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Press Release

SHOPPING AT 200 MPH – SALEEN STYLE!

A New Era in Automotive Retailing Roars In!

July 29, 2006 – IRVINE, CA – From the high-performance specialty automotive manufacturer, Saleen (www.saleen.com), now comes, THE SALEEN STORE!

Opening today, in the Irvine Spectrum, Orange County, California, is The Saleen Store. Saleen has created a unique shopping experience that will undoubtedly set a new standard in the automotive and the retail industry. The Saleen Store is so different that it has created a buzz, and that buzz has traveled almost as fast as the world’s fastest production car, the Saleen S7.

Extreme Experience

“Anything with the Saleen name attached to it has to exceed our uncompromising standards”.  Founder & CEO of Saleen, Steve Saleen states, The Saleen Store is a total brand experience — whether it’s through our legendary vehicles, aftermarket performance parts or hot new apparel, we guarantee a unique shopping experience”

“We have split our store in half, covering lifestyle and the technical performance side. On the lifestyle side, you’ll find a unique Saleen-branded performance automotive clothing line, posters and memorabilia.  As for the technical side, we’ll have people and interactive displays that can answer practically any question one might have about automobile performance,” Says Steve Saleen.

For car enthusiasts who have followed Steve Saleen and his Saleen Mustangs for over two decades it is not surprising that on one side of the store they are literally standing in the middle of a Saleen Extreme Mustang. Newcomers will see a vehicle dissected down the middle and will only emphasize the fact that The Saleen Store is truly one of a kind. There is an immediate realization that Saleen is passionate about its performance vehicles by exposing every detail of the Saleen Extreme, from the engine, drivetrain, to the suspension – viewers will see the technology that goes into the manufacturing an Extreme Saleen Mustang that produces 550 hp and 500 ft-lb. of torque.

On Display & Seamless Selection Service

Adding to the definitive drama of The Saleen Store are the cars currently on display:

  • The 435 hp Supercharged Saleen Mustang
  • The American Supercar, the 750 hp Saleen S7

Knowledgeable Saleen personnel are ready to talk about the innovations, technology, and performance figures of all Saleen models.  Discovery test drives will be available.

The Saleen Store can help to arrange vehicle purchasing, financing, administering trade-in assessments, as well as provide buyers with genuine Saleen Speedlab Aftermarket Parts sales and installation.  Guests considering purchasing a new Saleen will find it easy to do so with The Saleen Store’s zip-code-based referral service.  This seamless referral service originates at The Saleen Store and concludes at the guest’s nearest Saleen Certified Dealership.

Feel the Excitement

“Our guests can also experience the exhilaration of driving a Saleen S7 when they use our in-store race simulators. We have two state-of-the-art driving simulators, on which a Saleen S7 can race on some of the world’s famous racetracks,” says Steve Saleen.

“It’s a remarkable simulation that gives you a lot of feedback, so you feel every bump of the track, and the sensation of going up and down hills.  You can program the same specs as a real Saleen S7R race car – from the tire pressure to the percent of slip between the left and right tires.”

If that is not enough, The Saleen Store has a Saleen N2O Bar.  For people, menu items range from ice cream, water, soda, Red Bull and oxygen.  For their cars, nitrous oxide and hydrogen are available.  The store is sure to encompass a full-range, high-octane ambience for everyone.

Saleen Style Now A Fashion Statement

Visitors to The Saleen Store will have the opportunity to choose from the Saleen fashion collection. The current Saleen apparel line celebrates exceptional investment, exotic design, and exclusive ownership – the same attributes that are the same uncompromising standard in every Saleen vehicle. The Saleen line includes everything from hats, to leather jackets, to driving shoes, and beyond. Also available are Saleen-branded watches, pens, and other fine gifts.

Saleen – Born of Racing

Steve Saleen’s high-performance history delves beyond the first Saleen Mustangs that went on sale in 1984.  As a race car driver, Steve launched his racing career in 1969, where he competed in his first time trial. He then proceeded to win the first race he entered in 1970, and then moved to a professional racing career from the 1970’s through the 1980’s and 1990’s ranging from the Formula Super Vee, to the Formula Atlantic, and later to sports cars, truck and Indy car series.

Based on his racing and manufacturing successes, Steve catapulted the company to new heights by entering the luxury supercar niche in 2000 with the Saleen S7, at the famous Pebble Beach Concours de Elegance in Monterey, California.  By the following year in 2001, the race version was introduced – the S7R, and was quick to dominate racetracks around the world during its inaugural season. The Saleen S7 went on to win four Drivers’ Championships in four different series – American LeMans, European LeMans, Grand Am and Spanish GT!  Inside The Saleen Store, Born of Racing is a historical graphic tribute to all things that began and continue Saleen.

In the Heart of the O.C.

The Irvine Spectrum located in the heart of Orange County hosts over 11 million visitors each year. Steve Saleen comments, “People come for dining, entertainment, shopping and just gathering. It is a microcosm of the California lifestyle and our nation. With our Irvine manufacturing plant just minutes away, we have an exceptional opportunity to reach out to the consumer. Also, our representatives can schedule factory tours.”

