"High Gear" Chosen Concept for First-Ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered By Women

Thousands of fans voted for a satin black luxury Mustang concept in the first-ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. The project, which is a collaboration between Ford Motor Co. and the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), invited the public to view three concepts online and vote for the one they would like to see built by a group of female volunteers.



The winning concept known as "High Gear" was designed by Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co. Inspired by international products in categories such as jewelry, couture clothing and architecture, the concept is meant to stimulate the senses by fusing luxury and power. Highlights include Rosegold chrome accents throughout the exterior and interior, satin black body, plush quilted suede seats and a leather wrapped interior. Modifications will also be made to the engine, undercarriage, drive train and sound system.



"We appreciate our readers and fans helping us determine which concept will be used for this very exciting project," said Doug Evans, Executive VP of Source Interlink Media (SIM). SIM, a partner in the project, hosted the voting on several of its websites and will also host the physical build at its El Segundo, California, headquarters.

"The concept selected by everyone who voted is amazing," continued Evans. "It will be very exciting to see the vehicle transformed in just eight short weeks by the dedicated group of women participating in the project. The drive and talent this collaboration of women from the SBN, Ford and Source Interlink Media brings to this project is nothing short of phenomenal."

As title sponsor of the project, Ford Motor Co. donated a 2013 Ford Mustang GT for the project. Female members of the SBN will perform the hands-on modifications from July to August. The finished vehicle will debut at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, then auctioned off on eBay to raise money for the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund. The fund is dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket leaders and innovators.

Now here's my thoughts. I love, love, LOVE the concept of the whole shebang. It gives the underdogs a chance to shine, and in a male dominated industry, women are the underdogs. Not only did we come up with the idea, but we get a chance to customize it as well. But what I didn't like was that two out of three of the designs were from the same woman who ironically worked for Ford. So you know she was going to win, she had Ford behind her!!! I'm positive that women who are apart of the SEMA Businesswomen's network who don't work for Ford are capable of designing a Ford Mustang. I know one thing, I'm gonna see about joining the SEMA Businesswomen's Network. I know I'm a little rough around the edges (I am a brash New Yorker), but I can bring something to the table. Who doesn't love a woman with a New York accent?