The Hybrid Ford Mustang Could Finally Become a Reality: The Return of a Promise That Never Came

Ford is once again considering partial electrification for its most iconic sports car, the Mustang, after years of silence and rumors.

Back in 2017, then–Ford CEO Mark Fields shocked enthusiasts by announcing a hybrid Mustang—a project that ultimately never materialized. However, it seems that this time might be different. According to the specialized outlet Ford Authority, the American manufacturer is actively developing a hybrid version of the current S650-generation Mustang, internally known as S650E. The report even claims that test mules are already on the road, although it remains unclear what type of hybrid system they are using.

A risky bet in a time of transition

The news arrives as automotive electrification remains a divisive topic. In fact, in 2024, current Ford CEO Jim Farley stated that the company has no plans for an all-electric Mustang, though it remains “open to a partially electrified model.” Moreover, Ford Performance has been experimenting with hybrid powertrains focused on performance, suggesting that the electric component could serve a sporty rather than a purely ecological purpose.

For now, it’s uncertain whether the hybrid Mustang will actually reach production—or when. The U.S. regulatory landscape, along with the rollback of fuel economy standards under the Trump administration, has slowed some projects. And if the car doesn’t go on sale in its home market, it’s unlikely we’ll see it in Europe, where strict Euro 7 emissions rules make life increasingly difficult for high-performance combustion engines.

Even so, a hybrid Mustang could be the ideal solution to preserve power and excitement while meeting environmental regulations. Many European drivers still crave a Mustang with a combustion soul, and an electrified version could keep that legacy alive without sacrificing the performance that defines the American icon.

Finally, this project remains secondary within Ford’s broader strategy to reshape its European lineup following the discontinuation of the Fiesta and the upcoming end of the Focus. The Almussafes plant in Valencia is set to produce a new urban electric SUV, which will replace the EcoSport and complement the successful Puma. Still, the potential arrival of a hybrid Mustang shows that Ford has no intention of abandoning its most emotional and performance-driven spirit.