Chevrolet will be showcasing a 1977 K5 Blazer at SEMA360 that has undergone a significant transformation. This classic vehicle has traded its traditional combustion engine for a modern electric powertrain and battery pack. The revamped Blazer serves as a preview of the upcoming Electric Connect and Cruise package that Chevrolet Performance plans to offer starting in the second half of 2021. Essentially, this package is an electric crate motor designed to retrofit classic cars with electric power.
Electric Powertrain Details
At its core, the crate motor used in the Blazer is derived from the Bolt EV electric power plant. What might surprise enthusiasts is that this electric power plant produces more power than the original 400 cubic inch V-8 engine that was under the hood in 1977. The V-8 engine produced 175 horsepower, while the Bolt EV engine generates an impressive 200 horsepower and 266 pound-foot of torque. This significant increase in power not only modernizes the vehicle but also enhances its performance capabilities.
The EV powertrain is paired with an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and efficient power delivery. Other than the engine swap, the remainder of the Blazer remains box stock, preserving its classic aesthetic and charm. The system features a 60 kWh battery pack along with all the necessary electronics to support the electric powertrain. However, details regarding the vehicle’s driving range and charging speed remain unclear at this time.
Implications for Classic Car Enthusiasts
The introduction of the Electric Connect and Cruise package has significant implications for classic car enthusiasts. This package offers a viable solution for those looking to modernize their vintage vehicles while maintaining their original appearance. By replacing the traditional combustion engine with an electric powertrain, owners can enjoy the benefits of modern technology, such as increased power, reduced emissions, and potentially lower maintenance costs.
Moreover, the electric crate motor provides an opportunity to preserve classic cars for future generations. As environmental regulations become stricter and the availability of fossil fuels decreases, electric conversions could become a necessity for keeping these beloved vehicles on the road. The Electric Connect and Cruise package represents a step towards a more sustainable future for classic cars, allowing them to remain relevant in an evolving automotive landscape.
In addition to the environmental benefits, the electric powertrain offers improved performance and reliability. Electric motors provide instant torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and a more responsive driving experience. Furthermore, electric powertrains have fewer moving parts compared to combustion engines, which can lead to increased reliability and reduced maintenance requirements.
The 1977 K5 Blazer showcased at SEMA360 serves as a testament to the potential of electric conversions for classic cars. By combining the timeless design of a vintage vehicle with the cutting-edge technology of an electric powertrain, Chevrolet is paving the way for a new era of classic car restoration. Enthusiasts can look forward to the release of the Electric Connect and Cruise package in the second half of 2021, offering a glimpse into the future of automotive innovation.
The electric conversion of the 1977 K5 Blazer highlights the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for classic car enthusiasts. With the introduction of the Electric Connect and Cruise package, Chevrolet Performance is providing a solution that combines the best of both worlds: the nostalgia of vintage vehicles and the advancements of modern technology. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, electric conversions may become a popular choice for preserving and enhancing classic cars, ensuring their legacy for years to come.
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