Saleen – The Specialty Vehicle Manufacturer

As a Specialty Vehicle Manufacturer since 1984, Saleen offers a range of high-performance vehicles. The Saleen Extreme S281 (Supercharged and 3-Valve), S331 Sport Truck (Supercharged and 3-Valve), and the Saleen/Parnelli Jones Limited Edition Mustang, to America’s Supercar – the Saleen S7 Twin Turbo.

Everything at Saleen is literally built from the ground-up, by skillful hands.  The Saleen staff consists of a wide range of designers, R & D engineers and production team members that works together pushing the envelope of development, manufacturing, and certification of high-performance specialty vehicles.

“We truly see The Saleen Store setting a new standard for the future of automotive retailing,” said Steve Saleen.

More About Saleen

Saleen second factory is located in Troy, Michigan.  Like the Irvine facility, the Troy facility manufacturers the Saleen S281 Mustang inventory and will continue to assemble and paint the Ford GT through the end of its 2006 summer run.  Afterwards, Troy will begin to manufacture the S331 Sport Truck and the Saleen/Parnelli Jones Limited Edition Mustang.

Internationally, Saleen has expanded manufacturing efforts in Canada and in Saudi Arabia, as well as adding distributors in Japan, Italy, and Mexico. Saleen continues to grow domestically with the Certified Saleen Dealership network across the U.S., which is slated to reach nearly 300 dealers by fall of 2006.

On TV or at a Theatre Near You

In recent years, both the Saleen S7 and the S281s have been featured in the Hollywood limelight, and their demand continues to grow.  Appearing as “God’s Car”, the S7 arguably stole the show in “Bruce Almighty”, and later starred in 50 Cent’s music video, “Candy Shop”.

The S81s have had cameo appearances in “Hollywood Homicide”, “2 Fast 2 Furious”.

Well-Traveled History…What’s Next?

In the world of retail, no less!  As Saleen has established a prolific history in racing, automotive, and manufacturing, this only scratches the surface of what’s to come from Saleen.

The Store is Saleen’s latest journey to bring…

  • Extreme Performance
  • Exotic Design
  • Exclusive Ownership
  • Exceptional Investment
  • Experience It

You’ll find Saleen, Power in the Hands of a Few ® at the Irvine Spectrum!

Click here to participate in the discussion.

Product Review

THE SALEEN SOLUTION

By: HARVEY SCHWARTZ
Original Article: LACAR.COM
© All words and pictures by Harvey Schwartz

2006 S281 Supercharged

As a high-performance specialty vehicle designer and builder, Steve Saleen builds vehicles that are designed, engineered and manufactured in compliance with the same government guidelines as those of larger automotive companies – ensuring safety, emissions compliance and quality.

Headquartered inside an 180,000 square foot facility in Irvine, California, Saleen high-performance Mustangs are built by highly trained technicians whose work is double and triple checked as the car slowly goes down the line to completion. Saleen builds about seven custom Mustangs a day, and each one is built to order.

2006 S281 Supercharged

With the Saleen supercharged Mustang, you get a complete system of enhancements in styling, power, performance and interior comfort. The total package is carefully designed, engineered and rigorously tested on the street and the track. Everything here works together seamlessly. It helps when the same company designs all the components from the ground up. Saleen’s quality and workmanship is so well regarded by Ford that they back up every Saleen with a 24-month warranty.

I tested the all-new Saleen S281 Supercharged Mustang – a real thrill machine, with neck-snapping straight-line acceleration, superb handling ability on twisting roads, and eye-popping braking.

With the addition of the new, more powerful, Saleen-designed 2.3 liter Series VI integrated twin-screw supercharger with a dual-stage water-to-air intercooler, the V8 is further tuned up with a 3.55″ x 3.54″ bore and stroke, a Saleen Powerflash performance calibration upgrade to the CPU, and a Saleen performance air filter to bring in more air. The hot gases generated are exited through a Saleen design, 2.5-inch stainless steel performance quad-exhaust system with 4-inch wide, dual outlets in the center of the rear lower bumper, and one outlet at each muffler end. This exhaust really howls with a sweet bass sound when you start the engine, and whenever you give it more throttle, no matter your speed. You can hear the Saleen Mustang coming from a long distance away.

2006 S281 Supercharged

Power generated from the 4.6-liter V8 is raised significantly, up to 435 horsepower at 5,800 rpm, and a whopping 420 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. The supercharger works so easily that boost is set at just 4 psi. The supercharger whine is a great complement to the howl of the custom exhaust.

All that torque is channeled to the rear wheels via a Saleen quick-ration five-speed transmission with an 8.8-inch differential gear, and a ratio of 3.55:1 with the manual, and 3.31:1 with the optional 5-speed electronically controlled automatic. You can also option for the Saleen MaxGrip speed-sensitive limited-slip differential to get even more rubber to the pavement.

With the all-new Mustang’s stiffer and stronger chassis and frame, Saleen has a more solid foundation in which to mount the race-bred suspension, brakes, wheels and tires. The car is pinned to the ground up front with a MacPherson strut with lower control arm setup that includes Saleen Racecraft N2 struts with linear-rate coil springs, a 1.38-inch tubular stabilizer bar with urethane pivot bushings, and specially calibrated suspension settings. The rear suspension features the factory live axle located by three links, a Panhard rod, and upgraded with Saleen Racecraft N2 shocks, direct-acting linear coil springs, and a 0.79-inch stabilizer bar, all specially calibrated.

