ge5153216866919566893
Gautam Sharma21 Aug 2014
NEWS

Saleen hits a FOURSIXTEEN

US tuner enhances the performance, cabin ambience and visual aggression of the Tesla Model S

Tesla’s Model S sedan has been well received by the motoring press and the buying public for its style and performance, which arguably set new standards for electric-powered vehicles.

However, that hasn’t stopped US-based Saleen – best known for tweaking Ford Mustangs – from turning its attention to the battery-powered Model S, uprating its performance, handling and visuals.

The resultant offering is dubbed the Saleen FOURSIXTEEN, but the bad news is that we’re unlikely to ever see it here, where the all-electric sedan is now on sale priced just under $100,000.

Be that as it may, the FOURSIXTEEN is still an intriguing vehicle, and the tweaks to the drivetrain include a shorter 11.39:1 final-drive ratio for sharper acceleration. Also new is a ‘MAXGRIP’ locking differential that maximises traction by allowing each wheel to relay power to the tarmac in the optimum dose.

Saleen claims the driveline improvements translate to “increased efficiencies in torque management” while providing “a track capable throttle response, and faster acceleration”.

The tuning firm has also uprated the vehicle’s cooling efficiency via a larger volume radiator, more powerful fans, and a high-flow water pump.

“Electric drivetrains are unique in that they can generate an incredible amount of torque at zero RPM”, says Saleen engineering boss Sven Etzelsberger.

“Our challenge was really to find methods to manage the energy that is generated by the electric motor and rotor assembly. With the FOURSIXTEEN we have successfully found a comprehensive solution to increase performance and harness power in an efficient manner.”

The suspension has also been upgraded via a track-calibrated set-up that includes monotube coil-overs, beefier anti-roll bars and a remapped stability-control system with sportier thresholds.

The FOURSIXTEEN suspension system can also be ordered in a fully adjustable configuration, allowing the driver to easily increase stiffness for track days and revert to a more streetable setting with simple adjustments.

Meanwhile, stopping power is enhanced via Saleen-specific 356mm discs with multi-piston front callipers and performance brake pads.

However, for those seeking to do more track work, there’s also an optional carbon-ceramic braking system that reduces unsprung weight while boosting fade resistance.

The whole lot sits on polished 10-spoke Saleen alloys shod with low-profile rubber, which fill out the wheel-arches nicely.

Other visual clues that differentiate the FOURSIXTEEN from the Model S on which it’s based include an aggressive new front fascia, carbon-fibre rear diffuser and a prominent decklid spoiler.

These mods are not just aesthetic, as Saleen claims they increase downforce and help increase cooling efficiency.

Whether the FOURSIXTEEN actually looks better than the standard Model S is debatable, but different strokes for different folks, as the cliché goes.

Meanwhile, the cabin has been tarted up with black/cream leather upholstery with Alcantara suede inlays to provide a more opulent ambience.

In addition there’s a new centre console that provides the driver and front passenger with additional storage space, a personal electronic device pocket and a much needed cupholder (this car is tailored to American buyers, after all).

Would-be buyers can order their new FOURSIXTEEN directly from Saleen, and the company can also retrofit the upgrades for existing owners of the Model S in the US.

Share this article
Written byGautam Sharma
See all articles
Our team of independent expert car reviewers and journalistsMeet the team
Stay up to dateBecome a carsales member and get the latest news, reviews and advice straight to your inbox.
Disclaimer
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.

If the price does not contain the notation that it is "Drive Away", the price may not include additional costs, such as stamp duty and other government charges.
Download the carsales app
    AppStoreDownloadGooglePlayDownload
    App Store and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.
    © CAR Group Ltd 1999-2024
    In the spirit of reconciliation we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.