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Saleen

From Alfawiki
Adapted from the English Wikipedia article Saleen, available under CC BY-SA 4.0Updated 25 July 2025
Saleen Automotive, Inc.
Company typePrivate
IndustryAutomotive
Founded1983
FounderSteve Saleen
Headquarters
Corona, California
,
United States
Area served
United States, China (joint venture)
Key people
Steve Saleen (Founder), Charlie Wang (former CEO of Jiangsu Saleen Automotive Technology)
ProductsHigh-performance sports cars, automotive components

Saleen Automotive, Inc., commonly referred to as Saleen (/səˈliːn/), is a U.S.-based manufacturer specializing in high-performance sports cars and automotive components. Established in 1983 by entrepreneur Steve Saleen, the company operates as a privately owned entity with its headquarters located in Corona, California.

The company's hallmark vehicle, the Saleen S7, debuted in 2000 and is distinguished by its entirely in-house construction featuring a mid-engine layout, making it unique among production cars for not utilizing an existing chassis platform. As of 2019, Saleen's offerings included the Mustang-derived S302, the Ford F-150-based Saleen Sportruck and Sportruck XR, the Saleen Tesla GTX, the newly introduced Saleen S1 sports car, along with a limited-edition successor to the S7 LM.

In 2017, Saleen formed a strategic alliance with businessman Charlie Wang to launch Jiangsu Saleen Automotive Technology in Rugao, China, focusing on the Chinese automotive market. Wang took on the role of CEO for this joint venture. The partnership produced the Maimai electric vehicle, which was released in 2019 and featured a maximum speed of 100 km/h and an estimated range of 305 km based on the European driving cycle; however, sales were minimal, with only 27 units sold by April 2021.

The company encountered major difficulties when Chinese officials accused Wang of misappropriating nearly $1 billion in government funds, prompting his escape to the United States. Following this, the Nantong Intermediate People's Court mandated the auctioning of the joint venture’s assets in May 2022.

This collaboration represented a pivotal chapter in Saleen's international expansion and business development strategy but was ultimately compromised by governance challenges that affected both its market presence and financial outcomes.

1980s

In 1983, former professional Formula Atlantic racer Steve Saleen established Saleen under the name "Saleen Autosport." The initial production lineup launched in 1984 consisted of three hatchback models. By 1985, Saleen had introduced the first factory-certified supercharger on a production Mustang, pioneering the application of a centrifugal supercharger on late-model Ford Fox platform Mustangs.

By 1986, Saleen had entered competition within the Sport Car Club of America racing circuit using a specially prepared Mustang. A significant triumph at the 24 Hours of Mosport that same year bolstered Saleen’s reputation in motorsports and contributed to its commercial growth throughout the late 1980s.

1990s

Responding to increasing demand in 1990, Saleen expanded its offerings by launching Saleen Performance Parts, broadening both product lines and services. The introduction of the S351 in 1994 featured a proprietary Saleen-developed 351 cubic-inch engine. Notably, development continued on this EPA-compliant engine even after Ford transitioned to modular V8 engines in 1996.

In 1995, Steve Saleen partnered with entertainer Tim Allen to form the Saleen-Allen "RRR" Speedlab race team, boosting brand recognition. By 1997, Saleen had diversified into new segments by unveiling a Ford Contour concept vehicle and launching the Saleen XP8 SUV based on the Ford Explorer platform. During this era, the company restructured and adopted the name "Saleen, Inc." to better align with its expanding global footprint and evolving business model.

2000s

In 2000, Saleen introduced its premier model, the Saleen S7, a mid-engine sports car delivering exceptional performance and priced just below US$400,000. The S7 achieved four GT championship victories in 2001 and set multiple records at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, distinguishing itself as Saleen's sole production vehicle featuring a unique chassis design.

By 2001, Saleen shifted its manufacturing operations to a newly established 100,000-square-foot plant located in Irvine, California. The following year, the company secured a contract to handle assembly and painting for the Ford GT, elevating Saleen to tier-1 supplier status for Ford Motor Company. In 2003, Saleen expanded its footprint by entering into a manufacturing and licensing partnership aimed at distributing vehicles within the Canadian market.

