From dominating the NASCAR Cup Series to creating some of the most pristine custom builds, Hendrick Performance has a reputation for winning and making big power. Recently, the Hendrick Performance team unveiled one of its latest creations: a 1970 Chevelle SS convertible, equipped with cutting-edge technology straight from Chevrolet.
A High-Tech Transformation
Led by Service Director Victor Pille, the team collaborated with Chevrolet Performance to incorporate a Connect & Cruise Crate Powertrain System into the Chevelle. This system features a supercharged LT4 crate engine paired with a new SuperMatic 10L90-E 10-speed automatic transmission.
“The LT4 has very good power, good torque, reliability, that pretty much sums it up for me,” Pille says of the 6.2L V-8 engine, which produces an impressive 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.
Engine and Transmission
The LT4 engine, topped with a 1.7L Eaton R1740 TVS supercharger, can spin up to 20,000 rpm, generating over nine pounds of boost. The SuperMatic 10L90-E transmission, with a torque capacity of 715 lb-ft, is based on the Camaro SS ZL1’s transmission and features a slip-yoke-type tail shaft, making it compatible with older vehicle prop-shaft designs and easier to install in classic cars.
“It’s the newest, the latest, greatest, and GM has done all the engineering and the work on putting that combination together in the ZL1,” Pille explains.
Comprehensive Restoration
Pille, with over 11 years of experience working for Rick Hendrick, leads a team that handles around 75 to 100 vehicles annually at Hendrick Performance in Charlotte. The division is known for providing some of the world’s most impressive collectible and exotic cars to discerning buyers. The 1970 Chevelle SS is set to join the extensive collection at the private Hendrick Heritage Museum when not in use.
Frame-Off Restoration and Upgrades
The Chevelle, originally a red 1972 model with a black top and a Small-Block engine, underwent a frame-off restoration. The original suspension was replaced with front and rear components from Detroit Speed, including a Detroit Speed 600 steering gear. A Driveshaft Shop aluminum driveshaft with 1350-series joints connects to a Ford 9-inch Truetrac positraction rear end with a 3.90 rear gear ratio.
Stopping power is provided by 13-inch Wilwood six-piston brakes with drilled rotors in the front and 13-inch four-piston brakes with drilled rotors in the rear. The package also includes a Detroit Speed power and brake booster and an E-Stopp electronic emergency brake.
Custom Enhancements
Under the hood, a carbon-fiber cover built by the Hendrick Motorsports shop protects the LT4 engine. The engine utilizes a Drive Junkie serpentine belt system, and a Fluidyne custom radiator intercooler with twin SPAL fans keeps it cool. Exhaust is expelled through ProFab custom stainless steel headers featuring two-inch primary tubes and a two-and-a-half-inch exhaust with an H-pipe for that classic hot rod rumble.
Other custom components include a stainless steel Vapor Series fuel tank from Rick’s Tanks and stainless steel plumbing for the fuel and brake systems.
Stunning Aesthetics
The Chevelle is finished in eye-catching Le Mans Blue from Axalta with painted white stripes. It rides on 17-inch American Racing Magnum 500 Series wheels with a retro look, wrapped in Nitto NT555 Extreme ZR tires measuring 245/45/17 in front and 315/35/17 at the rear.
Modern Interior
The custom interior features rich, white Ultraleather with modern, adjustable Recaro bucket seats. Hendrick Motorsports also built a custom three-piece carbon-fiber tonneau cover. Inside the dash is a Dakota Digital VHX Series instrument cluster, and Vintage Air keeps passengers cool. Additional highlights include Nu-Relics power windows, a Detroit Speed Selecta-Speed wiper kit, and a custom Kenwood stereo system with an Alpine subwoofer and Alpine speakers.
Precision Build
The team used SpeedTech engine mounts to install the Connect & Cruise system and fabricated mounts for the frame. They also did some minor tunnel and firewall fabrication to fit the engine and transmission, while other components could be bolted in.
Public Debut
The Chevelle made its first public appearance at the 2022 Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale, where it was showcased in the Chevrolet booth. Attendees had the chance to see the Connect & Cruise Crate Powertrain System up close, which is often used by Hendrick Performance for both private builds for Mr. Hendrick and his associates.
“We try to push the Connect & Cruise and the crate engines and transmissions from GM. The performance and reliability are definitely there,” Pille states.
The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle Super(Charged) is a modern classic that embodies the blend of cutting-edge technology and vintage muscle car aesthetics. With its powerful supercharged LT4 engine, advanced transmission, and meticulously crafted custom components, this Chevelle SS is a testament to Hendrick Performance’s commitment to excellence in automotive craftsmanship.
Source: Chevrolet/The-Block
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