Ford unveils 2010 Shelby GT500 - Revamp seen as sign of progress - photos at link

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Ford unveils 2010 Shelby GT500
Revamp seen as sign of progress
BY BRENT SNAVELY • FREE PRESS BUSINESS WRITER • JANUARY 1, 2009
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Ford Motor Co. is showing the world that it's capable of investing in high-end performance -- at a time when competitors are cutting back -- with the introduction of its redesigned 2010 Shelby GT500.

While Ford released photographs of the new vehicle to the public today, the sports car is to be on display at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, which begins Jan. 11.

With an eye-popping 540 horsepower, the new Shelby GT500 is the top-of-the-line model in Ford's Mustang family. It's what industry experts call a halo vehicle, meaning it generates attention that translates into sales of the manufacturers' less-expensive models, as well as overall respect for the brand and company.

In addition to increased horsepower, the new vehicle also features an aggressive new exterior design, as well as a variety of performance improvements.

"The ability to produce a niche vehicle is almost a statement to the rest of the world saying, 'We can do this. We are not chopping models. We are creating models,' " said Karl Brauer, editor in chief at Edmunds.com.

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