2006 S281 Supercharged

The car rides on big, wheel-well stuffing, 20 x 9, seven-spoke Saleen designed alloy wheels that are wrapped with high-performance Dunlop 275/35ZR20 Sport tires. My Saleen Mustang came with the optional 20 x 9 front and 20 x 10-inch rear seven-spoke, Saleen-designed alloy wheels wrapped around ultra-high-performance Pirelli 275/35ZR20 front and 27540ZR20 rear P Zero tires for the ultimate in traction and grip.

Wow, we’re talking ultra-high-performance. The 435 horsepower supercharged Saleen Mustang rockets out to 60 mph from a standstill in just 4.6 seconds and tops out at over 180 mph.

Quickly stopping the forward movement of the car are very powerful brakes. Up front are Saleen designed 14-inch slotted and vented aluminum rotors clamped with Saleen ABS four-piston calipers. The rear brakes are left factory since 80 percent of your braking power is generated from the front brakes. You can opt for the same front brake rotors and calipers in the rear for even stronger braking power.

2006 S281 Supercharged

Even with all this power and torque at my disposal, the car is well behaved in slow Los Angeles street traffic and when driving in stop-and-go rush-hour freeway traffic. The short-throw five-speed is so smooth and easy to operate, I never miss a gear change. At these slow speeds, the best part is the sweet and loud growl coming from the performance exhaust. The sound really turns heads, but it’s the unique, aggressive styling of the car that makes everyone even more curious.

The new Saleen air management aerodynamic bodykit is very aggressive and bold. The brilliantly styled body easily projects the enormous power and performance under the sheet metal. The body enhancements work to keep the front and rear solidly planted on the road during high speed driving, and when challenging the tightest curves. The Saleen-designed body enhancements include a power-dome hood with dual heat extractors, front aero ducting, injection-molded front fascia, injection-molded side skirts and door cladding, front blacked-out grille and integrated front turn signals, injection-molded rear fascia, rear center body panel, rear spoiler with end caps, and a very bold rear wing. Everywhere I stop, I’m asked if this is the new Saleen Mustang, “it’s bold, it’s loud, and it must be a whole lot of fun to drive.” It’s true in every case. You can tell that it’s a Saleen Mustang because of the Saleen badges front, side and in the rear.

2006 S281 Supercharged

What makes the new 2006 Saleen Supercharged Mustang even more enjoyable is the upgraded interior. You get custom Saleen leather sport bucket seats with extra side bolstering, louvered head rests with embroidered Saleen lettering on the seatbacks, a Saleen-design instrument cluster with a 200 mph speedometer, and 8,000 rpm tachometer with smaller gauges in the middle for fuel, oil pressure, engine coolant temperature and volts.

On the shelf above the center stack is a pod containing a Saleen-design boost gauge and an air temperature gauge. You’ll notice the Saleen-design dash vents and bezels, Saleen steering wheel badge, Saleen performance driving pedals with driver foot brace, and a Saleen close-ratio shifter with the new billet shift knob. Open the doors and you’ll also see Saleen door sill plates for a real custom look.

Completing the authentication is a Saleen windshield graphic, Saleen fender badge, Saleen signature graphic on the lower doors, Saleen-serialized engine bay plaque, Saleen-serialized bumper number, Saleen-serialized dash plaque, Saleen championship wreath, S281 custom floor mats, Saleen key fob, a Saleen ‘Eagle One detail kit, and a Saleen owners document portfolio and warranty guide.

2006 S281 Supercharged

Saleen also offers many custom paint schemes, plus optional Saleen-design HID headlamps, a large glass Scenic Roof for the coupe model, a Saleen convertible Sport Bar that my test convertible came with, and the Saleen Speedster package – which consists of the Sport Bar with wind deflector and Speedster designed three piece tonneau cover that fits in the trunk with its own storage bag when not in use.

I enjoy every second behind the wheel of the new Saleen supercharged Mustang, whether I’m stuck in traffic with all eyes focused on the car, or traveling at triple-digit speeds on the open road with adrenaline rushing through my veins. If you’re serious about Mustangs, and you want to deal directly with one custom builder, then Saleen should be on the top of your list. With Ford standing behind Saleen, it’s hard to go wrong.

2006 S281 Supercharged

SUMMARY JUDGMENT
Power in the hands of a few was never so benevolent.

