Starting today, Ford is taking applications for the position of Brand Ambassador. But instead of paying you, you’ll have to give them somewhere in the neighborhood of $400,000. It’ll be worth it, however, because the job comes with an incredible perk, a 2017 Ford GT.
According to Henry Ford III, global marketing manager for Ford Performance and grandson of Henry Ford II who oversaw the original GT40 program, his eponymous car company is looking for 500 people who want not just to buy the new GT, but “to drive it on the street, drive it on the track, take it to events and share it with the world.” So when you go to the GT website to apply for the privilege to own one of these American supercars, you better be prepared to do a little work for Ford.
In addition to owning an all-new supercar, you’ll also be part of a whole new purchase and ownership experience. All GT owners will be assigned a GT concierge who will help you through the purchase and delivery process, as well as be available 24/7 after you take delivery of the car to help with anything you need. Mr. Ford told me they benchmarked other supercar manufacturers including Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren and Aston Martin to ensure owners of the new Ford GT experience world-class service before, during and after the sale.
Ford said they are expecting more applicants than the number of cars that will be produced so they’ll choose applicants based on a number of criteria including each applicant’s interest in Ford cars, the GT and in collectible cars, each applicant’s relationship with Ford, and each applicant’s involvement in the motorsports community.
As for the new car’s place in the company’s history, Mr. Ford said, “It’s definitely a celebration of our successful past at Le Mans. It’s also forward looking. There are a lot of innovations on this car that will benefit the entire Ford line, like the 600 horsepower EcoBoost engine, carbon fiber and aluminum construction and active aerodynamics.”
After a rocky start in its first race at the 24 hours of Daytona, the Ford GT teams made great strides with top 10 finishes at Sebring. They are looking forward to a return to Le Mans this summer to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the GT40s 1-2-3 finish in 1966 and hoping the car, team and drivers continue to improve with each race.
Given the limited number of cars available per year, just 250, and the interest that’s been shown since its debut in January 2014, you’ll want to head to the Ford GT website right away. There you’ll be able to configure your new car and fill out your application. The application process is open now and will end on May 12. There is no deposit required upon submitting your application and deliveries will begin in late 2016 for those lucky enough to qualify.
The competition for ownership of these cars will be intense. How do I know? Because one of those applicants will be me.
Good luck.