2022 Shelby GT500SE Resets Street Legal Production Car Record at Pikes Peak
Stock 2022 Shelby GT500SE managed to set a new record even amid some seriously challenging conditions.
With the iconic Pikes Peak International Hill Climb taking place recently in some rather sketchy conditions, few expected any records to fall. Regardless, that’s precisely what happened when Motorsports Hall of Famer Robert Prilika got behind the wheel of a 2022 Shelby GT500SE (Signature Edition) and proceeded to reset the record for the fastest true street legal production car in the 100th running of the legendary event, which is great timing as Shelby American is also celebrating its 60th year of existence, too.
The 2022 Shelby GT500SE that Prilika masterfully piloted into the record books was actually the very first Shelby vehicle that he’s ever driven, though he’s no stranger to racing in general, having previously competed in road racing, circle track, hill climbs, and endurance events across the United States. As for the car itself, well, it’s 100 percent bone stock save for the necessary safety equipment, and the team completed its break-in quite literally as the pony car was rolling in for practice prior to the actual race.
“The Shelby Signature Edition package for the current generation Shelby GT500 was designed to give the world-class Ford supercar even more capabilities,” said Vince LaViolette, Shelby American Vice President of Operations, Chief Test Driver, and Chief Designer. “Featuring additional power, enhanced cooling, weight reduction, and sharper handling, it was designed for both spirited street driving and ripping up the competition on a racecourse. The Pikes Peak Hill Climb was a great test for the powerful Shelby American car when in the hands of such a skilled, proven driver, and his team.” In spite of heavy rain, temperatures in the 40s, and some seriously thick fog, Prilika was able to prevail as a group of enthusiasts cheered him on.
“The morning conditions were some of the most challenging that I’ve ever faced in my many years driving up the hill,” Prilika said. “But the slick road and poor visibility did not deter us. My team ensured an outstanding result by preparing the car to overcome such unpredictable weather. And the Shelby GT500SE was incredible to drive. It was so powerful and poised that I confidently motored up the mountain at a very fast pace. It was mind-blowing to realize that I could’ve easily, and legally, driven home directly from the competition in it after having set the best time for a true stock production car on the mountain. That is simply amazing.”
Photos: Shelby American
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