One-hundred-year-old gauge powerhouse Stewart Warner announced the completion of a specially engineered gauge package designed for the Ford Shelby GR-1. The Stewart Warner Performance team accepted Ford's challenge to create truly revolutionary instrumentation in October 2004. Engineers worked in collaboration with Ford designers to create the technologically advanced gauges complete with the Ford-concept "watch-style" appearance.
"It was our great honor to lend Stewart Warner's gauge expertise to this extraordinary project. We are thrilled to continue the legacy of Ford-Stewart Warner partnerships with the Ford Shelby GR-1," said Oddie Leopando, CEO/President of Stewart Warner Performance.
The 100-year-old Stewart Warner Brand is no stranger to Ford. Stewart brand gauges were used in the first Model-T produced by Ford, and the partnership later flourished with collaborative efforts on the Shelby Mustang and Cobra dating back to the 60's through the next generation Ford Shelby GR-1.
The Ford Shelby GR-1 was unveiled at the 2005 North American International Auto Show held in Detroit, Mich. The instrument panel includes five Stewart Warner Performance gauges boasting ground-breaking technology. An Analog tachometer and combined digital speedometer feature high-intensity LED backlighting and a unique fiber-optic pointer. Dual microprocessors were installed into a tiny 2-inch oil temp/oil pressure gauge providing accurate calibration and communication with the car's central computer. Turn signals and four warning lights were also integrated into the display. The overall instrument design was inspired by high-end precision watches, and the modern style is reflected in the technological, aesthetic and functional elements of the instruments.
"We accomplished a great deal during this project, including the completion of what could be one of the first-ever fiber-optic pointers, which takes readability to an entirely new level," said Robert Viscosi, Ford Shelby GR-1 Program Manager at Stewart Warner Performance.
All instruments designed for the Ford Shelby GR-1 include a high-torque miniature motor and built-in microprocessor. "These innovations are unparalleled in the aftermarket, and are entirely unique to the industry," Viscosi said.