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Vaughn Gittin Jnr is first driver to drift all 13 miles of the Nürburgring Nordschleife

Known as the “Green Hell”, the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, in Germany, is a must‑drive destination for petrolheads around the world. Even for experienced drivers, it can be demanding.

So how about drifting the full 20.7-kilometre circuit?

That’s exactly what champion drifter Vaughn Gittin Jnr has done – behind the wheel of his 900hp Ford Performance 5.0 Aluminator XS powered Ford Mustang RTR Drift car, the first time the feat has been accomplished. *

For Gittin Jnr is all about having a “good time, not a lap time”. But he still hit speeds in excess of 240 km/h, shredded three sets of tyres, and maxed out in sixth gear on the sideways entries into the bends.

To see the incredible driving, click on the image above.

*Drifting is forbidden on the Nordschleife, and while some drivers have drifted sections – including two drivers performing drift demos during a race – this is the first full-on drift attack of the complete circuit

Statistics

• Steering lock of Mustang increased to 65 degrees
• Three sets of Nitto tyres needed to drift full 20.76 kilometres – that’s 144,840 kilometres of tyre
• One drone destroyed during filming
• Top speed reached was 241km/h – limited by gearing
• 5.0-litre engine uses a Vortech JL Trim Supercharger and is capable of 700-900 horsepower depending on tune
• Six microphones were used inside the Mustang to capture all of the unique sounds

Quotes from Vaughn Gitten Jnr

“The Nordschleife is one of, if not, the most iconic tracks in the world and I have been in love with the danger and folklore of the famous ‘Green Hell’ at the Nürburgring since I can remember. I finally went there in person in 2013 and it was then that I made a promise to myself that one day I would return to drift it in its entirety.”

“Drifting the Nürburgring represents the ultimate challenge to me: it is something that many question whether it would be possible and whether the car and driver could do it and come out in one piece. Something inside of me had to take this on to find out."

“When people watch this video I hope it offers an intense and fun experience. I hope they see a guy and his Ford Mustang sidekick pushing outside of his comfort zone and the limits of what should be possible with a car. I hope they are inspired to push themselves beyond there comfort zones and enjoy the ride!”

“I did not know the ‘Green Hell’ nearly as well as I thought I did. Everything changes when you’re going sideways at those speeds.”

“I was out of my comfort zone for the majority of the hot laps.”

“When we stopped for the first tyre change I was elated. I had to catch my breath, which is something I have never experienced behind the wheel since I was a rookie in Formula Drift.”

"You will not see it from the video but I scared myself multiple times.”

“My favourite shot of the video is the 360 into shooting the drone with rocks, it just could not get any more perfect.”

“One of the craziest parts of the video is the jump on Pflanzgarten. The speed of that entire section was intense and immediately upon landing I had to flick the car hard sideways to slow down to make the sharp right hander. There was zero margin for error. Damn that was crazy.”

 The new 2019 Ford GT Heritage Edition honors the legendary American Gulf Oil-sponsored Ford GT40 by featuring the most famous paint scheme in motorsports – plus a set of additional exclusive touches.

“Many view the Gulf Oil paint scheme as the most famous in motorsports,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president, global operations. “The 1968 GT40 quickly became a global sensation after beating its European competitors on the track four times in a row, and in honor of the 50th anniversary of its win, we’re paying fresh tribute to the original with a new heritage limited edition.”

Known among racing enthusiasts as chassis No. 1075, the 1968 GT was one of just a few individual cars to achieve repeat victories in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

For the first time, an optional package provides exposed carbon fiber accents for both the interior and exterior of the Ford GT Heritage Edition. For 2019, the package features the No. 9 graphics on the hood and doors, as well as a ghosted image on the interior door panels. For 2020, No. 6 honors the same car that went on to win Le Mans in 1969 with a different number.

The Heritage Edition features exposed carbon fiber A-pillars and sports unique 20-inch one-piece forged aluminum wheels in high-gloss dark stainless with black lug nuts. Orange calipers and silver rearview mirror caps complete the look.

Ebony Alcantara wraps the seats, instrument panel, pillars, headliner and steering wheel. Contrasting blue and orange stitching accentuates the seats and steering wheel, with a new seat embossment inspired by the original 1968 Le Mans-winning car as well as clear and polished anodized paddle shifters.

High-gloss dark stainless appliqués accent the instrument panel, door register bezels and x-brace to round out the interior.

