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The Silver Scorpion EV: Where Classic Meets Electric Power in Temecula

JEROME ANDRE . July 24, 2023 . All EV Vehicles
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A Silent Force of Electric Power

An automotive revolution is taking place in the heart of Temecula, California. Bill Cardoso, chief executive officer of Creative Electron and Scorpion EV who earned a doctorate in electrical and computer engineering, has breathed new life into an iconic sports car, transforming it into a silent predator of the twisty roads and tracks. Meet the “Silver Scorpion,” a 2022 Scorpion EV Scorpion 600. This beast seamlessly merges the timeless design of a Cobra with the cutting-edge technology of a Tesla powertrain.

The genesis of the Silver Scorpion arose during the COVID-19 lockdown as a passion project between Cardoso and his 11-year-old son. Being sensitive to loud noises, his son could not join him in the exhilarating drives offered by traditional sports cars. Determined to bridge the gap between his love for Cobras and his desire for a quiet driving experience, Cardoso embarked on an ambitious mission to create an EV Cobra like no other.

The foundation for the Silver Scorpion was laid upon a Factory Five Racing MKIV roadster chassis, meticulously modified and optimized for electric performance. Utilizing the expertise of Scorpion EV and the engineering prowess of Factory Five Racing, the team embarked on a six-month journey that would result in a true marvel of engineering.

The Nitto 555 tires bring excellent grip and stability, allowing for thrilling cornering.
The custom-built battery boxes hold 16 Tesla S packs, providing impressive range and power.

Seamless Integration

At the heart of the Silver Scorpion lies a 2019 Tesla Model S Performance motor, generating a staggering 550kW or 740hp and 1.100+Nm/812 lb-ft. The custom-built motor and transmission mounts, designed based on the independent rear suspension of the Factory Five MKIV roadster, allowed for seamless integration of the Tesla powertrain. The result? A mind-boggling 0 to 60 time of just 2.5 seconds firmly established the Silver Scorpion as a force to be reckoned with.

With its powerful Model S drivetrain, the Silver Scorpion can go from 0 to 60 in just 2.5 seconds.

Powering this venomous predator is a custom battery system consisting of 16 Tesla S battery packs that provide 90 kWh. Strategically placed at both the front and rear of the vehicle, these battery packs maintain a perfect 50/50 weight distribution, ensuring optimal handling and performance. With a highway range of 350 miles and a city range of 400 miles, the Silver Scorpion eliminates range anxiety and opens up a world of possibilities for its owner.

Iridium Silver

While the mechanical prowess of the Silver Scorpion is unquestionable, its aesthetics are equally captivating. Adorned in a mesmerizing Mercedes Iridium Silver paint, the Silver Scorpion proudly retains the iconic body design of a Cobra, staying true to its heritage. The sleek lines and unmistakable silhouette draw the attention of onlookers, who can’t help but be captivated by it.

Inside the cockpit, the Silver Scorpion offers a harmonious blend of classic Cobra elements and modern amenities. Factory Five traditional Cobra barrel seats provide a comfortable and supportive driving experience, while the custom mahogany wooden steering wheel exudes elegance and sophistication. Embedded on the center console are controls for various functions, including turn signals, headlights, and the horn, seamlessly integrating modern technology into the timeless design.

Cardoso’s vision for the Silver Scorpion extends beyond his enjoyment. The passion project has evolved into Scorpion EV, a company that aims to allow others to experience the thrill of driving a quiet Cobra. The Silver Scorpion has appeared at prestigious events such as the London Cobra Show, Fully Charged San Diego, and the SEMA Show, captivating enthusiasts and skeptics alike.

Bill Cardoso, owner of the Silver Scorpion and his venomous creation.
The Cobra’s iconic body remains unchanged, maintaining its original charm and appeal.

What’s Next? A Bombshell!

The Silver Scorpion is a testament to the incredible possibilities at the intersection of classic design and modern electric technology. Yet, Cardoso was just getting started! He has just introduced his complete conversion package to convert your own Cobra or car of your liking.

