Ford is drawing attention to a special group of pilots with a custom one-off Mustang Mach-E. The special Mach-E honors Women Airforce Service Pilots, a group of volunteer pilots that piloted planes during World War II.
The Mach-E was auctioned off during the 2021 Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture air show last week in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Auction proceeds benefit the EAA’s initiative to provide young women and underserved youths more access to a career in the aviation industry.
“It was hard not to get a little teary-eyed as we put the finishing touches on this vehicle,” said Kristen Keenan, Ford designer who worked on the project. “I have never worked on a memorial project before. Commemorating this group of women through the vehicle design was an honor.”
Designed by Ford, the special Mustang Mach-E features a custom paint scheme with military badging that includes the U.S. Army Airforce Star on both sides, wings logo on hood and fender. You'll also see No. 38 on the front fascia, rear bumper, and inside the cabin. That number is of special significance as it signifies the 38 volunteers who died in service to their country.
The Women Airforce Service Pilots flew almost every type of military plane in World War II, delivering them from factories to U.S. Army Bases around the world for combat use. These women flew more than 60 million miles in WWII, but despite their sacrifice, they weren't recognized as active military personnel until 1977 when the pilots were granted retroactive military status.
The Ford Mach-E designed to honor these pilots is part of the automaker's ongoing efforts to support AirVenture.
“Ford is helping build the next generation of aviation through their support of EAA, AirVenture and The Gathering,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board. “This project not only will be a highlight of The Gathering, its impact will help EAA reach young adults who are pursuing their own dreams of flight.”
For more than two decades, Ford has supported AirVenture and has donated 12 custom, aviation-themed performance vehicles, raising a total of more than $4 million. Past custom builds include the 2019 “Old Crow” Mustang GT, 2018 Eagle Squadron Mustang, 2016 “Ole Yeller” Mustang and 2015 Mustang Apollo Edition.
To learn more about custom Mustang Mach-E check out Auto News with Laura Reynolds.
Photo Credit: Ford