In 2004, Saleen further grew its capacity by investing $15 million in a 203,000-square-foot facility in Troy, Michigan. This site incorporated state-of-the-art paint and assembly lines dedicated to fulfilling Ford's contract for the GT. By 2005, Saleen broadened its global reach through a collaboration with a Tokyo-based importer, enabling vehicle distribution across Japan.

Saleen launched its inaugural branded retail outlet in Irvine in 2006, providing direct access to vehicles, parts, and branded merchandise for consumers. In 2007, the company partnered with Chrysler to deliver paint services for the fourth-generation Dodge Viper.

2010–present

In 2010, after acquiring rights to manufacture 42 units, Revstone produced the 2011 Saleen Mustangs in Detroit. During this period, Steve Saleen marketed Mustangs under the SMS brand due to lacking ownership of the Saleen trademark. By late 2011, an agreement among Ford, Revstone, and Steve Saleen permitted him to resume production under his own name.

On June 26, 2013, Saleen transitioned into a publicly traded company through a reverse merger, listing on the OTC Bulletin Board while Steve Saleen maintained majority control. Later that year, the company consolidated its operations—including manufacturing, R&D, and paint facilities—into a unified four-acre campus situated in Southern California.

In 2014, Saleen expanded its distribution network into China and unveiled the Foursixteen, an all-electric performance vehicle based on a modified Tesla Model S. Despite these advances, by the end of that year the company faced severe financial distress with mounting debt and bankruptcy threats. To generate capital in 2015, Saleen offered investors Mustangs in exchange for contributions exceeding $1 million and resolved litigation related to its business conduct.

The Securities and Exchange Commission revoked Saleen's securities registration on October 12, 2017, reverting the firm back to private ownership. By 2022 reports indicated that Saleen was soliciting small-scale investors requiring minimum investments of $500 while maintaining only $14,000 cash reserves as of September 2021.

2017–19

In 2017, Steve Saleen teamed up with business partner Charlie Wang to establish "Jiangsu Saleen Automotive Technology," a joint venture based in Rugao within Jiangsu province. Wang assumed roles as Chairman and CEO while holding majority ownership. Previously a lawyer and CEO of unsuccessful automotive startups, Wang led alongside state-owned Nantong Jiahe which invested CNY3.4 billion (approximately US$481.3 million) for a 34% equity stake. The venture’s objective was to manufacture and market Saleen vehicles tailored for China’s automotive market with aspirations to rival brands such as Porsche.

The enterprise benefited from government incentives coupled with capital injections exceeding CNY21.8 billion (around US$3 billion), facilitating construction of two factories capable of producing up to 220,000 vehicles annually—including 50,000 fully electric cars and 20,000 supercars. CEO Wang highlighted their competitive edge through smart manufacturing processes and stringent financial oversight.

In 2019 Jiangsu Saleen showcased an updated version of the Saleen S7 Le Mans hypercar at Beijing’s Bird’s Nest stadium and promoted Rugao-produced models like the "MAC" crossover. Nevertheless, their sole mass-market offering was the entry-level electric microcar named "MaiMai," launched that year with a maximum speed of 100 km/h and a driving range of 305 km. Despite production costs reaching CNY5 billion (US$751 million) and pricing at CNY160,000 (US$24,048), sales remained minimal—only 31 units sold by mid-2022.

This joint venture represented an ambitious attempt to penetrate China’s expanding EV sector but encountered difficulties achieving significant market share and sustained profitability amid operational hurdles.

2020–present

In February 2020, the company ceased operations at its Rugao manufacturing plant.

By April 2020, Qiao Yudong, a former senior legal manager, accused chairman Charles Wang of inflating the costs related to technology investments and misappropriating millions by significantly overstating the worth of "car-making technologies"—initially valued between $500,000 and $20 million but allegedly exaggerated to figures ranging from $826 million to $1.1 billion. Wang reportedly exchanged these overvalued assets for $283.2 million in cash and equity, which diluted the holdings of state-owned investors. Nantong Jiahe, holding a one-third stake, initiated a financial review that revealed suspected forged documents and abuse of CEO authority for fund misappropriation. The state-owned investor subsequently alerted law enforcement authorities.

