Building an Electric Supercar: Jeremy Snow’s Journey to Create Wattson

Jeremy Snow’s All-Electric K-1 Attack Car

Nestled among the snow-capped peaks of Salt Lake City, an audacious project sparked to life, one that would see the fusion of kit car culture and cutting-edge electric powertrain technology. Here, in the unassuming confines of a home garage, Jeremy Snow embarked on a three-year odyssey to transform the 2018 K1 Attack into a paragon of electric performance. Meet Wattson, his home-built electric supercar!

Jeremy’s story is not of an affluent collector adding another exotic to a lined garage but a true enthusiast with a vision transcending the conventional path of automotive passion. Dissatisfied with the notion that supercar experiences were reserved for the few, he embarked on a journey that began with a simple yet profound decision—to build rather than buy, to create rather than consume.

With a clear vision and a $56,000 budget, Jeremy’s journey into the realm of electric supercars began. The project’s heartbeat was a 2014 Tesla Model S Performance large drive unit, promising a formidable 450 kW (600 hp) and 600 Nm (450 ft-lb) torque. The ambition was clear: to match the style of supercars with the sheer force of electric propulsion.

The Transformation

The K1 Attack served as a blank canvas for this ambitious transformation, bringing a supercar silhouette within reach. However, Jeremy’s iteration would diverge from the internal combustion engine’s roar. Instead, he fitted the sleek chassis with the Tesla’s electric heart, harnessing 400V to spin up to a dizzying 18,000 RPM, catapulting Wattson from 0 to 60 in a blistering 2.5 seconds, and crossing the quarter mile in 11.1 seconds.

Revel in the process, seek joy in the challenge, and cherish every victory, big or small.

But raw power was only part of the equation. The need for sustainable, reliable energy led Jeremy to a 32 kWh battery pack sourced from a Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Cleverly split into two packs, the LG Chem Lithium-Ion pouch cells endowed Wattson with a city range of 125 miles – and significantly less when Jeremy’s right foot gets heavier. His pragmatism shone through in the details. The charger, tucked behind the license plate, offers a modest 2.7kW charge rate—no DC fast charging here.   Simplicity and efficiency prevail.

With a clear vision and a $56,000 budget, Jeremy’s journey into the realm of electric supercars began.

The K1’s original suspension components were reimagined, now featuring QA1 custom coilovers and Model S control arms, marrying Tesla’s engineering with racing-inspired dynamism. The braking system, vital to harnessing Wattson’s velocity, boasts 4 piston Brembo brakes on both the front and rear wheels.

Externally, Wattson wears its electrified soul with pride. The body is bathed in a bespoke Sub Zero Blue Pearl coat from Eastwood, its rear fenders artfully flared to accommodate the widened stance necessitated by the Tesla subframe. Inside, the car’s futuristic heart coexists with a nod to tradition through a Pioneer audio system, ensuring that Wattson’s cabin is as much a sanctuary as it is a cockpit.

The journey of building Wattson has been more than a technical exercise. It has been an enriching, communal experience, with family and friends pitching in, advice from online communities, and unexpected roadblocks turning into learning experiences. Loss of isolation issues were met not with defeat but with innovation, such as integrating a fingerprint scanner for the start/stop button and eschewing the need for a key.

The result is not just a machine but a narrative of achievement and the boundless potential of electric propulsion.

Jeremy’s advice for those looking to tread a similar path is clear: revel in the process, seek joy in the challenge, and cherish every victory, big or small. The result is not just a machine but a narrative of achievement and the boundless potential of electric propulsion. Jeremy has since built another electric car, check out his YouTube channel, Electric SuperCar,  and has even recently opened his shop in Salt Lake City : Electric Supercar – however, he doesn’t only do conversion on supercars. His current customer-order is a 1958 MGA!

SPECS

2018 K1 Attack

• Owner Name: Jeremy Snow
• Location: Salt Lake City, UT
• Vehicle Name: Wattson
• Overall Vehicle Weight: 2580 lb
• Time to Build: 3 years
• Cost to Build: $56,000

Motor & Drivetrain

• Motor Drive Unit: 2014 Tesla Model S Performance large drive unit
• Power: 450kW (600hp)
• Torque: 600Nm (450 ft-lb)
• Voltage: 400V
• Max RPM: 18,000

Battery System & Charger

• Pack Design: Dual packs, 96 cells each, LG Chem
• Battery Capacity: 32kWh
• City Range: 125 miles
• Charger kW Charge Rate: 2.7kW

Chassis/Suspension

• Chassis: Modified K1 Attack frame to fit Tesla subframe
• Suspension: QA1 custom coilovers
• Brakes: 4-piston Brembo brakes front and rear

Wheels, Tires & Brakes

• Wheels: Forgestar F14,
• 18×9 front and 19×12 rear
• ires: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, 245/35ZR-18 front and 325/30ZR-19 rear

Body & Paint

• Color: Sub Zero Blue Pearl
• Modifications: Flared rear fenders for Tesla subframe accommodation

Interior

• Audio: Pioneer head unit and speakers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the features and performance capabilities of the electric supercar launched by rapper Wyclef Jean?

