Dodge Unveils Six Turnkey HEMI V8 Crate Engines with Up to 1,025 HP
Stellantis' Direct Connection division has introduced an impressive new range of six turnkey HEMI V8 crate engine packages, catering to custom car builders and racing aficionados. Unveiled at the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, these packages aim to simplify complex engine swaps by offering fully integrated solutions, pairing the iconic HEMI power with essential controller kits. This strategic launch underscores Stellantis' dedication to high-performance V8 engines, even as the automotive industry rapidly shifts towards electrification. The new offerings, which span from a robust 385-horsepower 345 HEMI to an astounding 1,025-horsepower Hellephant, reflect the company's understanding of a significant market segment that continues to value the raw power and distinctive sound of a supercharged V8.
This significant product expansion aligns seamlessly with Stellantis' recent strategic moves, including the revival of the SRT brand as a dedicated performance division that now oversees Direct Connection and motorsports activities. It also demonstrates that while new twin-turbo inline-six HurriCrate engines are being introduced, the enduring appeal of traditional V8 power remains a top priority for the company. Much like the decision to reintroduce the Ram HEMI V8 for truck buyers who prefer conventional engines, Stellantis acknowledges that a substantial portion of American automotive enthusiasts considers nothing comparable to the sheer force and auditory experience of a supercharged HEMI engine.
The newly unveiled Direct Connection lineup offers remarkable diversity, providing builders with a clear path to achieve their desired power levels. The entry-level option is the 345 Crate HEMI, available in both Street Strip and Super Stock configurations, reliably producing 385 horsepower. For those seeking more, the naturally aspirated 392 Crate HEMI comes in Street Strip and Super Stock variants, featuring internal enhancements such as Redeye valve springs, an SRT Hellcat oil pump, and an advanced SRT oil cooler, all designed for sustained high-RPM operation.
At the pinnacle of this new collection are the supercharged models. Direct Connection proudly presents a Hellcrate Redeye 6.2L Supercharged package, but the standout offering is undeniably the colossal Hellephant C170 6.2L Supercharged Crate HEMI. This updated Hellephant, initially introduced several years ago, now delivers an astonishing 1,025 horsepower and 945 lb-ft of torque when fueled with an E85 blend, utilizing a formidable 3.0L IHI supercharger for its impressive output.
Each engine package is designed for ease of installation, arriving complete with a crate engine wiring harness, a power distribution center, a pre-programmed powertrain control module, and essential O2 sensors. Direct Connection has meticulously engineered these packages for seamless plug-and-play integration with either a Tremec manual transmission or the highly efficient TorqueFlite 8HP90 automatic transmission. These comprehensive kits come with a factory warranty of three years or 100,000 miles, eliminating the common electrical complexities associated with high-horsepower classic vehicle restorations. While pricing details are yet to be disclosed, all six HEMI crate engine packages are set to be available for purchase through the Mopar dealer network starting in the first quarter of 2027.