Much like previous heritage models, the Ford GT Heritage Edition features a unique serialized identification plate, plus exposed matte carbon fiber door sills, air register pods and center console.

“We are delighted to partner with Ford to help the Gulf-themed Heritage Edition Ford GT become reality. The Ford Marque has played a major role in creating Gulf’s place in motoring and motorsporting legend and the same is true in reverse,” enthused MD of Gulf Oil Lubricants India Ltd, Ravi Chawla. “Every Gulf outright victory at Le Mans has been Ford-powered and of course Gulf Ford GT40s took the latter two wins of Ford’s four consecutive victories at Le Mans from 1966-1969. What could be more fitting than both brands coming together to produce this fantastic motor car – the modern spiritual successor to the amazing Gulf-Ford GT40s that took Le Mans and World Championship honours.”

DEARBORN, Mich., June 11, 2018 – To improve the new Ford Mustang Shelby® GT350 driver confidence and lap times, Ford Performance leveraged its Mustang road course racing programs and all-new upcoming Shelby® GT500, infusing GT350 with the very latest in track and street technology.

“Somewhere, Carroll is smiling,” said Hermann Salenbauch, global director for Ford Performance vehicle programs. “The new Shelby GT350 is our ultimate track Mustang. We’ve stuck to Carroll Shelby’s original formula for winning championships and made our Shelby GT350 even better with the latest in race-proven aerodynamics, tire and chassis technology.”

From F-150 Raptor to the Ford GT supercar, Ford Performance is creating authentic performance cars, trucks and utilities that deliver heart-pounding excitement for customers around the world.

Next-level chassis technology and aerodynamics

Building on a road course racing and track-focused legacy born in 1965, Ford Performance engineers and designers incorporated the latest advances in tire, aerodynamics and chassis technology into the 2019 Mustang Shelby GT350.

Working exclusively with Michelin, the team also engineered new Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires with a Shelby GT350-specific tread pattern and different compound to deliver more grip for significantly improved acceleration and lateral acceleration, as well as braking. The 295/35 front and 305/35 rear tires are fitted to improved stiffness and optimize new 19-inch aluminum wheels.

An all-new rear spoiler with optional Gurney flap and optimized grille closeout was designed and tuned with experience gained from wind tunnel development of the Ford Performance Mustang road course racing cars and upcoming Shelby GT500 model. Together, they deliver significant rear greater aerodynamic efficiency when equipped with the new optional Gurney flap on the rear spoiler, which will be available after launch.

Upgrades to Mustang Shelby GT350’s standard MagneRide active suspension complement the aero and tire enhancements with recalibrated springs and revised damping to take full advantage of the improvements.

Stopping power is provided by six-piston front and four-piston rear caliper Brembo™ brakes. For added control and improved driver feedback, Shelby GT350’s electric power-assist steering and three-mode electronic stability control settings feature enhancements taken from Ford Performance’s hundreds of hours of competitive track testing.

Tuning with Billy Johnson in the driver’s seat

Billy Johnson knows racing. As a driver for the FIA World Endurance Ford GT and IMSA Mustang GT4 programs, Johnson has broad expertise in what makes for a great driver’s car. He worked with Ford Performance to dial in the Shelby GT350 for 2019.

Shelby GT350’s exclusive high-revving 5.2-liter V8 remains the most powerful naturally aspirated Ford production engine ever and the only one of its type in the segment – delivering 526 horsepower and 429 lb.-ft. of torque at a blistering 8,250-rpm redline. It’s mated to a track-proven and precise-shifting Tremec® 6-speed manual transmission.

Johnson said the result of the new Mustang Shelby GT350’s aerodynamics tuning, revised brake calibration, and much greater downforce is a more balanced, higher-performing car on the straightaways and especially in the corners.

“Along with improved grip, brake and chassis refinements, Shelby GT350 brings a whole new level of performance driving,” he said. “It’s a rewarding car to drive on track for amateurs and pros alike, while making the driver feel like a superhero. It’s confidence inspiring in corners and begs to be pushed harder and to take corners faster.”

More craftsmanship, technology and style

Inside, driver and passengers of the 2019 Mustang Shelby GT350 are treated to a comfortable, stylish and purpose-built cockpit boasting the latest in advanced technology and premium materials expected of a world-class sports car.  

