Ford Shelby GR-1 Concept to enter limited production

Replica maker Superperformance has been tasked with building the Shelby Daytona tribute cars.

Ford is reportedly planning to put the Shelby GR-1 into production, building a limited series 15 years after the Shelby Daytona tribute concept debuted at the Detroit auto show.

Unlike the original V10-powered working prototype, the production GR-1 will be outfitted with a supercharged V8. The company has not confirmed which particular engine, though the new Shelby GT500's mill is viewed as the most likely candidate.

Ford has hired renowned replica builder Superperformance to manufacture the cars, allowing the project to benefit from Low Car Volume Manufacturers Act exemptions for up to 325 examples.

Speaking to Robb Report, Superperformance CEO Lance Stander suggests a hybrid and all-electric edition are also under consideration.

"That's definitely on the table with Shelby American," he said. "We simply can't ignore the market's move towards electric, and where it will be when this car comes out in two years' time."

The first examples are expected to be assembled as soon as Superperformance receives clearance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.