The Mustang Supercars prototype was given its first shakedown at Queensland Raceway by DJR Team Penske drivers Scott McLaughlin and Fabian Coulthard as Supercars commences the homologation process that will determine the final specification of the Mustangs that will race next year.

The Mustang Supercars package has been jointly developed Ford teams DJR Team Penske and Tickford Racing, with assistance from Ford Australia and the Ford Asia-Pacific Design Studio.

The Mustang Supercar will replace the Falcon FG-X model which has been out of production since Ford closed its Australian manufacturing operation some two years ago. It will be the first two-door car to race in the Australian Touring Car Championship in a quarter of a century.

DJR Team Penske Team Principal Ryan Story was happy with what was achieved in the first day of testing.

“To see Mustang on track for the first time is a great milestone, as we’ve been working on this project in earnest since November last year,” Story said. “It is a testament to everyone involved.

“It’s an encouraging start. The car looks fantastic, and both drivers reported that the car has plenty of promise. We couldn’t be more pleased with how things progressed today.”

Tickford Racing team manager, Tim Edwards, said the signs were positive: “It’s very early stages, but the car is shaping up extremely well, and we’re keen for the next test.

“The Mustang resonates with fans, and we know that circulating won’t be enough – Mustang has to be gunning for race wins, championships and of course Bathurst, and everyone involved is working tirelessly to make this happen. It’s a great team effort.”