Streamed from the official YouTube channel TFLEV .
HERE IS EXACTLY WHAT IT TAKES TO EV-SWAP AN OLD FORD TRUCK AND TURN IT INTO A TESLA: CHARGEZILLA EP.2
TFLEV
Content Quality Score
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This episode details the extensive process of EV-swapping a 1965 Ford F-100, dubbed 'Chargezilla'. The build, a collaboration between 101 Motors and Legacy EV, focuses on a frame-off restoration and the integration of Tesla-derived components, including dual electric motors and a torque reduction box mated to the original transfer case. Key challenges involved dealing with rusted bolts and a stubborn steering shaft, but the team successfully removed the body and transmission. The video highlights the custom battery placement, with one pack under the hood and another in the former spare tire location, preserving the truck's bed and interior. The reviewer notes the truck's quiet operation and impressive acceleration, with a reported 40 miles driven using 59.6 kWh of the 78 kWh total capacity. The integration of modern displays and charging capabilities (Level 2 J1772) is also showcased. While the video doesn't delve deeply into long-term reliability or a full range test, it effectively demonstrates the complexity and potential of such a conversion.
Vehicle Specs
| Brand | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | F-Series |
| Year | 1965 |
| Body | F-100 |
| Drivetrain | AWD |