Ford says the all-new Ford GT supercar will offer the most advanced carbon fiber wheels to date, with improved style and functionality over current lightweight wheels in the industry. In addition to aesthetics, Ford says that the carbon fiber wheels offer a two big advantages over traditional aluminum wheels.
First, the carbon fiber wheels on the Ford GT are the same size as regular supercar wheels, but are structurally stiffer, and save more than two pounds of unsprung weight per wheel. Compared to the already featherweight standard wheels, the weight savings reduces inertia by a notable 25 percent. Secondly, a lighter wheel requires the suspension to do less work to control the hardware attached to it, and improves consistent contact with the road surface, improving traction and driver control. Lighter wheels can improve steering feel and dynamics as it requires less energy to accelerate or turn the wheels.
According to Autoblog, GM may not be far behind, as it is Cadillac’s V-Series models could also be candidates for carbon fiber wheels. Like Ford, GM would also gain carbon fiber support from Carbon Revolution.
