GM’s first eCrate kit pairs a 400V/200hp motor with a 66 kWh NMC lithium-ion pack for converting combustion vehicles to electric.
Key Takeaways
Motor outputs 200 hp / 266 lb-ft torque; battery is 66 kWh NMC, weighs 947 lbs, and measures roughly 71 x 50 inches.
Requires a GM 4-speed automatic (4L60/65/70/75) with external mode switch; manual transmission support not yet available.
Charging: Level 1 adds ~1%/hr, Level 2 ~10%/hr, Level 3 DC fast charge hits ~75% in one hour.
Sold exclusively through authorized installers (currently Lingenfelter); kit ships directly to installer, not end buyer.
Direct-drive variant is on the roadmap but not yet available; horsepower is locked and cannot be increased.
Hacker News Comment Review
The authorized-installer-only sales model is the dominant criticism: builders expected a self-install product and see the restriction as contradicting the “crate” concept entirely.
The 947 lb battery footprint (71 x 50 in) severely limits compatible vehicles; commenters note most classic car chassis cannot accommodate it without major structural work.
At a reported $27k, the price undercuts the use case: salvaged EV drivetrains from crashed Teslas or Bolts are widely available for far less with no installer gating.
Notable Comments
@fwipsy: Flags that the ~1.5m-square battery footprint makes most non-truck fitments impractical without chassis reconstruction.
@GenerWork: Notes the 4-speed automatic requirement is “incredibly ancient” given modern drivetrains run 8-10 speeds.
