Combining a special edition inspired by a classic with the innovation of modern electric vehicles: this is the goal of the new Ford Mustang Mach-E GT California Special. Available for the most equipped version of the brand’s fully electric SUV (with 1487 hp, 950 Nm of maximum torque, and a range of up to 515 km), it is an optional design package similar to that already proposed for the latest generation of the two-door gasoline Mustang, launched in 2024, to which some exclusive exterior and interior elements have been added.
Common to both Mustang California Special are the Adriatic Blue accents on the wheels, grille, and exterior and interior logos; and the updated version of the “California Special” font, where the traditional style of the 1960s has given way to a more contemporary block appearance – characteristic of the SUV are the 20” charcoal gray wheels with the GT/CS logo printed, and a glossy black aerodynamic cover; the aged dark anodized frame on the pony emblem in the grille; and the special graphic on the hood, inspired by the Californian coast. However, it is in the interior that the Mustang Mach-E GT California Special promises to truly stand out, through the sports seats upholstered in navy ActiveX fabric with blue and silver reflective stripes, the same present on the center console and the steering wheel, while the matching floor mats reflect the blue and silver details of the seats.
Although, in its current format, there are substantial changes compared to the original, the origins of the “California Special” editions of the Mustang date back to the 1960s, a time when Ford dealers in California accounted for a large portion of the model’s sales and wanted their contribution to its success to be reflected in an exclusive package. To achieve this, they worked together with the Dearborn company, and in 1968, the first California Special was born, featuring red and black details, and the aerodynamic solutions of the time defining the equipment package for years, even though just over 4,000 units of the original Mustang California Special were produced.
Today, just as before, Ford’s designers continue to draw inspiration from the community that helped make the Mustang an icon, with the trends of each era and the way owners modify their vehicles influencing the creative process. An example of this is the Adriatic Blue wheels of today’s California Special package inspired by vehicles displayed at SEMA in Las Vegas, the largest automotive aftermarket event.
