Jason Kelce is a name you may know from football. He owns a classic 1986 Chevy K10. The truck has been a pain for years. Instead of fixing the old engine, Jason chose a bold path. He decided to turn his truck into an electric vehicle.
A New Chapter for a Classic Truck
Jason’s Chevy K10 has a rich history. It is a true American classic. Yet, it has not always run well. Tired of constant repairs, Jason looked for a better solution. He handed over his truck to a team that could give it new life. His idea was simple. Replace the old engine with a Tesla powertrain. This swap is called an EV conversion. It turns the truck into a modern electric vehicle while keeping its classic style.
The Heart of the Project: Operation Breakthrough
In Kansas City, a group called Operation Breakthrough runs programs to teach real skills. They work with at-risk youth. High school students join the project to learn welding, mechanics, and engineering. They get hands-on experience with a real car. This project shows that old trucks can be reborn with new tech. It is a win for both the truck and the community.
Fuel2Electric and MINDDRIVE Join the Team
Fuel2Electric is the largest network of EV conversion professionals in North America, connecting classic car enthusiasts with expert shops to electrify their vehicles. They help customers design their projects, find the right professionals, and bring their electric dream cars to life. This is why Minddrive partnered with them to source the perfect kit for Jason.
MINDDRIVE is a nonprofit that teaches tech and mechanics. They work with Operation Breakthrough. Their goal is to build skills in young people. Together, Fuel2Electric and MINDDRIVE support the project. They help students learn and bring the truck to life.
Power and Performance Boost
The new electric setup gives the truck a lot more power. The conversion uses a Tesla Model S drive unit that can make up to 400 horsepower. For a truck that once had only 140–165 horsepower, this is a huge jump. Electric motors deliver power fast. That means the truck can start quickly and feel more responsive.
The new battery packs, taken from a Tesla, give the truck a range of about 200 miles. With improved suspension, fresh wheels, and tires, the truck will have better handling. Although exact top speed numbers are not public yet, experts say the truck will be faster and more fun to drive than it ever was.
Specifications
Below is a table that shows the main parts and specs used in Jason Kelce’s Chevy K10 EV conversion.
| Component | Specification/Details |
| Drivetrain | Tesla Model S large drive unit |
| Battery Packs | Dual Tesla Model 3 long-range battery packs (about 82 kWh with 75 kWh usable), from Tesla Swap Package |
| Battery Management System | Vero BMS |
| Estimated Range | 200 miles |
| Horsepower | Approximately 400 horsepower |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft |
| Charge Time | < 1 hr |
| Drivetrain | Four-wheel drive (4WD) |
| Suspension | Upgraded suspension system to handle the new powertrain |
| Transfer Case | New transfer case installed |
| Wheels & Tires | New wheels and tires fitted |
| Exterior | Restored finishes with new paint to keep the classic look |
| Dashboard | Original analog gauges combined with a Dakota Digital Instrument Panel |
| Interior | Restored interior finishes |
A Bright, Electric Future
Jason Kelce’s Chevy K10 EV conversion shows that change can be exciting. It mixes the old-school charm of a classic truck with the power and speed of modern electric technology. With up to 400 horsepower and a solid range, the truck promises better performance than ever before. At the same time, this project helps young people learn valuable skills. It is a win for car lovers and the community alike.
This project proves that even a worn-out truck can be reborn with a new, electric heart. With help from partners like Fuel2Electric and MINDDRIVE, the 86 Chevy K10 now has a bright, powerful future.