Thanks to some sleuths on the Mustang7G forums, have more evidence that the next-generation Ford Mustang—known by its chassis code, S650—will be coming as a hybrid model for both the 5.0-liter V-8 and 2.3-liter I-4. It may also confirm that it will debut in 2022, as the LinkedIn profile discovered by the forum member (shown below) states that it’s coming for the 2023 model year.
According to the profile of the Product Development Engineer in question, he works on the “23MY Mustang 2.3L I4 Hybrid and 5.0L V8 Hybrid Pre-PS low and high pressure package analysis.” We know that “Pre-PS” usually refers to Pre-Program Start or Pre-Production Start, but it’s not completely clear from the context here what “low and high pressure package analysis” refers to. However, his previous work on the S550 Mustang related to the intake and exhaust systems, including developing and releasing “Air Intake low and high” pressure ducts among other things he listed—so it could be that he worked on the S650’s intake tract. Take that as you will.
Hybrid Ponycar
While knowing where this engineer worked with Ford is important, the key thing to take away from this is that it seems like Ford is gearing up to release the S650 Ford Mustang as a 2023 model with two hybrid options. One with their 5.0-liter V-8 and the other is likely the EcoBoost 2.3-liter I-4 —both of which, in non-hybrid form, are utilized in the S550. That also means we’re probably going to see a pre-production or prototype version drop sometime between now and 2022 in time for a 2023 model year production release. Barring any supply issues, of course. Bet you’re tired of hearing that excuse already.
What we don’t know is which end of the next Ford Mustang will be electrically driven. Ford released a patent of a new V-8 hybrid scheme in 2019. In that drawing, power was going to the rear wheels via mechanical means. However, power going to the front wheels was via electrical means with two motors, one for each front wheel and flanking each side of the oil pan. It’s still currently rumored that this is the hybrid design Ford is going with on the Mustang, but no word—official or otherwise—has been heard on this layout as of yet. Patent drawings are not always indications of products coming out anytime soon. That said, a hybrid AWD Mustang would be a serious break from tradition—and potentially, a serious performer.
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