Unlike other conversion kits, Venom is an all-in-one solution that seamlessly integrates into the engine bay, utilizing standard engine mounts and connecting to the existing clutch, transmission, drive shaft, and differential. With its user friendly design, Venom offers a hassle-free and straightforward conversion experience.

Compact and powerful, the Venom kit is approximately the size of a small block Ford/GM engine and weighs 770 pounds/350kg. Its heart lies in the Hyper 9 motor, combined with seven Tesla S battery packs, boasting a total capacity of 45 kWh and generating an impressive output of around 125kW/170hp.

The Venom kit includes an Elcon 6.6kW charger and a DC/DC converter to ensure efficient charging. The battery pack is effectively managed by an Orion BMS2, optimizing performance and maintaining the system’s longevity. With three connectors, including a 31-pin I/O connector for seamless dashboard integration, a 12V battery input, and a J1772 connector for convenient charging, the Venom kit offers a comprehensive and streamlined conversion solution.

Venom Kit Venom kit includes a built-in conversion system in one unit: Hyper 9, Tesla Model S modules, 6.6kW charger, DC/DC converter and an Orion BMS2. It’s all there and could streamline the way we convert cars significantly.

The Venom EV conversion kit opens up a world of possibilities for car enthusiasts and individuals seeking to embark on an eco-conscious journey. With its user friendly installation process and impressive performance capabilities, Venom paves the way for much more straightforward conversion for DIYers and the trade. And we could not be more supportive of this exciting evolution.

 

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SPECS

Bill Cardoso

  • Location: Temecula, CA
  • Model: 2022 Scorpion EV Scorpion 600
  • Vehicle Name: Silver Scorpion
  • Overall Vehicle Weight: 2,660 pounds
  • Amount of Time to Build: Six months
  • Price: $185,000
  • Occupation: CEO of Creative Electron and CEO of Scorpion EV

Motor & Drivetrain 

  • Motor Installation:  Scorpion EV
  • Motor Drive Unit Year, Make, Model: 2019, Tesla, Model S Performance
  • Horsepower in Kilowatt: 550kW/740hp
  • Voltage: 400V
  • Motor/Transmission Mounts: Custom-built mounts based on the IRS of the Factory Five MKIV roadster
  • 0 to 60 Time: 2.5 seconds
  • Controller: EV Controls
  • Vehicle Weight: 2,660 pounds

Battery System & Charger

  • Pack Design: Custom Scorpion EV battery boxes controlled by Orion BMS
  • Cell Type: Tesla Model S battery packs
  • Battery Capacity: 90 kWh
  • Battery Locations: Front and rear for 50/50 balance
  • Highway Range: 350 miles
  • City Range: 400 miles
  • Regen Type: Tesla
  • Charger Rate: 6.6kW
  • Charger Location: Le Mans fuel cap
  • DC Fast Carging: CHAdeMO

Chassis/Suspension 

  • Installation Shop: Scorpion EV
  • Chassis: Factory Five Racing, MKIV Roadster
  • Rear Suspension Setup: Customer IRS based on FFR’s IRS
  • Control Arms: Custom so we could fit the Tesla S motor inside the IRS to replace the differential
  • Spindles: Ford
  • Springs: Eibach
  • Shocks: Koni

Wheels, Tires, & Brakes 

  • Front Wheels: Vintage Wheels pin drive 17×9 Cobra 427
  • Front Tire: Nitto 555 275/40R17
  • Rear Wheels: Vintage Wheels pin drive 17×11 Cobra 427
  • Rear Tires: Nitto 555 315/35R17
  • Front Brakes:  Wilwood, 6-piston
  • Rear Brakes:  Wilwood, 4-piston
  • Axles: Porsche racing

Body/Paint 

  • Paint Shop: Miller Customs
  • Color: Mercedes Iridium Silver
  • Body Kit: Factory Five Racing MKIV roadster

Interior 

  • Install Shop: Scorpion EV
  • Seats: Factory Five classic Cobra barrel seats
  • Gauges: Smiths Cobra gauge set from Nisonger

Contact

Scorpion EV
scorpion-ev.com