Full Reversal: Tuner turns Tesla Model S into a gas-powered car

Rich Benoit, from Rich Rebuilds, has recently converted a Mini Cooper into a battery vehicle for less than $3,000. Who would have thought his next big project would aim for exactly the opposite?

In the 23-minute long video, the tuner states his mission clearly enough. First of all, fitting a purebred EV with a classical Camaro LS3 V8 powertrain will be a formidable challenge, given the lack of space for all components. Furthermore, the battery assembly at the bottom grants the car much of its deformational rigidity – take it off, and a replacement will be due to keep the body rigid and stable. Overall, this looks like a valuable experience to go through.

However, the main goal of the project is to let Tesla and other automakers know that their environment preservation agenda may be not as sincere or well thought out as it may seem. While ICE car owners generally enjoy easy access to most replacement parts and repair services, Elon Musk’s business complicates these and invites people to “just buy a new car” when their old ride remains perfectly serviceable. Considering how harmful to the environment EV production is, the whole approach appears flawed to Rich Rebuilds – hence this highly unusual powertrain swap.