Plymouth GTX Electromod: A Classic Muscle Icon Reborn as an All-Electric Concept
The electrification of classic muscle cars is gaining momentum, and this year’s SEMA show is set to highlight just how far EV technology has come with the debut of the Plymouth GTX Electromod. Stellantis, the parent company of Mopar, Dodge, and Plymouth, will showcase this all-electric 1967 Plymouth GTX with a modernized e-Crate motor at the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show. The Electromod concept not only honors the muscle car heritage but also hints at a future where electric conversions might be as accessible as traditional crate engines.
In this article, we explore the details of the GTX Electromod, from its powertrain and battery configuration to its design enhancements, showcasing Stellantis' vision for electrified classic cars.
The Electric Powerhouse Under the Hood: e-Crate Powertrain
The Plymouth GTX Electromod is powered by a single electric motor sourced from the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV, producing 335 horsepower—a substantial output for an electric retrofit. Stellantis refers to this setup as an e-Crate powertrain, a concept designed to be scalable. While the GTX Electromod produces 335 horsepower in its current configuration, Stellantis revealed that the power could be scaled up with modifications to the body and frame for additional structural support. This flexibility could pave the way for enthusiasts to customize the power output of their EV conversions to fit their desired driving experience.
The e-Crate motor sits on custom-designed motor mounts and drives the rear wheels via a 3:1 gear reducer and an 8.75-inch rear axle, capturing the essence of rear-wheel-drive muscle car performance. This setup remains faithful to the raw, rear-drive experience of the original GTX while offering an innovative twist on the classic powertrain.
Battery Placement and Power Distribution
To ensure the ideal weight distribution for the Electromod concept, Stellantis has equipped the GTX with four lithium-ion battery packs. Three are positioned at the rear of the vehicle, while one is placed in the front, balancing the weight distribution for stability and control. Each battery pack weighs approximately 230 pounds, providing a total of 73 kWh of capacity, which Stellantis estimates will give the GTX a range of about 250 miles on a full charge. This setup offers the range necessary for modern driving while staying true to the essence of a long-haul muscle car.
Operating on a 400-volt electrical system, the GTX Electromod promises compatibility with most public charging infrastructure. However, Stellantis has not yet disclosed specific charging rates or times, leaving some questions about how quickly this system could recharge on standard or fast-charging stations. Nevertheless, the 400-volt architecture represents a solid baseline for an electric conversion and offers a hint at what classic car owners might expect if e-Crate powertrains become available for consumer purchase.
Design Enhancements: Balancing Modern Touches with Classic Style
The design team at Stellantis has preserved much of the iconic style that makes the 1967 Plymouth GTX such an admired vehicle. Still, they have made a few upgrades to accommodate the new electric powertrain and to optimize the car for its new EV purpose.
Lightweight Carbon Fiber Elements
To offset the additional weight of the battery packs, Stellantis incorporated several carbon-fiber components into the GTX Electromod’s design. Carbon fiber not only reduces weight but also provides enhanced durability, allowing the GTX Electromod to maintain performance while supporting the demands of the electric powertrain. This balance between classic looks and lightweight materials aligns with the trend of blending vintage aesthetics with modern engineering in restomod projects.
Interior Updates: Custom Gauges and EV-Specific Displays
Inside, the GTX Electromod’s dashboard has been refreshed with custom analog-style gauges that mimic the classic look but include modern EV-specific readouts. The updated cluster provides drivers with real-time information on battery charge, motor temperature, and overall power output, adding functionality without compromising the car’s vintage charm. A rotary shift knob borrowed from the Dodge Durango gives a contemporary touch to gear selection, while staying within the Mopar family’s design language.
Performance and Market Implications: EV Muscle Cars on the Horizon
Although Stellantis hasn’t released full performance metrics for the GTX Electromod, they have confirmed that the car has been tested at speeds exceeding 100 mph. The performance aligns with what one might expect from an electrified muscle car that combines the iconic lines and aggressive stance of a classic Plymouth GTX with the torque and acceleration unique to EVs.
The GTX Electromod concept also signals a significant step forward for the EV crate motor industry, as Stellantis is not the only automaker exploring the potential of electric powertrain kits. Ford and General Motors have been developing their own versions, while companies like Mini have already introduced EV conversions for classic models like the Mini Cooper. As more automakers enter the EV crate engine market, consumers may soon find a range of electric conversion options for their favorite classics.
Future of Electromodding: Embracing Heritage with Technology
The Plymouth GTX Electromod showcases a promising future for the restomod community, where classic car enthusiasts can retain the aesthetics and cultural significance of their vehicles while modernizing them with clean, efficient electric powertrains. By unveiling the GTX Electromod concept at SEMA, Stellantis is tapping into a growing trend among collectors and enthusiasts interested in merging classic car culture with sustainable technology.
The concept also illustrates Stellantis' intent to expand into the EV crate engine market, potentially opening doors for a variety of vintage vehicles to be converted into zero-emission classics. This move would allow collectors to maintain their passion for classic cars while adhering to increasingly stringent emissions regulations.
With advancements in battery technology, motor efficiency, and EV infrastructure, the notion of electromodding is becoming more accessible and attractive. By striking a balance between preservation and innovation, Stellantis’ GTX Electromod could set the standard for future EV conversions, showing that the muscle car’s heart and soul can endure in an electrified future.
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