By June 2020, the Nantong Intermediate People's Court intervened by confiscating all company assets, shutting down two Saleen Auto plants, freezing bank accounts, closing the Shanghai office, expelling foreign staff members, and freezing equity in four shell companies tied to Wang and Saleen Auto. Chinese officials alleged that Wang had embezzled close to $1 billion in public funds. Wang fled to the United States and later claimed he resumed his legal profession, dismissing the allegations as political persecution without providing further details or intentions regarding a return to China. In July 2020, he filed a lawsuit against the joint venture’s Chinese partner in Hong Kong for breach of contract concerning CNY300 million (approximately US$42.8 million).

On May 30, 2022, the Nantong Intermediate People's Court auctioned off the company’s assets, including an incomplete production facility in Rugao initially slated for a 2019 launch with an annual capacity of 150,000 vehicles. This event signified a considerable decline in Saleen Auto's expansion and market standing amid persistent legal and financial difficulties.

CurrentTemplate:When models

Saleen 302 Mustang Saleen S1 Saleen Sportruck Saleen Sportruck XR Saleen GTX sedan
Engine 302 ci (5.0 L) V-8/302 ci (5.0 L supercharged V-8) 152 ci (2.5 L) turbocharged 164 ci (2.7 L) turbocharged/213 ci (3.5 L) turbocharged V6/302 ci (V8) 164 ci (2.7 L) turbocharged/213 ci (3.5 L) turbocharged V6/302 ci 5.0 L V8/302 ci (5.0 L supercharged V-8) AC induction motor
Power 475–800 hp (354–597 kW) 450 hp (340 kW) 300–700 hp (220–520 kW) 340–700 hp (250–520 kW) 380–691 hp (283–515 kW)
Torque 410–600 lb⋅ft (560–810 N⋅m) 350 lb⋅ft (470 N⋅m) 410–600 lb⋅ft (560–810 N⋅m) 400–600 lb⋅ft (540–810 N⋅m) [convert: invalid number]
Curb weight 3,705 lb (1,681 kg) 2,685 lb (1,218 kg) 4,069–5,697 lb (1,846–2,584 kg) 4,069–5,697 lb (1,846–2,584 kg) [convert: invalid number]

Legacy models

Decade Production car series Race specific cars
1980s Saleen Mustang (1984–1989), SA-5 (1988), SporTruck (1988), SSC (1989) R Model (1985–1989), R Model Sportruck (1987–1989)
1990s "Saleen Mustang" (1990–1993), Saleen SC (1990–1993), SporTruck (1992), SA-10 (1993), S351 (1994–1999), Saleen SR (1994–1999), Saleen S281 (1996–1999), SA-15 (1998), Saleen XP8 (1998–1999) "R Model Sportruck" (1990–1991), R Model (1990–1993), Saleen SR (1995–1999)
Decade Production car series Race specific cars
}

Specialized Vehicles

Saleen's lineup of specialized vehicles encompasses concept cars, limited editions, and models not intended for mass production.

Year Model Overview
1986 Ford Tempo Conceptual prototype vehicle
1988 Special Service Saleens Fourteen custom-built law enforcement vehicles created for Damerow Ford in Beaverton, Oregon; these units remained under Saleen's ownership.
1989–1990 California Edition GT Saleens Fifty non-sequentially numbered units manufactured for Ford at Sears Point Raceway and distributed through dealership networks.
1989 Seal Beach Police Car A bespoke pursuit vehicle designed specifically for the Seal Beach Police Department.
1989 Eagle One Giveaway Cars Promotional Saleen hatchbacks awarded to Chief Auto Parts customers and top-performing employees.
1992–1993 GT Sport by Steve Saleen Special edition models produced without serial numbering.
1993 RRR Unique S302 unit crafted for actor and Saleen driver Tim Allen.
1994 V-6 Sport by Steve Saleen Entry-level offering equipped with a supercharged V-6 engine producing 220 horsepower.
1996 Ford Windstar One-off custom vehicle built expressly for Tim Allen.
1999 Ford Contour Concept car model.
2002–2004 Saleen/Bonspeed Thunderbird Joint special edition collaboration, with only three units produced before the initiative was discontinued.
2004 Ford Mustang GT-R Concept Created by Saleen Special Vehicles in Troy, Michigan; premiered at the New York Auto Show featuring Kid Rock.
2007 Bumblebee and Barricade Hero and antagonist vehicles constructed for the Transformers movie series.
2007–2008 Harley-Davidson Edition Ford F-150 Manufactured by Saleen Troy, outfitted with a supercharged Series VI engine and performance upgrades for Ford Motor Company.
2007–2008 S5S Raptor Concept supercar aimed at the exotic market under $200,000, designed to rival Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Aston Martin models.
2008–2009 Sleeper GT S/C Limited-run Mustang GT coupes converted under Gurney liquidation in Vista Blue and Performance White finishes.

