In an innovative fusion of electric power and American muscle, the YouTube channel BoostedBoiz has successfully swapped the powertrain of a Tesla Model S Plaid into a Dodge Challenger Hellcat body.

This ambitious project not only showcases the versatility of electric vehicle technology but also challenges traditional notions of performance in muscle cars.

Project Overview

The transformation began when Kyle Wade and his team at BoostedBoiz acquired a wrecked Tesla Model S Plaid, initially intending to use its high-performance electric drivetrain for a different project.

However, after encountering compatibility issues with a Honda Odyssey minivan, they pivoted to the Dodge Challenger, which shares a similar wheelbase with the Tesla.

Wheelbase Compatibility:

The Tesla Model S Plaid features a 116.5-inch wheelbase, closely matching the Challenger's 116.2 inches. This alignment made it feasible to integrate the two vehicles without extensive modifications.

Budget-Friendly Build:

The team purchased a Challenger shell for just $700, allowing them to focus resources on fitting the advanced Tesla components.

Performance Specs

The resulting vehicle, dubbed the "Cybercat," boasts impressive specifications:

  • Power: 1,020 horsepower from a tri-motor setup
  • Torque: A staggering 1,050 lb-ft
  • Weight: Weighing in at 4,330 lbs (1,964 kg), it is significantly lighter than the original Tesla Model S Plaid.

This electrified Challenger is designed to dominate drag strips with its rapid acceleration and silent operation. The combination of Tesla's advanced electric technology and the iconic muscle car aesthetic has created a unique vehicle that appeals to both EV enthusiasts and traditional muscle car fans.

Exterior:

Genuine Hellcat body panels were used to maintain the classic muscle car look.

Interior:

Most of the interior remains factory-spec Tesla, including the dashboard and seating.

Functionality:

Despite the extensive modifications, features such as climate control and audio systems were preserved.

Public Reaction

The project has garnered mixed reactions from automotive enthusiasts. While some celebrate the ingenuity behind blending two seemingly disparate vehicles, others express skepticism about altering such an iconic American muscle car.

Nonetheless, this build exemplifies how automotive enthusiasts are pushing boundaries in an era increasingly defined by electrification.

The Dodge Challenger Cybercat represents a bold step into the future of performance vehicles. As traditional automakers explore electrification with models like the upcoming Dodge Charger Daytona EV, projects like this highlight how creativity and innovation can redefine what performance means in the automotive world.

With its impressive specs and unique design, the Cybercat is sure to turn heads both on and off the drag strip.