For more information about Saleen products, go to www.saleen.com

More photos from Harvey Schwartz can be found at www.autofotos.com

2006 S281 Supercharged

SPECIFICATIONS
Name of vehicle:
2006 Saleen S281 Supercharged Ford Mustang GT Convertible

Price:
$56,535.00

Engine:
4.6-liter, three-valve, aluminum V8 with Saleen intercooled twin-screw,
water-to-air supercharger

Drive configuration:
Front engine/rear-wheel-drive

Transmission:
Five-speed Quick-Ratio manual transmission, five-speed automatic optional

Suspension:
Front-MacPherson struts, lower control arm, Saleen Racecraft system with N2
struts, with linear rate coil-over springs, 1.36-inch tubular stabilizer bar,
urethane pivot bushings, sport -tuned by Saleen

Rear-Live axle located by three-links, plus Panhard rod, Saleen Racecraft system
with direct-acting linear-rate coil springs, N2 struts, 0.79in. solid stabilizer
bar, sport-tuned by Saleen

Brakes:
Front-14-inch slotted and vented with 4-piston calipers
Rear-11.8-inch solid disc, single-piston calipers
ABS

Wheels/tires:
Front: 20X9 seven-spoke alloy wheels and P275/35ZR20 tires
Rear: 20X10 seven-spoke alloy wheels and P275/35ZR20 tires

Total length:
189.1 inches

Total width:
74 inches

Total height:
56 inches

Curb weight:
3,650 pounds

Press Release

SALEEN CONTINUES TO DOMINATE EUROPEAN RACING SERIES

The Saleen S7R Captures 1st & 2nd Place in Race 1 at Val de Vienne, France

IRVINE, Calif., June 29 /PRNewswire/ — On Saturday at Val de Vienne, France, and racing with an 80 kg penalty weight/ballast, Team Saleen/Oreca again captured another checkered-flag victory! Drivers Soheil Ayari and Bruno Hernandez drove flawlessly by overpowering the Ferrari and later surpassing the Corvettes that were in a distinct field of Vipers; marking their 7th win out of 10 races for this 2006 French GT season.

The Protek team, also driving their Saleen S7R, with drivers Francois Fiat and Dominique Dupuy, captured 2nd place — just 18.6 seconds behind the leading Saleen S7R.

Saleen Race Fans Grow in Numbers as S7R Innovations Lead to Podium Wins

With continuing victories achieved by the Saleen S7R, Saturday’s top finishes further strengthens the Saleen S7R’s growing market-share of race enthusiasts, who are now cheering for America’s Supercar at every opportunity!

As the Team Saleen/Oreca ranking continues to mount, they attribute their winning record to the S7R’s power, reliability, and advanced engineering, as well as to outstanding driving, and superior race strategies over the most prestigious race tracks in Europe.

Sunday’s Challenge

As for Sunday’s race, Team Saleen/Oreca’s S7R danced with the drizzle of the rain as Ayari — who grabbed the pole and set the fastest lap by nearly 1 full second — shot ahead at the onset of the race. But as the leaders approached to lap a slower class of racecars, Ayari had to take evasive action for a Porsche which resulted in contact with a Viper, and then retired the S7R from finishing the race.

Truly a daunting finish for race fans looking to cap off the weekend with another Saleen S7R podium finish! However for the Protek team, their drivers — Fiat and Dupuy, also racing with a 40 kg penalty weight/ballast for the previous day’s 2nd place finish, brought their Saleen S7R home to cross the finish line in 4th place.

While Team Saleen/Oreca’s early retirement was an unwelcome challenge, they were able to extend their lead in the series — to 188 points in the standings — while the other championship contenders’ were unsuccessful that weekend, Team Saleen/Oreca extended their lead by 75 points in the race for the championship!

Steve Saleen, president and CEO of Saleen, Inc., said, “We knew when we formed the alliance with the Oreca Group that was right. 7 wins out of 10 races for the French GT series means that Team Saleen/Oreca is utilizing Saleen’s turnkey race technology in the S7R.”

About Saleen, Inc.
Since the company’s inception in 1984, Saleen has produced over 10,000 complete and EPA certified vehicles, more than any other specialty manufacturer. In addition, Saleen has equipped more than 600,000 vehicles worldwide, further emphasizing their commitment to excellence.

An eight-time Manufacturers’ Champion in GT sports car racing, Saleen’s corporate facilities in Irvine, California include: research, design, engineering and manufacturing capabilities, as well as the coating/paint division. Saleen also has another manufacturing facility in Troy, Michigan where the assembly and paint of the Ford GT supercar is accomplished.

Additional Saleen manufacturing sites are located in Canada and Saudi Arabia. For more information please visit www.saleen.com.

Contact:
PR Dept.
(949) 597-4900
pr@saleen.com

SOURCE: Saleen

Click here to participate in the discussion.

Press Release

TEAM SALEEN / ORECA WIN SPA WITH S7R

Team Saleen/Oreca Win Spa With S7R Drivers Ortelli & Ayari Capture Podium Win & Fastest Lap Earning Race
Victory in GT1 Series Beating Aston Martins, Corvettes, Ferrari & Lamborghini

IRVINE, CA, May 16, 2006 – Championing the Saleen S7R, Team Saleen/Oreca drivers, Stephane Ortelli and Soheil Ayari captured the win in Belgium, at Spa Francorchamps, in their debut GT1 Le Mans Series race.

Competing in overcast-to-sunny skies, the Saleen S7R ran effortlessly for over six hours with GT1 contenders, in which the American-made race car prevailed over the field of Aston Martins, Corvettes, a Ferrari, and a Lamborghini — only to secure the win in the end!

On this exciting road course, Spa Francorchamps is considered to be one of the greatest and most challenging circuits in the world, and is rich in history from running the F1 series to sports cars. Measuring 4.350 miles (6.973km), the course marks an extremely fast and nimble endurance race to conquer. With that in mind, the local weather in the Belgian Ardennes Forest is extremely harsh. At various points of the track, the weather can vastly differ from one point to the next — from wet to dry; and from hot to cold. Throughout the weekend, the weather, in addition to the ability of both drivers to dominate the course, as well as the team’s race strategy, made for a winning combination.

