Saleen goes from muscle cars to electric cars with modified Tesla Model S

By Stephen Edelstein Published April 18, 2014

It’s finally happened.

It was only a matter of time before the automotive aftermarket turned its attention to electric cars, and one of the biggest names in the business – Saleen – is finally taking that step.

Known for its modified Ford Mustangs, Saleen announced that it would turn its tuning talents on the Tesla Model S a little while back. Yup, it’s going from muscle cars to electric cars.

The Saleen electric car is based on the top 85-kilowatt-hour Model S Performance. Saleen hasn’t released any technical information, but there will reportedly be some powertrain modifications in the mix.

In stock form, this version of the Model S develops 416 horsepower, enough for a 0 to 60 mph sprint of 4.2 seconds, and a top speed of 130 mph.

What is clear from the renderings is that Saleen will give the Model S some extra visual punch with a bodykit. It definitely looks more aggressive, but the extra scoops and vents might be too boy racer for some.

A new set of five-spoke wheels show off bigger carbon-ceramic brakes, and Tesla’s signature grille is nowhere to be found. After all, this is a Saleen.

Whatever you want to call it, the Tesla-based Saleen electric sports sedan won’t appear in finished form until next summer, and will go on sale after that.

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Stephen Edelstein

Contributing Editor

Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…

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