Speculation is running rampant that the 2011 Shelby GT350 may be the last offering from the famous shop of Carroll Shelby. Reportedly, Shelby is looking to slow things down a bit and focus on the parts side of the business, which he claims is far more profitable than modifying whole cars.
According to a story on DallasNews.com, work at the Las Vegas facility has fallen flat and that is reflected by a reduction in their workforce by up to 40%. There are now just 75 employees working at the facility, which during its height was struggling to keep up with car building demand with scads more workers.
What’s interesting is the existence and hinted at expansion of the Shelby “Mod Shops” that currently exist at several locations across the country like Tasca Ford in Rhode Island. By moving any heavy work to those facilities, the core business in Las Vegas can further trim down and also benefit by supplying the parts for the modification jobs, while not being burdened by the labor of running a car factory.
Shelby has both vehement supporters and seething detractors but his legacy in the American automotive industry is undeniable. The guy is 87 years old and no one can blame him if he wants to kick things into neutral and slow down some.
We’re wondering how other Mustang tuner shops are faring if Shelby is feeling the heat this badly.
Source — DallasNews.com — Muscle Car Builder Shelby May Ease Up on Accelerator