Hugues de Chaunac, president of Oreca Groupe stated, “The Saleen/Oreca team united Ayari’s and Ortelli’s precision driving skills coupled with a superior race car and sound execution. We were able to demonstrate the speed and reliability of the Saleen S7R, and we brought home a very exciting win!”

Steve Saleen, president and CEO of Saleen, Inc. commented, “It was close. Having only 20 seconds between first and second meant the race was hard fought. I was pleased, but not at all surprised that the Saleen S7R did what it was created to do. I’m also pleased that we’ve teamed with Oreca as they are truly an exceptional racing organization.”

The Saleen ran the fastest lap in 2.17.025 minutes to finish ahead of the GT1 competition. It was thrilling when the Aston Martin and the Saleen continued to swap places during the race, only to have the Saleen S7R take the win.

Driver Quotes
Soheil Ayari:

“The car was strong all the way through and I am happy that it was a proper race against another very strong car. I am very happy as well to be teammates with Stephane in part of a new international story for Oreca. The Saleen is a very good car and Oreca has done a fantastic job, there were no problems at all for the whole race, no suspect noises, and everything was perfect. That meant I could just do my job, which was to pass the Aston. It was very quick on the straights and not easy to overtake so the team kept talking to me on the radio and eventually we found the best place for me to outbrake him. It was a fantastic fight, we pulled away a little right at the end, but it was only 20 seconds or so at the end of a six hour race — fantastic.”

“After a good rehearsal in the French Championship we knew we had arrived here with a fast car. To finish just 10 seconds ahead after a 6 hour race shows what a fantastic race this was.”

Stephane Ortelli:

“There was pressure all the way through from the Aston Martin but also the Corvettes were strong and they were difficult to lap because they were very fast on the straights. We lost the lead with the yellow and the speed was almost the same between the Saleen and the Aston Martin. It was a big fight to get it back but we showed the car is reliable and is competitive and it is also very good to drive! It is great to do this at Spa, which is always a very special place for me, today it is because it is my first race with Soheil and we have started with a win.”

Editors’ Note:
Photos can be viewed at: http://www.saleen.com/saleen-oreca.htm

About Saleen, Inc.
Since the company’s inception in 1984, Saleen has produced over 10,000 complete and EPA certified vehicles, more than any other specialty manufacturer. In addition, Saleen has equipped more than 600,000 vehicles worldwide, further emphasizing their commitment to excellence.

An eight-time Manufacturers’ Champion in GT sports car racing, Saleen’s corporate facilities in Irvine, California include: research, design, engineering and manufacturing capabilities, as well as the coating/paint division. Saleen also has another manufacturing facility in Troy, Michigan where the assembly and paint of the Ford GT supercar is accomplished. Additional Saleen manufacturing sites are located in Canada and Saudi Arabia. For more information please visit www.saleen.com.

Contact: PR Dept.
(949) 597-4900
pr@saleen.com

SOURCE: Saleen, Inc.

Click here to participate in the discussion.

Press Release

“COMPETITIVE EDGE” TV SERIES TO FEATURE THR TEXAS HOT RODS MUSTANG PERFORMANCE NATIONALLY ON SPIKE TV

Platinum Television Group is pleased to announce the selection of Texas Hot Rods for its innovative, educational television series, Competitive Edge. The company will be featured in a segment on “The Ultimate Mustang Experience” as part of the American Muscle Car Series. The show will be aired nationally on Spike TV as well as on regional cable stations.

news_2005_THR_logo

Deerfield Beach, FL (PRWEB) May 4, 2006

Platinum Television Group is pleased to announce the selection of Texas Hot Rods for its innovative, educational television series, Competitive Edge. The company will be featured in a segment on “The Ultimate Mustang Experience” as part of the American Muscle Car Series. The show will be aired nationally on Spike TV as well as on regional cable stations.

Texas Hot Rods (THR) specializes in customizing Mustangs and fulfilling dreams without breaking the bank. Employing professional installation and using the best parts are their hallmarks. “We race what we build,” is their motto. Texas Hot Rods offers a full line of parts and services–ranging from a simple part to complete rebuilds or custom vehicles.

Brian Metzger, owner of Texas Hot Rods, based in El Paso, TX, has had a long-time passion for Mustangs. He planned his company to be a one-stop shop for all Mustang car-related issues–from technical support to installation to custom vehicles. THR reaches a worldwide market through the THR online store (http://www.texashotrods.com ) and toll-free ordering line (877-50-STANG).

THR is the only Mustang Performance company that also creates custom vehicles for the Mustang enthusiast. These custom numbered vehicles come in three lines, the Rolling Chassis, Turn Key Car, and the newest Saleen Conversion.

What sets THR apart is its value and quality. Unlike other companies that just broker parts, THR specialists are always available to provide expertise to the customer. THR ships throughout the US and internationally, and deals directly through manufacturers for the best price.

