Hot on the heels of the Mustang Mach-E all-electric crossover comes news it will get a hyper gas-powered running mate — the latest Mustang Mach 1. It returns after an 18-year hiatus. Based on previous Mach 1s, it has some big tires to fill, but fill them it will, says Ford.
The original Mustang Mach 1 arrived as a 1969 model. In that year it went on to set no fewer than 295 speed and endurance records. Back then it came with more power, especially the up-level Cobra Jet with 335 horsepower — many believe the true output was closer to 400 hp!
Regardless, it ran from zero to 96 km/h in 5.7 seconds, which is respectable even by today’s standards! It also earned a sport suspension, hood scoop, and graphics kit.
Its celebrity came when James Bond drove a 1971 Mach 1 through the streets of old Las Vegas. The chase is famous for the ’Stang going up on two wheels and driving through a narrow passage to escape the law. On the way into the passage, it was riding on the right-side tires; it exited with the left tires grounded! Oops.
Sadly, the Mach 1 died in the late ’70s and did not resurface until 2003. The second Mach 1 had a 305-hp 4.6L V8, which slotted it neatly between the 260-hp GT and the SVT Cobra with 390 stallions. This time around the same applies. The 2021 Mach 1 sits between the Mustang GT and Shelby GT 350. To give it gravitas, the latest iteration gets the mechanicals needed to make it the “most potent track Mustang” ever produced.
The cosmetics include a 3D mesh grille with a matte Pony badge; low-gloss accents; and 19-inch dark-painted wheels wearing Michelin PS4 tires, along with hood and side striping.
The meat of the Mach’s look is found in the redesigned front fascia — it has much larger air inlets in the lower bumper area. The design ups the downforce by 22 per cent when compared to the Mustang GT with the Performance Pack Level 1. The rework also helps to keep the under-hood temperatures to manageable levels when the engine is pushed to the max. To further enhance track endurance, the Mach 1 also gets engine oil and transmission oil coolers, along with the rear axle cooler from Shelby GT 500.
Mach 1 uses the same 5.0L V8 found in the Bullitt — this means 480 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. It works with the six-speed manual transmission taken from the GT 350, but this time around it has rev-matched downshifts. It also earns the Mustang GT’s twin-disc clutch and short-throw gear lever. For the shiftless, there will be a more robust 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
Any Mustang worth its salt must have serious bite to its exhaust. Take a look around back of the Mach 1 and it gets the GT 500’s rear valance along with oversized 114-millimetres (4.5-inch) tailpipes. This means it should bark with the very best of them!
As for the rest of the mechanicals, the Mach 1 gets retuned MagneRide dampers; larger anti-roll bars; firmer front springs; and a stiffer steering shaft. All measures are aimed at improving the track capability. Thankfully, the brakes have also been upgraded to handle the rigors of a hard session — along with a bigger brake booster, the under-belly pan improves brake cooling.
If more track ability is needed, with the Handling package comes a larger, higher-downforce front splitter and a rear spoiler with a Gurney flap. The combination increases the downforce by 150 per cent when compared to the Mustang GT with the Performance Pack Level 1 aboard.
Inside, there are hints of heritage with stripes; a revised instrument cluster; bucket seats; and a white cue ball shifter knob, along with a dash-mounted plate with the chassis number etched into it. The good news is the Bullitt’s Recaro seats are an option.
The Mustang Mach 1 holds a great deal of promise. Its mechanical upgrades suggest it will live up to the advanced billing — the best track Mustang ever produced. If there is a wish, it would be for one stallion for each of the Mach 1’s 52-year history — 502 just seems like such a nice round number!
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
