EI had another chat with Hugues De Chaunac:
http://www.endurance-info.com/article.php?sid=3544
ORECA plans to race the Saleen in 2008 as well, so the prototype project is for 2009.
They want to design the car themselves (not by external firm, like Dallara) and are hoping for an engine deal with a big manufacturer. The choices will be made between june and september. They are working closely with the ACO because they want to build the car to the 2010 rules. These rules have not been fixed so the choice between closed and open is unsure, but at the moment coupe seems the most likely.