The Shelby GT500CR Carbon takes the classic 1967-68 Shelby Mustang in a new direction, combining its iconic muscle car styling with a carbon-fiber body, modern suspension technology, and up to 1,000 horsepower. The limited-production model is described as the world’s only officially Shelby-licensed carbon-fiber version of the classic muscle car.

The car made its appearance at the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where it was displayed at the FuelTech booth. The unveiling also marked the first appearance of the project at the event under Velocity Restorations ownership, introducing the future direction of its limited-production American performance cars.

Carbon-Fiber Construction Updates the Classic Shelby GT500

The GT500CR Carbon retains the familiar appearance of the 1967 Shelby GT500, including its distinctive front fascia, dual racing stripes, and muscular proportions. However, its construction differs significantly from the original steel-bodied model.

The carbon-fiber body features BASF Glasurit paint and Ringbrothers hood and trunk hinges. Its modern chassis combines Detroit Speed Aluma-Frame front suspension with QuadraLink rear suspension.

Nitron Elec-Tron electronically controlled shocks provide adjustable ride control. Forgeline Carbon Grudge wheels are paired with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.

Stopping power comes from Brembo CCM-R carbon-ceramic brakes, featuring 380 x 34 mm front discs with six-piston calipers and 380 x 28 mm rear discs with four-piston calipers.

Modern Interior Adds Comfort and Technology

The cabin combines classic Mustang styling with contemporary equipment. Features include Scheel-Mann seats, a custom center console, and a Dakota Digital instrument cluster.

The interior also includes an Ididit steering column and a Vintage Air air-conditioning system.

Audio equipment consists of Focal K2 speakers, a Mosconi amplifier, and an Alpine head unit. Dynamat sound-deadening material is installed to improve cabin refinement without completely eliminating the sound of the supercharged V8.

Three Performance Stages Deliver Up to 900 HP

The GT500CR Carbon is offered in three production configurations, beginning with a naturally aspirated Ford Performance Gen 4X Coyote 5.0-liter V8. Buyers can also select supercharged versions with higher power outputs.

• Stage 1: Gen IV Coyote 5.0-liter V8 without a supercharger, producing 500 hp and approximately 500 lb-ft of torque. Price: $549,900.
• Stage 2: Gen IV Coyote 5.0-liter V8 with a Whipple 3.0-liter supercharger, producing 700 hp and approximately 640 lb-ft of torque. Price: $624,900.
• Stage 3: Wegner-built Gen IV Coyote 5.0-liter V8 with a Whipple 3.0-liter supercharger, delivering 900 hp and approximately 800 lb-ft of torque. Price: $724,900.

All three configurations use Detroit Speed QuadraLink suspension. Stage 1 and Stage 2 models feature aluminum driveshafts and Wilwood 14-inch six-piston brakes.

The Stage 3 version upgrades to a carbon-fiber driveshaft and Brembo 14-inch six-piston carbon-ceramic brakes.

SEMA Show Version Produces 1,000 Horsepower

The GT500CR Carbon displayed at the 2026 SEMA Show features a more powerful setup than the production lineup’s Stage 3 configuration.

Its engine is a Wegner-built Gen 4X Coyote V8 paired with a Whipple 3.0-liter inverted supercharger, producing 1,000 hp.

Power is delivered through a Suncoast-built 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission, while a FuelTech FT700 standalone ECU manages engine operation and traction control.

GT500CR Carbon Prices Start at $549,900

The production model starts at $549,900 for Stage 1, rises to $624,900 for Stage 2, and reaches $724,900 for Stage 3.

Every vehicle receives a unique Shelby serial number and is recorded in the Shelby American Worldwide Registry.

Each build requires more than 2,500 hours of work at a 135,000-square-foot facility in Pensacola, Florida.

The GT500CR Carbon combines the design of a late-1960s Shelby with carbon-fiber construction, modern engineering, and extensive customization. Its limited-production format targets collectors who want a distinctive classic Mustang that remains suitable for driving.