The anticipation for the release of the first Dodge Charger EVs is building as we are just a few weeks away from seeing these electric vehicles hit the streets. While traditional car enthusiasts may be hesitant to embrace the shift from Hemi V8 power to electricity, one group of tuners has already made a bold move.
The team at BoostedBoiz YouTube channel has embarked on their most daring project yet: a 2023 Dodge Challenger Hellcat that has been stripped down and fitted with a Tesla Model S Plaid drivetrain and battery. Known for their unconventional builds in the electric vehicle space, such as turning a Honda Odyssey minivan into a drag-strip contender with a Plaid drivetrain, the BoostedBoiz are no strangers to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.
Host Kyle Wade had the ingenious idea to swap the Tesla components into the Challenger after realizing that the two vehicles share a similar wheelbase. This allowed for a more seamless integration of the Tesla’s battery, motors, and other internal components into the Challenger’s chassis. The crew managed to find a 2013 Challenger shell at a junkyard for a bargain price of $700 and immediately set to work on the ambitious project.
The conversion process was not without its challenges, as extensive modifications had to be made to the front and rear sections of the Challenger to accommodate the Tesla components. However, after a considerable amount of bodywork and customization, the end result was a seamless blend of the two vehicles. The interior of the Challenger now boasts Tesla features, including a custom metal seat, while retaining the functionality of the radio and climate controls.
The performance of the modified Challenger, dubbed “Cybercat” by the team, is nothing short of impressive. With all-wheel-drive and 1,020 horsepower, the vehicle accelerates from a standstill with unmatched speed and minimal noise. The BoostedBoiz are eager to put their creation to the test on the track and are looking forward to the reactions it will elicit from car enthusiasts.
As the automotive world continues to evolve with the introduction of electric vehicles, projects like the Tesla-powered Challenger serve as a reminder of the endless possibilities for innovation and creativity in the industry. Stay tuned for more updates on this electrifying build from the BoostedBoiz team.