Mach-E Dons Tribute Livery to WW2 Women Pilots
Honoring the Women Airforce Service Pilots who served in WW2, Ford has created this one-off Mustang Mach E.
Ford Tradition
It has become something of a tradition for Ford Motor Company. Each year since 2008, the auto manufacturer has been creating a specially designed Mustang to be auctioned off, with proceeds directed towards the Experimental Aircraft Association’s (EAA) educational programs. The year 2017 was an exception, as the vehicle donated was an F-150 Raptor, instead of a Mustang.
Mach-E
This year's Ford donation is a Mustang as well, albeit an electric vehicle, and an SUV! The Mach E is marks the first EV that's been donated for EAA. The livery and accent colors are designed to pay tribute to the female pilots who served as volunteers. These brave women had the responsibility of flying aircraft from factories into military bases around the world.
Custom Design
The Mach-E is designed on the interior and exterior with custom touches that pay homage to the Women Air Force Service Pilots. It proudly displays badges all around, including the US Army Airforce Star on each side. Also visible is the number 38 in multiple locations around the car. This signifies the 38 volunteers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
A Memorial Project
In addition to the metallic silver and dark grey, the color scheme also includes bright yellow accents, taking inspiration from the aircraft flown by the Women Airforce Service Pilots. Ford designer Kristen Keenan spoke proudly of the experience of creating the Mach-E's unique design. “It was hard not to get a little teary-eyed as we put the finishing touches on this vehicle. I have never worked on a memorial project before. Commemorating this group of women through the vehicle design was an honor,” she remarked.
Honoring Heros
While we're now honoring the memory of these female pilots, sadly, they were not recognized as active military personnel until 1977. The Women pilots flew over 60 million miles during the course of the war, and with all different types of planes.
Auctioned For a Good Cause
The Mustang Mach-E was donated to be auctioned during the 2021 Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture air show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin late last month. And the proceeds from the sale will serve to provide young women and underserved youths more access to a career in the aviation industry.
