June 18, 2008 Saleen is best known as a producer of very fast cars, and often pioneers new ways of doing things. This one is different however, because we expect this functionality to become a feature on a lot of pick-ups over the coming decade. It’s an auto sliding and self-locking tonneau cover that opens from both front to back and back to front, effectively increasing usable luggage area and security and by just being so very clever and convenient. Saleen is the first, but the capability will be OEMed into most vehicle fleets in the coming year or three. Like most “firsts” the automated system comes as part of a premium model first up, in this case the S331 Supercrew, named for its 331 CID (5.4 litre), three valve SOHC V8 engine which produces 450 bhp and a colossal 500 lb-ft of torque at 4000 RPM.
The Infinistor was unveiled at the New York motor show in January, and there’s a video here of the unveiling and unique functionality of the system – anyone who has ever owned a pick-up and wished their cargo was secure will understand the benefits of this system.