An absolute performance car that sports astounding track capabilities, the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 now offers some extra features. This time the automaker revealed about the car’s Launch Control System, which allows the vehicle to take-off smoothly even if the condition of road is not at the best. Once the launch control system is activated, the driver should stomp on the accelerator pedal and then swiftly release the clutch pedal. As a result the electronics will boot and hold the engine steady and manage the rear brakes to allow the optimum amount of wheel slip for maximum traction.

“Launch control is essentially a special mode of the traction control system that integrates the brake and engine management systems to keep the tires balanced on the peak of the mu-slip curve in order to achieve maximum thrust,” explains John Pfeiffer, senior engineer, SVT Vehicle Engineering. “With so much more power and torque on tap from the new 5.8-liter V8, launch control makes it easier for drivers to take advantage of the performance,” he added.

“We recognize not every driver has the same style, and surface, tire and climate conditions vary. Most of our competitors’ launch control systems have a fixed engine launch speed. We’ve given Shelby GT500 drivers the ability to adjust the engine speed to achieve best and most consistent performance, no matter where and when they drive,” said SVT Engineering supervisor Mr. Eddie Khan.

Powered by a 5.8 liter supercharged V8 engine generating 662 horsepower and 631 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 weighs in at just 3,850. Pricing details have also been revealed and it starts at $54,200 for the coupe and $59,200 for the convertible.

via Egmcartech