As we approach this year's SEMA show, which will be entirely online and rebranded as SEMA360, automakers are starting to reveal some extremely cool custom builds. The latest is the Chevrolet Performance K5 Blazer-E, a 1977 K5 Blazer converted into an all-electric vehicle using Chevy's eCrate motor package, which is essentially a Chevy Bolt powertrain.

Chevy is no stranger to all-electric conversions with past examples including the 2018 eCOPO Camaro drag racer and last year's 450 horsepower E-10 Concept retro truck. For its newest creation, Chevy started with a stock '77 Blazer and then ripped out the original 175 hp 400 cubic-inch V8 and three-speed automatic transmission.

The fuel system and exhaust obviously had to go as well. The next stage involved installing the Bolt's 200 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque electric motor paired to a Chevrolet Performance electronically controlled four-speed auto. The same 60 kWh, 400-volt battery from the small hatchback was also used, along with the power inverters, motor controllers, and battery cooling management systems. All of these items are included in the eCrate package you'll be able to buy in the second half of next year. The rest of the K5 Blazer remains stock, such as the transfer case, driveshaft, and axles.

A few additional aftermarket components were also used like an electric power steering kit, an electric pump that provides vacuum to the stock braking system, and an electronic controller that drives inputs to the vintage Blazer gauges. The original fuel gauge now shows the battery's charging state.

"The K5 Blazer-E demonstrates what is possible for customers who want to convert their vintage truck to a daily driver with the instant torque and unique driving experience of an EV," said Russ O'Blenes, Chevy director of engineering, Performance and Racing. "For customers who want more extreme performance, the modular eCrate system will have virtually limitless applications."

Those who don't think the eCrate's 200 hp is powerful enough will be glad to hear that the automaker is already considering more powerful packages and battery configurations (possibly with Ultium batteries) for the aftermarket. Chevy will announce eCrate pricing shortly before it goes on sale.