Fresh sporting cues include a standard machined aluminum instrument panel appliqué with an available exposed carbon fiber version, plus newly designed door panel inserts in dark slate Miko® suede with accent stitching. A wrapped center console offers rich world-class craftsmanship. Standard Recaro race seats with firm side bolstering and open pass-throughs for safety harnesses offer the highest level of performance, while new power-adjustable seating is available with Miko suede inserts for those looking for added comfort.

A new high-performance, custom-tuned 12-speaker B&O PLAY audio system by HARMAN is now available for the 2019 Mustang Shelby GT350, controlled via the now standard 8-inch SYNC® 3 touch screen that features SiriusXM and FordPass™Connect. Dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control is now standard, along with a universal garage door opener.

New colors for the 2019 Mustang Shelby GT350 include Velocity Blue and for the first time, Ford Performance Blue. Optional factory-painted over-the-top racing stripes are available in high-gloss Shadow Black, Oxford White or Kona Blue. Mirror-mounted Shelby Cobra Projection Lamps come standard in the available Technology Package.

The 2019 Mustang Shelby GT350 will be available starting in early 2019 and will be built at Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Flat Rock, Michigan. Enrollment in an exclusive, complimentary Track Attack driving program from Ford Performance is included with each vehicle.  

DEARBORN, Mich., May 24, 2018 – Ford is making its iconic F-150 Raptor – the ultimate high-performance off-road pickup – even better with upgraded technology including class-exclusive, electronically controlled FOX™ shocks, new Trail Control™ and all-new Recaro sport seats.

The upgrades are focused on key components that have made F-150 Raptor the benchmark in off-road trucks for an even tougher, smarter, more capable trail runner.

“Raptor’s success is rooted in its incredible suspension, superb vehicle control and the confidence the truck instills in its owners,” said Hermann Salenbauch, global director, Ford Performance vehicle programs. “Upgrades to the 2019 F-150 Raptor have improved all three to new levels that the competition will have to benchmark – again.”

While Raptor has plenty of torque and horsepower, building a high-performance off-road truck isn’t just about engine power – it’s also about the suspension. Raptor’s suspension upgrades make it even more capable of clawing away at the terrain.

To enhance Raptor’s already proven internal bypass shocks, Ford Performance worked directly with FOX to develop all-new electronically controlled Live Valve technology for the new platform that continuously adjusts damping in real-time. This class-exclusive setup uses sensors in the suspension and body to maximize comfort, handling and bottom-out resistance.

“By automatically varying compression rates, Raptor can now make the most of its suspension travel of 13 inches at the front and 13.9 inches at the rear,” said Salenbauch. “The 2019 Raptor is not just more capable off-road. It’s smarter.”

Paired with Raptor’s Terrain Management System™, Live Valve suspension technology can increase the truck’s high-speed off-road capability while also enabling smooth on-road driving performance.

“Not many trucks need sensors to detect when you are midair,” said Salenbauch. “Raptor sets the dampers to full stiffness to help smooth shock performance as the truck lands.”

Low-speed performance off-road is also improved. New Trail Control helps F-150 Raptor drivers navigate challenging conditions. It’s like cruise control for low-speed, rugged terrain, automatically adjusting power and braking to each individual wheel to allow drivers to focus on steering over rugged terrain. Trail Control can be activated at speeds from 1 mph up to 20 mph depending on driveline position.

The system makes everything easier – from driving on a simple two-track trail to traversing a rocky hill climb. Not only can Trail Control automatically draw significant engine torque to overcome steep obstacles, it can individually brake the wheels so the truck comes down smoothly on the other side.

Raptor drivers now have enhanced seats to help keep them firmly in place for improved confidence at low and high speeds. All-new Recaro sport seats provide aggressive support with generous bolstering in the seat back and cushion. This available seat design features blue Alcantara inserts and accent stitching inspired by the Light Speed-colored interior of the Ford GT supercar.

Raptor’s aggressive exterior gets even more intense for 2019 with eye-catching new colors including Ford Performance Blue, Velocity Blue and Agate Black. An enhanced rear appliqué and available newly designed beadlock-capable wheels round out the new look.

The upgraded 2019 F-150 Raptor will be built at Dearborn Truck Plant. It goes on sale in late 2018. 

DEARBORN, Mich., March 29, 2018 – Like the 1968 hit Warner Bros. film “Bullitt,” Ford dealerships across America are bracing for a late summer blockbuster as orders have officially begun for the limited-edition 480-horsepower 2019 Mustang Bullitt.

