Ford has dropped a few hints about the next-generation Mustang as the automaker has already confirmed plans to electrify the legendary pony car.
While the company has been tight-lipped about specifics, an engineer’s Linkedin profile might have provided a handful of important clues.
The information should be taken with a grain of salt, but their profile lists them as a product development engineer on the S650 Mustang. More importantly, it says they worked on hybrid versions of a 2.3-liter four-cylinder and 5.0-liter V8 engine.
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Assuming everything is legit, this seems to suggest the next-generation Mustang will offer familiar engines that have been hybridized. As a refresher, the 2021 Mustang EcoBoost has 310 hp (231 kW / 314 PS), while the High Performance Package increases the rating to 330 hp (246 kW / 335 PS). Likewise, the 5.0-liter V8 produces 460 hp (343 kW / 466 PS) in the GT and 480 hp (358 kW / 487 PS) in the Mach 1.
The listing doesn’t elaborate about the hybrid powertrains but, back in 2018, Ford said the “Mustang Hybrid will be all about delivering V8-like performance with more low-end torque.” Besides improving performance, we can expect better fuel economy as the company has previously said their upcoming hybrids will serve as a “hedge against higher gas prices.”
Ford hasn’t said much about the model since then, but rumors have suggested the next-generation Mustang will be offered with an all-wheel drive system like the Dodge Challenger. The Blue Oval has even patented a “twin motor drive system for [a] hybrid electric vehicle” that features a V8 engine as well as two electric motors. According to the patent, the internal combustion engine would power the rear wheels, while the electric motors power the ones up front.
While a lot of questions remain, we should start seeing prototypes soon as the redesigned pony car is slated to arrive in time for the 2023 model year.
Note: 2021 Mustang Mach 1 pictured, H/T to Mustang7G
