Saleen to reveal first EV in early 2014

In a statement, company founder Steve Saleen said the brand's first EV will be "revolutionary" in both aesthetics and mechanics.

"I'm not prepared to give all the details of our electric vehicle project yet, but I can tell you that it is unlike anything currently in the marketplace," Saleen said.

Despite the lack of specifics, given the California-based manufacturer specialises in building and tuning high-powered vehicles such as the 559kW/949Nm twin-turbocharged 7.0-litre V8-powered S7 (pictured top and below), the new EV is likewise expected to appeal to performance enthusiasts.

Yet to announce planned timing or availability of the model, Saleen told US industry journal Automotive News, the company’s entry into the EV segment was “timely” with the “rapid pace of advancements in electric vehicle technology” anticipated to accelerate completion of the project.

"We intend to enter this market with an offering that is truly innovative and offers the styling and craftsmanship associated with the Saleen Automotive brand," Saleen said.

Marking its 30th anniversary this year, Saleen's current range includes models based on the Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger (pictured below) and outgoing fifth-generation Ford Mustang.