Saleen Allows the Public to Contribute Ideas for Its Upcoming American Supercar | Carscoops

      A new American supercar allows enthusiasts to participate in its design, transforming a museum showcase into an engaging revival story for the brand.

      By Stephen Rivers

      Saleen offers a sneak peek of the forthcoming S11 supercar at the LeMay Museum in Tacoma.

      Guests have the opportunity to vote on the final design elements of the car's exterior and interior. Complete specifications will be disclosed over the upcoming year as Saleen prepares for production.

      Twenty years ago, Saleen was a prominent name in the performance car industry, associated with high-powered Mustangs, tuning expertise, and the mid-engine S7, a true American supercar that dared to compete with the finest from Europe.

      Now, Saleen is still pursuing that dream, though the current approach has changed. The new S11 aims to revive the brand’s supercar essence, but this time, the design process involves community input.

      The S11 was revealed during The Birth of the American Supercar exhibition at LeMay America’s Car Museum in Tacoma, Washington, and is not currently a functioning prototype.

      Instead, attendees can see a full-size clay model along with design sketches that offer a glimpse of what could shape Saleen's next chapter. Indeed, you may have a say in the S11's appearance.

      While the S7 largely reflected Steve Saleen's vision, the S11 will depart from that tradition, allowing museum visitors to vote on design features for the car's interior and exterior.

      “It’s an honor to debut our S11 design at LeMay,” stated Saleen. “Throughout the year, we’ll provide enthusiasts with design options, enabling them to influence the final product.” This approach is bold and somewhat unconventional.

      Collaborative design is often not celebrated in the supercar sphere for producing the most sought-after vehicles. Nevertheless, for a smaller manufacturer like Saleen, this strategy could help reconnect with fans, build excitement, and establish a stronger presence in the market.

      The most astonishing detail, however, is that we still lack information regarding the engine, suspension, or aerodynamic aspirations of the S11. Saleen simply asserts that the new model will be “one louder,” whatever that entails, than any existing competitor.

      We admire their confidence, but it would be quite unexpected if Saleen were to regain the esteemed status it once held.

      The exhibit, curated by founder Steve Saleen himself, traces over a century of American performance engineering from muscle cars to contemporary exotics and will be updated quarterly with new vehicles and features.

      Thanks to KP for the information!