang Mach-E Rally also looks the part by wearing a dramatic rear spoiler that takes inspiration from the Focus® RS, unique contrasting accents, including upper and lower body moldings, a unique front splitter, black painted steel roof, distinctive and purposeful front fascia that houses built-in rally-inspired fog lights. Every Mustang Mach-E Rally comes standard with two racing stripes that complement the bold color palette. It can be ordered in Grabber Blue, Shadow Black, Eruption Green, and eye-popping Grabber Yellow with available Star White or new Glacier Gray as extra cost options.
Inside there’s a combination of comfort, functionality, and style that ties in with the iconic white wheels. There are gloss white accents on the dash, the lower spokes of the steering wheel and contrasting stitching on the doors. Drivers will strap into distinctive Ford-designed performance seats that feature gloss white seatbacks, and “Mach-E Rally” debossed into the seating surface.
“Mustang Mach-E Rally puts Ford’s decades of passion for rally championships around the world right in the hands of our customers.’ said Jim Farley, chief executive officer. “It takes Mustang where it hasn’t been before – to gravel and dirt roads. Inspired by true driving enthusiasts, a driving experience like never before for the pure joy of driving.”
Mustang Mach-E Rally is the latest in a long line of innovative vehicles from Ford, following in the tire tracks of the F-150 Raptor®, F-150 Lightning®, Maverick®, E-Transit®, and Ranger Raptor® all of which gave customers something new in the market. With Mustang Mach E-Rally, Ford is offering a crossover for passionate drivers with an active lifestyle who want to bring their friends along on their adventures, all while doing it with zero tailpipe emissions.
Targeted starting MSRP of the Mustang Mach-E Rally is around $65,000 in the United States, exact pricing closer to launch o stay up to speed with the rally-inspired, five-passenger Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally. The Mustang Mach-E Rally will be available to purchase in early 2024 and deliveries will begin shortly afterward.
Stanley
related articles
The 2024 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Keeps Things Simple With Subtle Changes
January 22, 2024
