Word on the Street
THE K5 Blazer-e is a functional proof of concept of the upcoming Electric Connect and Cruise package Chevrolet Performance plans to sell in the second half of 2021. During the virtual event, Chevrolet Performance will survey SEMA members interested in building their own electric projects to help finalize Chevrolet’s initial ecrate offering. “As GM introduces a new fleet of electric vehicles, it creates an exciting opportunity to bring EV technology to the aftermarket,” said Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of performance and motorsports. “Our vision is to offer a comprehensive line of Connect and Cruise systems from Chevrolet Performance—delivering a solution for every customer ranging from LSX V-8s to ecrate conversions.”
The new K5 Blazer-e retains as much of the stock Blazer as possible and approximately 90% of the new parts installed for the ecrate package are factory components from the Chevrolet Bolt EV.
To convert the ’77 K5 Blazer, the team first removed from the Blazer the original 175-horsepower 400 cubic-inch V-8, three-speed automatic, fuel system and exhaust. Then, the team installed a
Bolt EV electric motor, delivering 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Chevrolet Performance electronically controlled four-speed automatic. The rest of the Blazer drivetrain remains untouched, including the transfer case, driveshaft and axles.
Power is supplied by a 400-volt Bolt EV battery pack with 60 kilowatt-hours of usable energy installed in the cargo area. Using production controllers and wiring harnesses preserves many Bolt EV features, including shock protection, battery heating and cooling, battery-overcharge protection and even regenerative braking.
The aftermarket components include an electric power steering kit, an electric pump providing vacuum to the stock brake system and an electronic controller to drive inputs to the vintage Blazer gauges – such as displaying the battery’s state of charge on the original fuel gauge.
To prepare for the ecrate launch, Chevrolet Performance is certifying Electric Connect and Cruise installers. Participating Chevrolet dealers and aftermarket companies will receive the training, tools and equipment needed to work with high-voltage systems and charging stations to service customers’ vehicles.
Lingenfelter Performance Engineering in Brighton, Michigan, will be the first company to pilot the training and certification program. This experience will help inform the certification process for future installers.