In a groundbreaking fusion of automotive engineering, a workshop in the United States has successfully transformed the iconic Dodge Challenger Hellcat into a high-performance electric vehicle by utilizing the advanced technology of the Tesla Model S Plaid. This innovative conversion, dubbed the ‘Cybercat,’ has garnered significant attention from muscle car enthusiasts and electric vehicle advocates alike.
The Cybercat represents a unique blend of two automotive worlds: the raw power of a traditional V8 muscle car and the cutting-edge electric performance of Tesla’s fastest production vehicle. This ambitious project demonstrates the potential for electric vehicles to adopt the aesthetics and excitement associated with classic American muscle.
Led by ‘Kilowatt Kyle’ Wade, founder of the BoostedBoiz YouTube channel, the project has sparked lively discussions among car aficionados. Wade humorously noted, “The Hellcat guys are going to be so mad,” reflecting the polarizing nature of such a transformation. For many traditionalists, the idea of converting a beloved muscle car into an electric vehicle may be hard to digest.
Wade previously attempted a similar conversion by fitting a Tesla Model S Plaid chassis with the body of a Honda Odyssey. However, this initial endeavor faced challenges in alignment and drivability. The breakthrough came when Wade discovered that the dimensions of the Dodge Challenger were nearly identical to those of the Tesla Model S Plaid, differing by only 7mm in wheelbase. This close match facilitated the ambitious project, allowing for a seamless integration of the two vehicles.
Acquiring a 2013 Dodge Challenger shell for just $700 was the first step in this transformative journey. The BoostedBoiz team meticulously cut and modified the Dodge body to fit the Tesla underpinnings, ensuring that the final product would maintain the aesthetic appeal of the Challenger while harnessing the electric performance capabilities of the Model S Plaid.
The final result is a striking vehicle that retains the visual flair of a Challenger Hellcat SRT, complete with authentic badges and body panels. Traditionally, the Hellcat is known for its supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8 engine, producing up to 807 horsepower. In contrast, the Cybercat boasts an impressive electric powertrain featuring three electric motors, delivering a staggering 761 kW and 1423 Nm of torque.
With the cabin designed to stay true to the Model S Plaid’s layout, the Cybercat offers a unique driving experience that melds the luxurious features of Tesla’s interior with the aggressive styling of the Challenger. This integration aims to provide both comfort and excitement, appealing to a broad spectrum of automotive enthusiasts.
The Cybercat project not only highlights the technological advancements in electric vehicles but also raises questions about the future of classic muscle cars in an increasingly electrified automotive landscape. As manufacturers continue to innovate, the potential for hybrid models that respect the heritage of traditional vehicles while embracing modern technology becomes more apparent.
While some may celebrate this daring blend of engineering, others may view it as a betrayal of the muscle car legacy. The ongoing debate between electric and combustion engine enthusiasts is likely to intensify as more projects like the Cybercat emerge.
As the automotive industry evolves, the lines between electric performance and traditional muscle continue to blur. The Cybercat stands as a testament to what is possible when creativity meets cutting-edge technology, paving the way for future innovations in the realm of high-performance vehicles.
For those intrigued by the Cybercat, the project serves as an exciting glimpse into the future of automotive design and performance, where the roar of a V8 can coexist with the silent power of electric motors.
