Superformance, the California-based tuning shop responsible for some of the best Ford GT40, Shelby Cobra and Shelby Daytona Coupe replicas in the world, has announced it will begin building replicas of the gorgeous Shelby GR-1 Concept from the 2005 Detroit auto show.

The company announced it would put a GR-1 replica into production at the Petersen Automotive Museum’s recent tribute event to Carroll Shelby on January 6th, according to Car and Driver. Superformance has teamed up with Shelby American on the project and aims to build around 200 special edition GR-1s followed by a regular production run.

Both gasoline and electric versions of the replica GR-1, which will likely receive a different name, will be offered as well. Neither Superformance nor Shelby were willing to quote performance figures yet, but representatives from Shelby told Car and Driver that “it’s gonna be very fast.”

The initial 200 unit production run will be offered with polished aluminum bodies (like the concept car) or painted bodies. The bodywork will also be made from carbon fiber.

The original Shelby GR-1 Concept was first presented at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance as a clay model in 2004 and then later as a fully functional concept car in Detroit in 2005. It was largely based on the Shelby Cobra Concept, another stunning concept vehicle from Ford that never saw reached production, and featured a 605 hp 6.4-liter V10. Unfortunately, the GR-1 never reached production as Ford couldn’t find a way to make a profit  on it. The American economy collapsed not very long after its debut as well, putting the final nail in its chrome coffin.

If there are any companies that can properly resurrect the GR-1, it’s Superformance and Shelby American. Superformance already makes some mighty desirable GT40, Cobra and Daytona Coupe replicas and Shelby American knows its way around a powertrain. We can’t wait to see the fruits of this partnership.

[source: Car and Driver]

The post California Tuner to Resurrect Gorgeous Shelby GR-1 Concept appeared first on AllFordMustangs.