Electron Meddling
Moving forward is, however, something the E-10 does with style. With apologies to Toyota, this ain’t no Prius! GM estimates output at 450 horsepower, resulting in 0-60 mph sprints in the neighborhood of 5 seconds and quarter mile times in the high 13 second range. “General Motors has the in-house talent required to create a concept like the E-10,” added GM’s Jim Campbell. “With the innovative thinking and expertise our performance team, electrification team and many others at GM bring, this project went from concept to running vehicle in 18 weeks to demonstrate what the future of an eCrate propulsion system and hotrodding could look like.”
Lightning’s Thunder
One thing future hotrodders might miss is the unmistakable roar of a high-powered motor, though GM and other electric vehicle manufacturers have begun to address that issue. In the case of the E-10, a sound emulator working through a trio of tuned speakers simulates the sounds of an induction system up front and the throbbing growl of a vintage Chevy V8 back at the faux exhaust pipes. Drivers have five different sound modes to choose from, including LS7 Z28 track tuning, LS7 Z28 touring turning, a classic V8 engine, a futuristic sound (The Jetsons, anyone?) or silence. Completing the aural impression of an ICE, the sound emulator can automatically adjust to match the transmission gear changes.
Eat Or Be E-10
“The E-10 Concept builds on the experience and momentum generated by last year’s eCOPO Concept, taking the idea of a ‘crate’ electric propulsion system further by leveraging actual production components,” said Russ O’Blenes, director of Performance Variants, Parts & Motorsports. While the E-10 is a one-off concept vehicle in the purest sense – don’t even think of running down to your local Chevy dealer and driving one off the showroom floor – it’s obvious that GM has its eye on future customers, auto hobbyists AND regular folks who simply feel the need for speed. Those things may change but they most likely won’t go away, and GM intends to be there for the long term. “It’s all still in the testing stage,” stated O’Blenes, “but this concept brings the electric option for hot rodders much closer to reality.” (images and information via Chevrolet)
Already got an electric vehicle but need to “fuel” it up? Check out Plug This: 8 International EV Charging Station Signs!