Saleen Performance Parts

Saleen's aftermarket division specializes in high-performance automotive components such as custom wheels, exhaust systems, braking systems, and superchargers.

  • Superchargers
    • Series I – Introduced in 1998 as Saleen’s inaugural supercharger system, utilizing an Eaton Roots-style design.
    • Series II – Released in 2001, this updated Eaton M90 Roots-type supercharger delivered enhanced performance improvements.
    • Series III – Featured a larger Eaton supercharger increasing displacement from 90 cubic inches to 112 cubic inches.
    • Series IV – Transitioned to a twin-screw rotary compressor design with a displacement of 1.6 liters.
    • Series V – Marked the first fully internally developed forced-induction system employing Lysholm rotary screws with a displacement of 2.3 liters.
    • Series VI – An upgraded iteration of Series V offering increased boost pressure; compatible with 2005–2009 Ford Mustang models, as well as the 2004–2008 Ford F-150 5.4L, Expedition, Lincoln Mark LT, and Navigator vehicles.
    • Saleen Shakercharger – A ram-air intake system integrating the Series VI supercharger combined with a functional hood scoop, engineered through Saleen’s internship program.
  • iPod Adapter – Available as either factory-installed or aftermarket through Speedlabs; this accessory enables iPod connectivity across the entire Saleen product range.
  • 2005–2009 Mustang HID Headlamps – OEM bi-xenon headlamp assemblies that represented the sole street-legal HID lighting option for Mustangs during this timeframe.
  • Saleen Mustang Scenic Roof – A full glass roof panel replacing the standard coupe roof on Mustang-based models, meeting NHTSA certification requirements.
    • Frost Touch Scenic Roof – An electronically switchable smart glass variant that transitions between transparent and opaque states.
  • Watt's Link – A proprietary rear suspension linkage developed in 2007 specifically to enhance handling on Ford Mustangs from model years 2005 to 2009.

Colorlab Automotive Paints

In 1995, during the development of the Saleen SR, Saleen established a strategic alliance with BASF to develop innovative paint formulas, including the distinctive "Mystic" color featuring a chameleon-like effect. This partnership was further solidified in 2014 when Saleen designated BASF as its sole paint supplier.

Motorsport

Saleen's involvement in motorsports commenced in 1984 when founder Steve Saleen entered the Saleen Mustang in competition at Sears Point Raceway. By 1986, the company was participating in the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Endurance Series, achieving victory at the 24 Hours of Mosport under the sponsorship of General Tire.

The following year, 1987, saw Saleen capture the SCCA Drivers' Championship along with Team, Manufacturer, and Tire titles, with drivers including Steve Saleen, Parnelli Jones, and George Follmer. Additionally, Saleen supported an all-female racing team that triumphed at Sears Point and performed strongly in the SCCA Race Truck Challenge.

From 1988 through 1991, Saleen dominated endurance events with multiple wins at Mosport and secured the SCCA Race Truck championship. The company broadened its motorsport footprint by entering the PPG Indy Car World Series in 1989 and joining the SCCA Trans-Am series in 1990, maintaining robust sponsorship ties with General Tire and Champion Batteries.

In the mid-1990s, Saleen collaborated with Tim Allen to create the Saleen/Allen "RRR" Speedlab team, which set numerous track records and claimed several SCCA Manufacturers’ Championships. The team made its debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1997, marking a pivotal achievement for the Mustang brand on an international stage.

The late 1990s continued to bring success with wins in the Spanish FIA GT championship and sustained superiority in SCCA contests. In 2000, Saleen excelled within the Grand American Road Racing series by securing Drivers', Manufacturers', and Team Championships.