The iconic 2019 Mustang Bullitt traces its roots to the legendary Highland Green 1968 Mustang GT fastback Steve McQueen thrashed in the action thriller “Bullitt” 50 years ago. Complete with classic cue ball shifter, the 2019 Bullitt bundles the latest Mustang GT Premium and Performance Package content in a sleek, understated design – while packing a hefty punch.

The new Mustang Bullitt delivers even more power, thanks to its performance open air intake, Mustang Shelby GT350 intake manifold, plus a larger 87-millimeter throttle body and unique powertrain control module calibrations delivering 480 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque* and deliver a top speed of 163 mph – an 8 mph increase versus the latest Mustang GT. A fully active black NitroPlate™ quad-tip exhaust comes standard.

Bullitt customers have two color choices – Shadow Black and classic Dark Highland Green. Appointments include subtle chrome accents for the unique black grille and front windows, classic torque-thrust 19-inch aluminum wheels and red-painted Brembo™ brakes.

There’s minimal badging inside and out. All that’s visible on the exterior is the circular faux gas cap Bullitt logo at the rear center. A leather-trimmed interior features unique accent stitching in green on the dashboard, door panels, center console and seats.

“The new Bullitt will be every bit as cool and charismatic as the original ’68 Mustang,” said Corey Holter, Ford car group marketing manager. “Since its introduction earlier this year, Ford dealers have been fielding calls from customers wanting to know when they can order this unique piece of automotive history.”

Mustang Bullitt will go on sale this summer for $46,595 plus a $900 destination and delivery charge.

DEARBORN, Mich., April 10, 2018 – Ford today introduces the all-new Focus car for global customers, featuring the latest advanced and affordable technology with more comfort and space and a better fun-to-drive experience.

Redesigned from the wheels up after hundreds of hours studying and speaking with Focus customers around the world, the next-generation Focus will be tailored to each global region, even as the company becomes more efficient.

“We’re evolving our successful One Ford strategy to find new ways to create a sporty-looking small car our customers will love,” said Jim Farley, president of Global Markets. “We’ll tailor which cars in the Focus line-up we offer in markets around the world to ensure we best meet customers’ different needs and preferences.”

The all-new Focus features 4-door sedan, 5-door estate/wagon and 5-door hatchback body styles, depending on the market. Today, Ford is revealing the luxurious Focus Vignale, sporty ST-Line, adventure-oriented Active and upscale Titanium in Europe and ST-Line and Titanium in China. Ford will introduce Focus in North America closer to its on-sale date next year.

Focus Signals Future of Ford Vehicles

The all-new Focus is one of the first vehicles delivered using Ford’s revamped product development process, which uses human-centered design to better deliver the models, features and technologies customers around the world truly value.

For the next-generation Focus, that means:

• A longer hood with cab-rearward interior that provides a strong, reassuring on-road presence. While it looks bigger than the previous Focus, its overall dimensions are unchanged so it’s still easy to move about urban environments

• More interior space for all passengers, so it’s easier to get in and out of the car, and more cargo area in larger global Focus models

• Advanced design with aerodynamics that look modern while helping to improve efficiency

In addition, human-centered design allows each market to tailor their Focus line-up, creating new models targeted to specific customer groups, such as the new sport ST-Line or adventure-focused Active models for the new Focus.

Through the use of globally common but flexible architectures and modules, Ford is able to deliver visually differentiated Focus variants to appeal to diverse customer needs while maintaining a high level of commonality and low complexity.

Even as Ford finds ways to deliver new and additional Focus variants – which for many markets will bring a richer mix of Focus models – the company is working to reduce complexity and improve quality.

Ford has reduced the number of orderable configurations by as much as 92 percent versus the previous Focus, reducing from up to 360 configurations to as few as 26, depending on the global market. This complexity reduction helps Ford lower and control costs while ensuring Focus customers can more easily and quickly find the model that meets their needs.

While it starts with Focus, this approach will further strengthen with future Ford vehicles as the company moves from individual vehicle platforms to all-new flexible vehicle architectures paired with modular “families,” streamlining common components such as engines, electrical systems and high-end features, such as sunroofs.

Innovative Technologies

For customers around the world, the all-new Focus majors in advanced and innovative technology that keeps customers connected and safely on the road.

The all-new Ford Focus debuts Ford Co-Pilot360™, a suite of advanced driver assist technologies to help drivers move more safely, confidently and freely.

