Saleen launches ‘SMS Limited’ supercar brand

Less than a week away from unveiling a brand new supercar concept, Saleen has announced the formation of ‘SMS Limited’ as its new flagship brand. SMS Limited joins other Saleen nameplates such as Saleen Autosport, Saleen Speedlab and Saleen Inc, and will be used for a new range of ultra-performance muscle cars and new supercars.

Founder Steve Saleen says the decision to launch the new brand and forthcoming cars was to address the rapidly expanding global market for “automotive lifestyle vehicles, technical performance parts and accessories.” Because of Saleen’s close ties with Ford, a new brand was needed to promote a new breed of global models.

Engineers are working on a new range of ‘Signature Series’ performance vehicles and technical performance parts aimed at global markets. One of the first of the new cars will be based on the S5S Raptor Concept, which will be unveiled at next week’s New York Auto Show.

The Raptor will be a mid-engined sports car with a lightweight carbon-fiber and aluminum body powered by a supercharged 5.0L V8, and will be priced between $150,000 and $200,000.