Chevrolet electric and cruise : the sensation of virtual SEMA 2021

Normally, many enthusiasts would have traveled to Las Vegas in recent weeks, not to put on their shirts, but to attend the ultimate meeting of automotive enthusiasts, the SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) .

This year, due to the pandemic, the event was held virtually. We agree that the scope is not the same, but at General Motors (GM), a presentation caught the attention of many; the electric conversion of a 1977 Chevrolet Blazer K5.

Old tradition, new approach

GM is not yesterday offering powertrains to enthusiasts so that they can make a conversion, an operation which often leads to the improvement of the performance of their car.

Now that the company produces vehicles with electric motors, it can also offer this kind of option to consumers. And with the presentation of an old electrified Blazer for the occasion, it is clear that we are targeting the clientele of owners of older vehicles.

In fact, for the third year in a row, Chevrolet is showing off a converted old model. We got a Camaro in 2018 and a 1962 C-10 pickup last year.

At the heart of the conversion is the architecture of the Chevrolet Bolt. In fact, in the case of the Blazer K5, 90% of the components of the first served the old SUV. The 60 kWh battery grafted to the product delivers 200 horsepower, along with instant torque for great performance.

What's even more interesting is that GM is in the process of establishing a certification program for dealerships and aftermarket shops. The goal is to train as many people as possible so that the maintenance and service of these old electric vehicles can be provided.

And if GM is moving ahead in this way, it is because the public response to its presentations has been very strong. There are enough enthusiasts showing an interest in making this kind of transformation that the company has taken a strong interest in it.

And over the years, it is expected that this will only increase. This is a way to keep old models alive with modern approaches, but also to simplify the maintenance of the latter.

Not to mention doing your part to reduce polluting emissions. In short, the Chevrolet Electric Connect and Cruise package is set to come a long way. It will be available in the second half of 2021.