Fast isn’t always easy–that’s why THR is always there for the customer. From technical advice to complete installation, THR helps customers achieve their dreams. The THR Difference – Real Experience, Best Service, at The Right Price. For more information, please visit http://www.texashotrods.com or contact THR toll free at 877-50-STANG (877-507-8264).

Platinum Television Group is an industry leader in consumer lifestyle educational shows.

# # #

Liz Metzger
TEXAS HOT RODS
915-593-6225

Motorsports News

MOTORSPORT: JAMIE’S RARING

By: RUSSELL ATKINS on April 29, 2006
Original Article: COVENTRY EVENING TELEGRAPH

Warwickshire’s leading sportscar ace is shaping up for the season ahead with a steely resolve and heightened expectations.

Jamie Derbyshire has remained with the Balfe Motorsport team in the FIA GT championship, and this year the squad has snapped up a brand new 650bhp, seven-litre Saleen S7R for the Leamington-based star and team-mates Shaun Balfe and Neil Cunningham.

Jamie said: “The team got the car late which has put a bit of pressure on, meaning there has been a limited amount of testing compared to what we would have liked to have done. We are still playing catch up a bit, but overall preparations have gone pretty well.”

After covering 150 laps at Silverstone where the car “didn’t miss a beat,” the team headed to the official FIA GT test at Dijon-Prenois in France.

The 28-year-old said: “We saw the test as an opportunity to iron out a few little gremlins. We had to learn the track and lost a day’s running with a misfire and gearbox problems, but considering we didn’t run on new tyres and weren’t really chasing times we fared pretty well.”

Indeed, the Saleen showed as high as third on the timesheets at one point, ultimately finishing the two-day test ninth having showed encouraging pace in tricky conditions.

Jamie said it was still a case of getting accustomed to the car and getting some laps under his belt before the campaign starts.

He explained: “A lot of the teams have had experience of their cars in previous seasons, whereas we are still having to get to grips with the Saleen. We just kept a low profile and left the test pretty pleased.”

“The Mosler we raced last year was a road car turned into a race car, whereas the Saleen is the other way round. It feels much stiffer, there’s a lot less bodyroll and there’s a big difference in power. It’s got 150bhp more which translates into a lot more grunt when you put your foot down. The carbon fibre brakes allow you to brake a fair bit later too.”

Balfe Motorsport are up against some serious opposition in the FIA GT series, with big-budget operations and monster machines from Maserati, Aston Martin and Corvette.

Jamie said: “All the cars are pretty capable, so it’s just a question of getting a good basic set-up. The competition will be tough, with 11 top-line GT1 cars and some very quick drivers. Maserati have a massive budget and their car is designed purely to go out there and win GT races. The Aston Martin is a freshly-engineered GT car too, and the Zakspeed team has a big pedigree in Champ Cars and the DTM (German Touring Cars).”

One advantage Jamie does possess is familiarity with the family-run Balfe Motorsport outfit, having raced for the team not only last year but also in 2003, when he and driving partner Shaun Balfe came within a whisker of lifting the British GT crown.

He added: “It’s nice having continuity and knowing everyone there. It’s a very relaxed feeling and one less thing to have to worry about, meaning we can just get stuck in and straight down to business. It’s a very good relationship.”

Jamie said he was particularly looking forward to the Spa 24 Hours at the end of July, after Le Mans one of the most prestigious round-the-clock races in the world and the undisputed jewel in the crown of the FIA GT campaign.

Looking at the bigger picture, podiums are very much the aim, and Jamie has set himself the objective of securing a top five championship finish at the end of the year.

He said: “Lady Luck would definitely have to play a part for us to win a race but there’s always an outside chance. We just want to pick up points and see where we end up.

“We have to really turn it on at Silverstone and show what we can do. It’s always a bit of guesswork as to how competitive you will actually be in pre-season testing, but we are quietly confident.”

Silverstone is the opening round of the series on May 7, and a circuit where Jamie has enjoyed considerable success in the past. Last year he stormed to victory over a strong field in the inaugural Silverstone 24 Hour race, an experience he said would be useful in preparation for the Spa challenge later this year.

A repeat performance on home soil next weekend would be the perfect way to get his 2006 campaign off to a flying start.

Press Release

THR DEBUTS SALEEN 06 SC-01 CONVERSION W/ A BANG…W/ $6000 SERIES VI GIVEAWAY

THR Texas Hot Rods, the leader in Mustang Performance, is debuting the brand new Saleen 2006 Aftermarket Conversion at Fun Ford Weekend in Houston April 28-30. As an introduction for the Saleen line, THR will also raffle a $6000 Series VI supercharger to be given away at the end of the weekend.

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El Paso, TX (PRWEB) April 25, 2006

THR Texas Hot Rods (http://www.texashotrods.com), the leader in Mustang Performance, is debuting the brand new Saleen 2006 Aftermarket Conversion at Fun Ford Weekend in Houston April 28-30. As an introduction for the Saleen line, THR will also raffle a $6000 Series VI supercharger to be given away at the end of the weekend.

THR completed the first All Aftermarket Saleen 2006 Conversion (THR SC-01) in April 2006. These vehicles feature the complete line of aftermarket parts available from Saleen, and can be purchased as a parts only package or converted as a numbered THR.