The launch of the Saleen S7R race car in 2001 ushered in a new competitive chapter. Customer teams piloting the S7R secured four Drivers’ Championships across American LeMans, European LeMans, Grand Am, and Spanish GT series. The S7R notched an impressive 19 victories out of 32 races during its inaugural season, including prestigious events such as the 12 Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Between 2002 and 2004, the S7R maintained global dominance by winning multiple Drivers’, Team, and Manufacturers' Championships. A highlight occurred in 2004 when it triumphed at Imola, Italy, outperforming competitors from Ferrari, Maserati, and Lamborghini.

In 2006, the Saleen/Oreca Race Team achieved both victory and fastest lap at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. That year also marked Saleen’s venture into supporting European formula racing teams by supplying S7 racecars and components designed to enhance performance on international circuits.

Saleen racing results

Years Series Tracks Teams Podiums Fastest Laps Pole Positions
20 20 98 25 249 126 127

1980s

1986 Competition Circuits Entrants Podium Finishes Fastest Laps Pole Positions
1 6 1 6 0 2
1987 Competition Circuits Entrants Podium Finishes Fastest Laps Pole Positions
1 6 1 10 0 2
Manufacturers' Champion
(Note: Detailed race-by-race data for seasons after 1987 has been streamlined to focus on aggregate performance indicators and significant accomplishments relevant to strategic business insights and market positioning.)

1990s

1995 Competition Circuits Participating Teams Podium Finishes Fastest Lap Achievements Pole Positions Earned
1 7 1 2 2 2
1996 Competition Circuits Contested Teams Entered Podiums Achieved Fastest Laps Recorded Pole Positions Secured
1 9 1 7 5 0
1997 Competition Series Number of Circuits Teams Participating Podium Appearances Fastest Laps Recorded Pole Positions Achieved
2 8 1 0 0 0

2000s

2000 Series Tracks Teams Podiums Fastest Laps Pole Positions
3 9 1 8 5 10
Manufacturers' Champion
2001 Series Tracks Teams Podiums Fastest Laps Pole Positions
5 24 7 34 26 24
Manufacturers' Champion
  • Competed extensively with the Saleen S7R chassis in prominent series such as ALMS, ELMS, Grand-Am, Spanish GT, and the Le Mans endurance race.
  • Recorded numerous podium finishes and fastest laps while capturing multiple pole positions.
  • Key participants included teams like Konrad Motorsport, RML Group, Park Place Motorsports, and Palau Motorsports.
  • Demonstrated a strong competitive presence in both European and American racing circuits with consistent top-tier results.
  • Successfully claimed the Manufacturers' Championship titles across various series.
2002 Series Tracks Teams Podiums Fastest Laps Pole Positions
  • Continued to display competitive performance using the Saleen S7R chassis in ALMS, Grand-Am, British GT, Spanish GT, and Le Mans Series events.
  • Prominent teams included Konrad Motorsport and Graham Nash.
  • Maintained a strong record of podium placements and pole position achievements.
  • Secured an additional Manufacturers' Championship, underscoring significant influence in the market.
  • Overview from 2003 to 2009: Throughout these years, the company consistently took part in international endurance competitions and GT championships such as ALMS, FIA GT Championship, FFSA GT Championship, LMES, and Grand-Am. Utilizing the Saleen S7R chassis worldwide, notable teams including Oreca, Larbre Compétition, Konrad Motorsport, and Graham Nash contributed to numerous podiums and pole positions. Several Manufacturers' Championships were earned during this timeframe, which enhanced brand visibility and expanded market penetration within motorsports. These racing endeavors supported corporate strategies by validating product performance and fostering global business growth through motorsport participation.

2010s

2010 Series Circuits Teams Podium Finishes Fastest Laps Pole Positions
4 7 2 9 0 4
Champion Manufacturer

OEM Development

Saleen expanded its original equipment manufacturer collaborations significantly in 2002 by obtaining a partial contract for assembly and painting on the 2004–2006 Ford GT.

From the 2007 model year onward, Saleen engineered a supercharger package for the F-150-based S331 model. Ford incorporated this as an officially sanctioned performance upgrade on its Harley Davidson Edition F-150 trucks. Additionally, at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, Chip Foose unveiled a limited edition F-150 featuring the Saleen-developed powertrain from the S331SC, underscoring Saleen’s prominent role in advancing performance enhancements within Ford’s global lineup.

External links

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