Built by Salvage to Savage: 1985 C10 Chevy Squarebody Goes Electric
When most people think of hot rods, they picture loud engines, burning rubber, and the roar of horsepower. But for the team at Salvage to Savage, a hot rod is something different. it’s a marriage of vintage style and cutting-edge technology. Their latest build, a 1985 Tesla Swapped C10 Chevy Squarebody, is a perfect example of this philosophy in action.
Overview of the Powertrain
The most striking feature of this Squarebody is its powertrain. Gone is the V8 engine that once sat under the hood. Replaced by a Tesla Model S LDU mounted on a Corvette C5 front cross member. The rear end is equally impressive. Featuring a Tesla Model 3 rear engine sub-assembly, retaining the Tesla Model 3 brakes fabricated into a custom-fabricated race chassis.
Modifications for a Perfect Fit
To make everything fit. Salvage to Savage had to modify the inverter location and add a full-size radiator to cool the front motor. They also added an MR 2 electric power steering pump and a C5 Corvette steering rack for improved handling. A Haltech digital display provides battery status, speed, and other information, controlled by an IC7 and CAN Keypad.
But the team didn’t stop there. They added a third-floor pedal to activate regenerative braking. As well as mounted a Tesla Model 3 Long Range complete battery assembly in the rear. Zero EV motor controllers are used front and rear, and a Bosch Model S Cooling pump sits in the rear. To top it all off, there’s a Model 3 onboard charger and charge port to keep this Tesla Swapped C10 out burning rubber as intended.
A Glimpse into the Future of Hot Rodding
This Tesla Swapped C10 is a hot rod that looks like it came straight out of the 80s. But has the power and performance of a modern electric vehicle. It’s a true testament to the skills and creativity of the Salvage to Savage team. And a glimpse into the future of hot rodding
Specs:
- Built by Salvage to Savage
- 1985 C10 Chevy Squarebody
- Corvette C5 front cross member to mount Tesla Model S LDU
- Tesla Model 3 rear engine sub-assembly including brakes fabricated into the frame – Complete Tesla Model 3 rear sub-assembly and battery used in custom fabricated race chassis
- Modified inverter location for fitment
- Full-size radiator to cool front motor
- MR 2 electric power steering pump / C5 Corvette steering rack
- Haltech digital display battery status/ speed/ etc – IC7 and CAN Keypad
- Third-floor pedal to activate Regenerative braking.
- Tesla Model 3 Long Range complete battery assembly mounted in the rear
- Zero EV motor controllers front and rear
- Bosch Model S Cooling pump in the rear
- Model 3 onboard charger and charge port
Ultimately, if you are looking to build a truly unique classic car and want the latest performance you can find, a Tesla engine swap into your classic C10 can be a great alternative. It offers the best of both worlds – the classic aesthetic with futuristic power and efficiency that rivals most modern cars. However, understand the work required to complete the conversion may not be suitable for everyone but doing it right is definitely worth it. A Tesla engine swap is an exciting new way to bring life back into older cars breathing in their new life and performance!
