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Supercars

The Ford GT's optional carbon fibre wheels are excellent

Yes, they save weight and improve handling, but don't they look ace too?

Published: 17 May 2016

We need to talk about wheels. Specifically, the optional carbon fibre wheels available for the upcoming Ford GT supercar. Because alongside the many dynamic advantages claimed, they look quite gorgeous.

So, dynamics first. The optional carbon fibre wheels you see above measure 8.5in x 20in up front, and 11.5in x 20in at the rear, and are more than 2lbs lighter per wheel than the standard, forged aluminium wheels you get on the GT. This, reckons Ford, reduces inertia by 25 per cent.

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The lighter the wheel then, the less the suspension has to work to "control the hardware attached to it". So Ford reckons these carbon fibre wheels will improve consistent road contact, aid traction, improve the steering feel and handling, and even provide efficiency improvements.

There's more. Not only will these wheels make the GT sharper, they'll also make it quieter inside, helping comfort and refinement. They'll probably instigate world peace, too...

Most importantly, however, they look amazing. Prices haven't yet been announced for these carbon rims, but if you're shelling out a rumoured £400k for a GT, we assume a set of fancy wheels won't be a problem.

“Ford was the innovator as the first to offer mass-produced carbon fibre wheels as a standard offering on Shelby GT350R Mustang,” said Dave Pericak, Ford Performance global director. “Now, Ford GT will offer the next generation in carbon fibre wheels, with an advanced resin and fibre technology that gives our designers more freedom, while also showcasing the structure of the material’s weave.”

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They'll be available in a matte or glossy clearcoat finish. Worth it?

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