As an introduction to this line and as part of the debut of the THR 2006 SC-01 Mustang, THR will raffle away a $6000 supercharger at the upcoming show in Houston. The Supercharger will be given away at the end of the weekend.

THR will have the complete line of Saleen parts available in stock at the show. It was also have available Saleen & THR apparel, THR’s new line of wheels, and a THR vehicle for sale at the show.

For more information on THR products & Saleen aftermarket parts, see the complete selection at http://www.texashotrods.com.

For more information on the event, see the show schedule at http://www.funfordevents.com.

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Liz Metzger
TEXAS HOT RODS
915-593-6225

Automotive News

NEW TOYS FOR WORLD’S: RICHER GIRLS AND BOYS

By: N.A. on April 15, 2006
Original Article: GOLD COAST BULLETIN, THE

NEW YORK MOTOR SHOW

LEXUS has unveiled its LS 600h hybrid – which combines a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine and a pair of electric motors – at the New York International Automobile Show.

Billed as a high-performance car with extra electric boost rather than a fuel-sipping eco-warrior, it has a total output of about 324kW.

No fuel consumption figures have been released as yet, but Lexus promises ‘power and performance on a par with modern 12-cylinder engines, with fuel efficiency that matches a conventional V8 unit’.

Also flying in the face of higher oil prices are two higher performance versions of the Ford Mustang which went on show in New York.

Saleen dished up its Saleen/Parnelli Jones Limited Edition Mustang, named after the legendary US race car driver. Its V8 engine produces 275kW.

The Shelby GT-H version of the same was unveiled with a promise it will be available for rental at some US Hertz locations.

Named after another racer, Carroll Shelby, it has 25 per cent more power than the Mustang GT.

Press Release

THE SALEEN / PARNELLI JONES LIMITED EDITION MUSTANG DEBUTS

Design Celebrates Racing Legend, Parnelli Jones, and Delivers 370 bhp

April 13, 2006, New York, New York – Specialty automobile manufacturer, Saleen, (www.saleen.com) expands its product lineup and celebrates legendary racecar driver, Parnelli Jones, by announcing the Saleen / Parnelli Jones Limited Edition Mustang.

Parnelli Jones and Steve Saleen, New York Auto Show
Parnelli Jones and Steve Saleen, New York Auto Show

Steve Saleen, President & CEO of Saleen, said, “Parnelli Jones is an American racing icon. In the fifties, sixties, and seventies Parnelli won just about every race that he appeared in, including the Indy 500. 1970 was the year that the SCCA Trans Am Series boasted the most competitive field ever, and Parnelli Jones and his Boss 302 Mustang competed against the likes of Mark Donahue and Dan Gurney, and there he captured the championship. Our relationship began in 1987 when Parnelli raced for me on the Saleen team, and helped us win our first SCCA Manufacturer’s Championship at Sebring, Florida. I can’t think of any other individual that brings with him the unique connection between championship winning Mustangs and Saleen.”

Parnelli Jones commented, “It’s a true honor to have a special edition Saleen wearing my name. This impressive car takes me back in time – it makes me want to take it for a run around the track. I’m sure that this car will be an adrenaline-pumping experience for anyone who has the chance to own or drive one. I think that this car is going to evoke nostalgia not only for Steve Saleen and myself, but for everyone that lays their eyes on it.”

Advanced & Authentic

In 1970, spectators wore bell bottom pants and mood rings and watched Parnelli in his Grabber Orange Boss 302 Mustang with black striped hood, cross the finish line to take numerous checkered flags and overall championship.

Today’s Saleen / Parnelli Jones Limited Edition Mustang reflects the same authentic vintage attitude but comes complete with a new Saleen 302 cid V-8, 3-valve engine. This engine produces a whopping 370 horsepower at 6000 RPM, and with 370 ft-lb of torque at 4000 RPM. The high compression engine transforms a normal drive into an exciting thrill ride. Awakening the senses, the new Saleen engine is equipped with a high compression, high revving valve train, utilizing forged pistons, rods, and crankshaft and a lightweight, aluminum flywheel. Top-performance calibrations are thanks to Saleen’s PowerFlashTM technology.

Also included in this Limited Edition are new Saleen 302 valve covers. Completing the authenticity and providing additional high performance capabilities is the new exhaust system that provides a low-resonating sound that is a legacy of Saleen.

Classic & Contemporary

“We designed this commemorative vehicle to capture the raw, aggressive feel that Parnelli raced with, and created a racing revolution,” continued Steve Saleen.

The new Saleen / Parnelli Jones Limited Edition comes in one color, Grabber Orange. Period correct details include a black striped “shaker” hood, race-style hood pins, black trunk deck, and 302 side stripes.

Completing the overall effect, the new Limited Edition comes with Saleen performance styling including front fascia with racing-style air dam, side skirts, rear fascia, rear 1970 replica wing, trunk insert license plate panel with chrome trim, rear window quarter panels, and a racing-style billet gas cap. Demonstrating further the authenticity of this retro-beauty, Parnelli’s racing number, 15, removable and reusable static cling race decals, and the Ford blue oval are displayed – just like the one that appeared on Parnelli’s 1970 Boss 302 Mustang.

