Akmal Azhar
Ford has unveiled a unique electric Capri designed to honour football legend Eric Cantona, commemorating one of the most infamous moments in sports history. The bespoke vehicle was presented to Cantona during a special ceremony at Ford France’s headquarters.
A Tribute to ‘King Eric’
Eric Cantona, often referred to as “King Eric,” is celebrated as one of Manchester United’s greatest players. His career was marked by both exceptional talent and a fiery temperament. In 1995, during a match against Crystal Palace, Cantona launched a “kung fu kick” into the chest of a supporter who had been taunting him.
The incident led to a nine-month suspension and a £20,000 fine, but Cantona returned to the pitch, securing four Premier League titles before retiring in 1997 at the age of 30.
Design Elements Reflecting Cantona’s Legacy
The special edition Capri incorporates several design features that pay homage to Cantona’s legacy. The headrests of the vehicle are embroidered with a silhouette of Cantona performing his infamous kick. Additionally, the centre console boasts a polished Plexiglass insert with a backlit inscription: “When a goat follows his hero in his car, it’s because the ruler on the racetrack returns. The Legend is back.”
Exterior and Interior Customisations
The Capri’s exterior is finished in Signal Orange, a nod to the 1970s Mark III Capri, and is accented with black racing stripes and the number 7, Cantona’s shirt number at Manchester United. The interior features Feeltek Luxury Grain trim with contrasting orange stitching and stripes, orange-edged floor mats, and a leather steering wheel also stitched in orange.
Other bespoke elements include a rear spoiler, 21-inch alloy wheels, a 3D crown badge on the D-pillars, and Cantona’s signature displayed on the front fenders alongside the Ford Design logo.
Performance Specifications
Under the hood, the special edition Capri is based on the RWD Extended Range trim, equipped with a 77kWh battery powering a 282bhp electric motor. The vehicle accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 6.4 seconds, maintaining a range of 369 miles. While the performance specifications remain consistent with the standard model, the unique design elements set this edition apart.
A Personalised Creation
The special Capri was developed by a select team of Ford designers who collaborated closely with Cantona to bring his vision to life. The final product was unveiled to Cantona in a ceremony that celebrated both his football achievements and his enduring influence.
This one-off electric Capri serves as a testament to Eric Cantona’s legacy, blending his sporting prowess with Ford’s innovative design.
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