Available technologies, which will vary by region, include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) enhanced with Stop & Go, Speed Sign Recognition and Lane-Centering for effortlessly negotiating stop-start traffic

• Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System with new camera-based predictive curve light and Sign-based light that pre-adjust headlamp patterns for improved visibility by monitoring bends in the road and – for the first time in the industry – road signs

• A new version of Active Park Assist that now also operates gear selection, acceleration and braking to enable fully automated maneuvers at the push of a button

• Evasive Steering Assist, a segment-first technology that helps drivers steer around stopped or slower vehicles to help avoid collisions

As part of Ford’s vision to deliver smart vehicles for a smart world, 90 percent of its new global vehicles will be equipped with internet connectivity by 2020.  This includes the new Focus, which will come with FordPass Connect embedded modem technology. This allows Ford customers to turn the vehicle into a mobile WiFi hotspot with connectivity for up to 10 devices.

In addition to helping drivers plan faster, less stressful journeys with Live Traffic updates for the navigation system and enabling occupants to stream entertainment on the move, FordPass Connect allows a range of convenient features via the FordPass mobile app, including:

• Vehicle Locator, helping owners find their car in sprawling shopping mall car parks

• Vehicle Status, for checking fuel levels, alarm status, oil life and more

• Door Lock Unlock, to remotely allow access to your Focus

• Remote Start

A new available wireless charging pad beneath the instrument panel enables passengers to easily charge compatible smartphones and mobile devices. Devices can remain connected via Bluetooth to Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system while using wireless charging.

SYNC 3 also is available with a 203 millimeter (8-inch) color touchscreen that can be operated using pinch and swipe gestures and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™. SYNC 3 also allows drivers to control audio, navigation and climate functions plus connected smartphones using simple voice commands.

More Comfort and Space

Focus’ interior comfort is more refined and upscale. Even the instrument panel positioning is optimized for getting in and out of the car. An electric parking brake and rotary gear shift dial frees up space and provide easier access to bins and cup holders for the driver and front passenger. A narrower center console – enabled by relocating switches and controls to the touchscreen – features soft knee pads for more comfort.

Additional space is delivered for backseat passengers by extending the wheelbase and flat floor. Shoulder-room increases by nearly 61 millimeters (2.4 inches) and knee clearance and legroom grows by nearly 51 millimeters (2 inches) and 71 millimeters (2.8 inches), respectively.

The heating and air-conditioning system heats and cools the cabin faster and more quietly.

Special attention was paid even to the shape of the sideview door mirrors, which were designed to help reduce that air throbbing effect that can occur when one window is lowered at speed.

The Focus team also thought about pet friendliness. For wagon customers, rear cargo space is designed to comfortably accommodate large pet carriers, with up to 1,650-liters / 58 cubic-feet of cargo volume behind the front seats when the rear seats are folded. There’s even an available “Easy Fold Seat” feature to quickly lower the seats with the pull of a lever.

Ford’s Hands-free liftgate technology allows access to the wagon cargo space with a simple kicking motion under the rear bumper. Also, the cargo cover now fits neatly beneath the new flexible load floor when not needed.

Better Driving Experience

The all-new Focus remains true to its 20-year legacy of class-leading driving dynamics. It’s more fun-to-drive with improved refinement, thanks to an all-new chassis and suspension with a 20 percent improvement in torsional rigidity for better body control. An all-new Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system provides more responsive, intuitive and engaging steering feel.

All-new Focus offers standard Drive Mode Technology – including Normal, Sport and Eco modes – for the first time, enabling drivers to adjust engine and transmission response, steering feel and Adaptive Cruise Control to match the driving situation from sporty to efficiency-minded.

In China, the all-new Focus offers a range of advanced gasoline engines, including the award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine, plus an all-new 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine optimized for high torque at low rpm. In Europe, Focus brings two additional options: a 1.5-liter EcoBoost gasoline and 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel. North American powertrain options will be announced closer to launch.

Ford’s new optional quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission is engineered to further optimize fuel-efficiency and deliver responsive performance. Features include:

• Adaptive Shift Scheduling, which assesses individual driving styles to optimize gearshift timings for a more stable, engaging and refined driving experience

• Adaptive Shift Quality Control, which assesses vehicle and environmental information to help adjust clutch pressures for consistently smooth gearshifts

The all-new Focus goes on sale in Europe and China this year and North America in the second half of 2019.