Silverado 1500

Make
Chevrolet
Segment
Sports Car

Chevrolet Performance unveiled something pretty extraordinary last month at SEMA. The Chevy Beast concept is a four-passenger off-roader based on a modified Silverado 1500 short-bed chassis. Best of all, it's powered by the LT4 supercharged 6.2-liter V8. Total output is rated at 650 horsepower. Will it make production? Unlikely, at least in its current form but we wouldn't rule out it serving as the inspiration for something a bit more toned down later on. But one thing is for certain: the "Beast" nameplate won't be used. In fact, Chevy has dropped the name entirely from the concept itself.

Muscle Cars And Trucks confirmed the news with a Chevy spokesperson and, we gotta admit, we're a bit disappointed. "We were recently approached by an entity objecting to our use of the Beast name.

The team is evaluating alternatives for the Chevy LT4 crate engine off-road concept vehicle shown at SEMA 2021." The name the automaker is now supposedly using is simply "Chevy Off-Road Concept." Yes, it's dull but, hopefully, it's nothing more than a placeholder. It doesn't appear a rival automaker had a problem with the "Beast" nameplate, meaning no trademark and copyright infringement. When pressed further about any potential new name, Chevy's reply was very direct: there's "nothing more to add at this time."

Measuring at 204 inches in length with a 126.87-inch wheelbase, the concept now formerly known as the Beast also features a custom-built tubular safety structure and a lightweight body.

Even its off-road suspension and five-link rear suspension were custom-built. For improved overall control while racing through the desert, it's got a 91-inch widened track for improved stability and handling. All of its 650 horses are directed to all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission and a two-speed transfer case. A set of 37-inch off-road tires mounted on 20-inch beadlock wheels, a Big Brake Upgrade System, and a custom-designed grille help compete the package. Inside, there are four Recaro seats, each with four-point harnesses.

Regardless of what Chevy ultimately decides to rename, this thing will always be a beast in our book.