Optional Mach 1 Handling Package Wheels Inspired By Bird Nests

You know the Maserati Birdcage, now meet the Ford bird nest… wheels. Although you may have seen them already, Ford Mustang is now revealing the advantages of these Mach 1-exclusive wheels.

Not only are bird nests suitable for egg coddling, they’re surprisingly strong, too. To be fair, the specific technique being employed here–that being the layering of long straight line (or spokes) behind shorter, angled lines (again, spokes)–is also used in bridge design. But that’s neither fun nor a particularly surprising source of inspiration.

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The effect, here looking like a very busy and attractive Y-spoke wheel, is not unheard of, but is usually the province of show cars and other non-road-going vehicles.

The wheels, designed by Mark Kaski–who has designed most Mustang wheels for the last ten years–will be unique to the Mach 1, but the design may inspire other wheels available across the line.

“This design is different than anything we’ve ever done, but I think it’s perfect for this new Mach 1,” said Kaski in a statement. “It’s going to influence Mustang wheel design going forward.”

And best of all the wheels weigh about 2 lbs less than the Mach 1’s standard wheels. That is no doubt helped by the use of cast aluminum in their construction, but they are an inch wider, too, so the weight saving is impressive.

The extra inch of rubber hitting the ground, along with the lowered unsprung mass should both lead to better handling and performance.

And they look pretty great, too, which is a fun bonus. As Kaski says “In some ways, I see the wheels as jewelry for the vehicle.”

The new wheels will join the already available Handling Package, which is a $3,500 option. The package includes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, adjustable top strut mounts, a swing rear spoiler with a Gurney flap (the same one as on the GT500), special chassis tuning, and a front splitter.

Considered together, the Handling Package should net you 150% more downforce than a regular Mustang with the Performance Pack Level 1. Offered with either a 10-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual, the Mach 1 starts at $52,915.