Signature decals of both Steve Saleen and Parnelli Jones show above the door roof rails, and an all-new Saleen Parnelli Jones logo appears throughout the exterior and interior. Borrowed from the seventies are the restyled rear window louvered sport slats, which is an essential part of the overall styling.

Saleen Racecraft Suspension

Keeping with both Steve Saleen’s and Parnelli’s race ancestry, the Limited Edition is designed utilizing Saleen’s own precision suspension. However this all new, yet classic Watts-Link suspension is derived from racing and performance applications, and offers the purest in race-type handling. The superior springs, shocks and swaybars provide even greater performance capabilities enabling the tires to remain firmly on the road even in extreme cornering.

Rounding off the Limited Edition are the Minilite-style 19”x9” front and 19”x10” rear racing wheels which prominently display the Saleen / Parnelli Jones Limited Edition center cap, which reflects the cool racing heritage from which they were bred. The car is outfitted with high-performance Pirelli 275x40x19 front, and 285x40x19 rear tires, and offers race-car-like stopping with Saleen 14” brakes.

Racetrack Revisited

Strap yourself inside the Saleen / Parnelli Jones Limited Edition and you’re back in time! A time when driving meant extreme passion for the car, the race – and all about the win! Experience the beautifully coordinated orange and black racing-style seats which envelop the driver and the passenger. Grip the steering wheel, grab the special Limited Edition gear shift knob, view the integrated twin gauge pod that reflects oil pressure and temperature, and vintage instrumentation panel with its black background and white characters, and you’re there! Turn the key, blip the throttle, take her for a couple of laps around the track, or around the block, and you can easily imagine you’re at Laguna Seca driving with a racing legend – and the checkered flag is yours!

Feel the Spirit

“Parnelli Jones is an extraordinary example of a legend maker. Even after nearly four decades, his abilities and visions for the sport has very few equals. I anticipate that Parnelli’s racing spirit will come alive in every Saleen / Parnelli Jones Limited Edition that we manufacture. Capping on our motto, ‘Power in the Hands of a Few,’ we will produce a limited number – up to only 500 – in honor of Parnelli winning the Indy 500 in 1963,” said Steve Saleen.

Inspired from Parnelli’s original 1970 Boss 302 Mustang, the ‘Saleen / Parnelli Jones Limited Edition’ lives and breathes all things inherently Parnelli – and all things Saleen!

Availability and Pricing

Certified Saleen Ford dealers throughout the United States are now taking orders for the Saleen Parnelli Jones Limited Edition that will be distributed this Fall as a 2007 model. MSRP is estimated to be in the mid-to-high $50,000 for this limited production vehicle. Taxes, designation charges, and other fees may apply. For complete information about the Saleen / Parnelli Limited Edition please see: http://www.saleen.com/S302.htm. For a local Saleen dealer please visit: http://www.saleen.com/dealerLocator/DealerLocator.aspx.

Click here to participate in the discussion.

Press Release

SALEEN TO SPONSOR TEXAS HOT RODS IN FIRST ALL-SALEEN AFTERMARKET ENHANCED 2006 MUSTANG

Saleen, the premier automotive brand for the Ford Mustang, has chosen to sponsor Texas Hot Rods in creating an all-Saleen aftermarket parts enhanced 2006 Mustang. This vehicle will begin as an all stock vehicle and will be transformed to showcase Saleen’s complete line of aftermarket parts.

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El Paso, TX (PRWEB) March 9, 2006

Saleen, the premier automotive lifestyle brand for the Ford Mustang, has chosen to sponsor Texas Hot Rods in creating an all-Saleen aftermarket parts enhanced 2006 Mustang. This vehicle, a Screaming Yellow 2006 Mustang, will begin as an all stock vehicle and will be transformed to showcase Saleen’s complete line of aftermarket parts.

The vehicle will showcase the following items. Body kit and wing, Supercharger, Supercharger hood, Suspension, Exhaust, Graphics- all badges on vehicle, Saleen seats, Chrome Wheels and Tires, Brakes, HID Light Package.

It will be dynoed before the transformation and after to showcase the power difference with the upgrades. Once complete, the THR Saleen 06 will be featured in Saleen and THR advertising, as well as taken throughout the US to various events including Fun Ford Weekend and NMRA shows. The project is scheduled to begin March 10th and to be completed by March 20th. All modifications will be by Saleen personnel at the Saleen plant in California.

Saleen Inc. has been the premier specialty automotive manufacturer for over 20 years. With its superior quality products, its aftermarket parts have always been a staple to Saleen owners. Now every Mustang owner can have the same quality and artistry of the complete Saleen parts line.

Saleen has carefully chosen a select few to market its complete line of products. Texas Hot Rods was the first private dealer chosen to represent Saleen’s aftermarket line of products. Texas Hot Rods is quickly becoming the leader in Mustang performance parts, and like Saleen strives for both quality and performance in all the lines it represents.

The complete Saleen product line is available at Texas Hot Rods through the toll free order line 877-50-STANG (877-507-8264) or via the website at http://www.texashotrods.com.

Texas Hot Rods is the premier retailer of Ford Mustang aftermarket performance parts and cars. For further information, please contact us at 915-593-6225.

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Liz Metzger
TEXAS HOT RODS
915-593-6225