FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Small Volume Manufacturer Pioneers New Methods
IRVINE, Calif. — The Saleen S7, unveiled at the 2000 Monterey Historic Races, is an American supercar. Like most things American, the S7 has its roots in other parts of the world, as the internationally known specialty vehicle manufacturer searched the world over for top components for its new vehicle.
“Niche manufacturing is about using the best available from the world’s high-quality suppliers,” said Steve Saleen, president and founder of Saleen, Inc. “It’s a non-traditional way to build a car, but for small-volume manufacturing it’s the most effective and efficient method to bring a quality car to market quickly and with minimal cost. And I can tell you the big car companies are watching us very closely.”
For example, the 2001 S7 utilizes world leading Brembo supplied brakes from Italy, a Ray Mallock, Ltd (RML) chassis, and numerous elements from suppliers in the Midlands area of the United Kingdom, a region that is to motorsports what the Silicon Valley is to the world of computers. Adding to the international flavor, the S7 was wind tunnel tested at the University of Glasgow in Scotland.
“The S7 reflects a “best-in-practice” philosophy,” said Saleen. “We handpicked the top OEMs [Original Equipment Manufacturers] from around the globe to produce the best vehicle possible.”
Saleen selected RML to assist with engineering and design work for the Saleen S7, the first joint venture between the companies, because of their outstanding chassis and suspension reputation. The pre-production chassis and body were constructed at RML’s facilities in Wellingborough, England, while the final assembly of the prototype car took place at Saleen’s facility in Irvine, Calif. The two companies have entered into an agreement to work together on the development of cars for both street and race use.
“As we expand our product line, having the talents and expertise of RML available to augment our own design and engineering staff will create even better vehicles,” said Saleen. “The automotive world is rapidly evolving and Saleen is evolving to continue to offer enthusiasts and racing teams the ultimate in performance, technology and value.”
The Saleen S7 is certified for sale in both the United States and United Kingdom. Designed and built at Saleen’s Irvine, California manufacturing facility, the S7 is sold in the U.S. through select Saleen Certified Ford dealers and other newly added Saleen Certified dealers specializing in exotic automobiles. Vehicles for Europe and the Middle East will be produced at a satellite facility in conjunction with RML located in England. Worldwide volume is projected to be 300-400 cars over the estimated four-year production run. Work has begun on a less-expensive, higher volume model that will help achieve sales goals.
The Saleen S7 went on sale at its introduction at the famed Monterey Historic Races on August 19, 2000. First vehicles will be delivered to customers in the second quarter of 2001. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is $375,000.
The 2001 Saleen S7 is a proof of concept for what Saleen, Inc. has been building for 17 years. As a federally certified specialty vehicle manufacturer, Saleen has produced over 7000 vehicles – using and perfecting the efficient Niche Manufacturing process, which is now being studied and adopted by the world’s major automakers as they strive to quickly and economically bring small volume products to market.
Saleen, Inc. facilities include total research, design, engineering, and manufacturing capabilities. The company’s line also includes the Saleen S281 Mustang, Saleen XP8 Explorer, the SR Widebody, Saleen Performance Parts, and Saleen Engineering and Certification Service.
Contact:
Michael F. Hollander, Pacific Communications Group – 310.224.4981
S7 Release, S7 Chassis, S7 Engine, S7 Body and Design, S7 Features, S7 Manufacturing
