This 74 Chevelle Laguna is owned by Chiefs Hall of Fame lineman Will Shields. He bought the car over twenty years ago, when he received his first NFL deal, as a tribute to his father. 

After an LS swap and fresh paint, the car spent over 20 years being moved from shops to garages until Will learned about this incredible non-profit organization: MINDDRIVE. This project-based experiential learning program serves students from around the Kansas City Metro. They have different programs, including the EV Design studio: a hands-on project-based 24-week experiential learning program that will expose students to welding and metal fabrication, electric vehicle systems, steering design, braking, automotive design, rolling resistance, robotics, synthetic molding, and much more in a mentor-based team environment.

Will owns a Tesla Model X and is a big supporter of their organization. So, he donated the car and agreed to help fundraise for the expense. When completed, the Chevelle will be auctioned off. 

The students in charge of its renovation and electric conversion specialize in metalwork, fabrication, and welding—they straighten frames themselves. They have already built numerous EVs (Electrathon racing, low-voltage, and one Tesla swap) and fabricated all the battery boxes in-house. Once the restoration is finished, it will be all-black wrapped.

They are now looking for the perfect kit for this amazingly inspiring project.

They want this car to be much more powerful than today developing over 300hp and a top speed of 130mph plus. The range is of less importance, with a goal of 150 to 170 miles. Fast charging is desired, taking less than an hour to achieve up to 80% charge.

They have no preference for the motor, although a Tesla dual motor setup seems the most cost-effective. If helpful, they are open to a wide-body modification to simplify the suspension integration. Dimensions are being checked to see if the Tesla subframe and suspension will fit.

The car would be used in performance competitions and car shows, and they would also like to drive it daily. There is no towing requirement.