GM Performance Director Gives Detailed Overview of Chevy Camaro eCOPO Concept

1320 Video recently caught up with Russ O'Blenes, who is in charge of a very important and future-focused job: development regarding the all-electric Chevy Camaro eCOPO concept for GM. The future of electric performance vehicles is going to be thrust in the spotlight in a major way soon, and all of us here at Chuck Hutton have been fascinated with the potential, performance, and versatility of the electric motor in the Camaro eCOPO concept.

For many years, GM “Crate” engines have been the core of our performance line. After many hours of thought, research, and testing, a package was developed that was the ultimate solution for a direct replacement for a small block Chevy. The flex plate bolts right on, and any torque converter pulls up to it with ease. When asked in detail about the torque factor and exactly when the electric crate motor could be available to hot rod enthusiasts in the future, Russ laments that “it's more of a when than an if.” after a very strong reception during SEMA, it was recognized that even though gasoline has dangers, consumers have become comfortable, and began to realize the possibilities.

In regard to electrification, people are still in the early learning stage, and Russ is eager to expand on the element of safety that many are understanding needs to be learned and understood. The electric eCOPO offers up 720 hp, in a fashion of power provision that was previously only dreamed of.  Even though the torque spec sits a bit lower then what some may expect, it is truly amazing that we are peeking in on such a time of dire change, where pioneers such as Tesla have paved the way for a more receptive climate in terms of electrification.

You can view the video here, and at about 3:36 you get a glimpse of raw drag action. It is true that some may be overly amazed that this is an electric car, period. How the motor is designed is based on how much power is needed, and the battery weight is about 750 lbs total. Batteries are situated two in the backseat, two in the trunk, and under the hood is the dual motor assembly. The batteries are water-cooled courtesy of partner Hybrid Design Systems, and the high level of voltage is an element that has to be constantly considered in terms of safety. 800 volts and 1400 amps are quite serious in terms of sheer muscle factor.

Here at Chuck Hutton of Memphis, we realize that many of our customers have become very used to driving around gas-powered vehicles, and that the change on the horizon can sometimes be a different stretch to adapt to. We will keep you posted on how things progress with electrification in general, and just how fast this glimpse of the future will be arriving permanently on our showroom floor!