Unveiling the Innovative Electric Supercar by Wyclef Jean

Rapper and musician Wyclef Jean has stepped into the automotive scene, bringing with him an extraordinary innovation—a cutting-edge electric supercar. This vehicle isn’t just another addition to the electric car market; it’s a game-changer in terms of both weight and speed.

Key Features:

• Design and Weight:This vehicle holds the title of the lightest electric supercar available, emphasizing aerodynamic efficiency and lightweight materials.
• Acceleration:A standout feature is its breathtaking acceleration capability, going from 0 to 60 mph in merely 2.3 seconds. This attribute highlights the car’s high-performance electric powertrain, delivering rapid burst speeds.
• Advanced Technology:The supercar incorporates state-of-the-art technology, ensuring not only speed but also precision and control, enhancing the driving experience.

By blending groundbreaking engineering with sleek design, Wyclef Jean’s launch sets a new benchmark in the field of electric supercars, offering an intriguing glimpse into the future of high-performance vehicles.

What is Ferrari’s stance on the development of EV battery technology for supercars?

Ferrari maintains a clear position on the evolution of battery technology for electric vehicles, especially concerning its supercars. According to Enrico Galliera, the company’s chief commercial officer, Ferrari plans to wait until after 2025 before introducing an electric vehicle. The primary reason for this delay is the belief that current battery technology needs several years of advancement to meet the high standards associated with Ferrari’s legacy. Gallieraemphasizes that significant improvements in battery performance are necessary to align with what Ferrari represents in terms of performance and heritage.

What new efforts are being made by Chinese internet entrepreneurs in the electric supercar market?

Chinese internet entrepreneurs are actively stepping into the electric supercar arena, launching bold new ventures to shake up the automotive landscape. Among these efforts is a fresh initiative to bring an innovative electric supercar to the market, showcasing cutting-edge technology and sustainability.

Tech giants in China, such as Xiaomi and Alibaba, are not just speaking about their ambitions but are actively making moves to enter the electric vehicle sector. Their interest doesn’t just stop at regular electric vehicles; there’s a significant emphasis on the high-performance supercar segment.

In particular, companies like LeTV, known for its streaming services, are moving beyond their traditional domains. They’re not only planning to develop their own all-electric supercar but are also contributing significant financial backing to multiple other high-end electric vehicle projects.

These ventures reflect a broader trend among Chinese companies to craft electric supercars that blend luxury with ecological responsibility, marking a significant shift in the global automotive industry.

What is Citroën’s DS Automotive planning to unveil at the Geneva Motor Show?

<Citroën>’s luxury division, DS Automotive, is set to reveal a groundbreaking innovation at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. This highly anticipated debut will feature an all-electric supercar, showcasing the company’s commitment to combining luxury with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. Stay tuned for this exciting unveiling that promises to captivate automotive enthusiasts worldwide.

What is AEHRA and what are its plans for electric vehicles in the supercar market?

AEHRA is an emerging global brand dedicated to transforming the world of electric vehicles, particularly in the realm of high-end luxury cars. With aspirations to redefine electric mobility through the lens of Italian craftsmanship, AEHRA has tapped into expertise by bringing on board specialists from esteemed automotive giants like Lamborghini and Ferrari.

The company’s immediate goal is to shake up the automotive industry by blending signature Italian design aesthetics with top-notch engineering. To kick off its ambitious plans, AEHRA is preparing to unveil two innovative electric vehicles: a “supercar sedan” that promises to deliver both performance and luxury, and a versatile SUV. These introductions signal AEHRA’s commitment to making a substantial impact in the supercar segment of the EV market.

Why is there still interest in developing electric supercars despite the presence of many high-end electric vehicle companies?

Jeremy’s story is not of an affluent collector adding another exotic to a lined garage but a true enthusiast with a vision transcending the conventional path of automotive passion. Dissatisfied with the notion that supercar experiences were reserved for the few, he embarked on a journey that began with a simple yet profound decision—to build rather than buy, to create rather than consume.

While Jeremy’s personal quest is fueled by a desire to democratize the thrill of driving, the automotive world remains captivated by the allure of electric supercars. The interest in these high-performance machines is not merely about competition or one-upmanship among existing high-end EV brands. Instead, it is about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible—crafting vehicles that merge art, science, and technology into a singular, electrifying experience.

The emergence of electric supercars represents the pinnacle of innovation in the automotive sector. They symbolize a future where performance is not sacrificed for sustainability, but rather enhanced by it. This relentless pursuit of excellence keeps the industry buzzing with anticipation, as each new model promises to redefine speed and style in the age of electricity.

Jeremy’s journey and the broader industry’s fascination with electric supercars converge on a shared goal: to elevate the driving experience to new heights while embracing the future of automotive technology. This shared vision is what makes the continued development of electric supercars not only relevant but necessary in a rapidly evolving world.

What are the current trends or developments in the electric supercar industry?

The electric supercar industry is witnessing significant advancements, with companies introducing high-performance concepts like the 1 MW model from Toroidion. These developments highlight the ongoing efforts to enhance the power and efficiency of electric vehicles, pushing the limits of what electric supercars can achieve.

Why is there excitement around new super-EVs?

There is a growing enthusiasm for electric supercars because they represent the future of high-performance vehicles with eco-friendly technology. The anticipation is fueled by the potential to see more supercars powered by electric batteries, offering a shift from traditional gasoline engines to innovative, sustainable alternatives.