Chevrolet has just unveiled the new C8 Corvette Z06 and this new sports car is just purely awesome. Nevertheless, Chevrolet has been reported planning to launch an electrified version of the Corvette for the 2023 model year – the rumored Corvette E-Ray. Chevrolet should be better hurry up, or else automotive influencer Rich Benoit – also known as Rich Rebuilds on YouTube – will beat them to it, with a twist.
Rich Rebuilds Had Converted Tesla Into A V8 Machine
As Rich's YouTube name indicates, he has been involved in rebuilding various cars or converting them to give these vehicles a new lease on life. This is not the first time that Rich would be converting a vehicle with an internal combustion engine into an electric car. In 2020, Rich commenced a conversion project that transforming a luxurious MINI Cooper into an electric vehicle. He completed the project within the year.
Interestingly, Rich also does the reverse – transforming EVs into ones powered by internal combustion. An example of this would be Rich’s Tesla Model S. He took a V8 engine from a Corvette and then shoehorned it inside the Tesla. It was a delicate process as the Model S was not made for such conversion. Yet, Rich managed to complete the project, even brought it to the 2020 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.
Transforming A C4 Corvette Into An EV Cheaply
Now, Richie has embarked on doing the reverse – transforming a Corvette into an electric sports car. However, Rich thought it would be a waste to transform just any Corvette into an operational EV. So, Rich decided to purchase a used C4 Corvette, which he considers as the worst Corvette ever. That is his opinion, though, and it may run counter to the views of Michael Jordan, whose very first car was a Chevrolet C4 Corvette Stingray.
Rich’s plans for the transformation sounds quite simple -- just install the electric motor or motors and made it work. As simple as it may sound, the project may not be an easy one, considering that the C4 Corvette may not be able to handle an electric motor. Likewise, Rich wants to the conversion as cheap as possible.
Early Indications Of A Failed Conversion Project?
Rich’s Corvette EV project reached a few hiccups as soon as he purchased the C4 Corvette. First, the lady seller seemed to have some issues. Then, the car broke down the middle of the highway. Rich and his companion needed to go home, and had to abandon the sports car. Eventually, they came back and towed the car away.
Source: Rich Rebuilds