Kevin Schiele and Dave Kindig Tackle a Unique Build: A Custom Electric Hot Rod!

Dave Kindig and Kevin Schiele, the dynamic duo behind Bitchin' Rides, are known for pushing boundaries in the world of custom automotive design. Their expertise spans from restoring classic cars to creating one-of-a-kind hot rods that reflect the personality of each client. Recently, they took on a unique challenge: crafting a custom electric hot rod—a build that merged the classic appeal of hot rods with the future of automotive technology.

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At Kindig-It Design, innovation and creativity are the cornerstones of every project, and this electric hot rod build was no exception. The idea of electric vehicles (EVs) gaining popularity in the muscle car and hot rod communities may have been unconventional at first, but Kindig and Schiele saw the potential to blend modern technology with timeless design.

The Vision Behind the Build

For Kindig, the electric hot rod wasn’t just about creating something different—it was about honoring the tradition of hot rods while embracing the future. Hot rods have always been a symbol of freedom, performance, and style, so maintaining those qualities while introducing electric power was key.

The custom hot rod took inspiration from traditional models, but the electric powertrain gave it a futuristic twist. Dave Kindig and his team envisioned a sleek, high-performance vehicle that would satisfy even the most die-hard fans of classic gasoline-powered hot rods. Their goal was to achieve performance and design that not only rivaled but exceeded expectations for both EVs and hot rods.

Challenges and Innovations

Electric vehicles present a different set of engineering challenges compared to conventional builds. Schiele, who specializes in chassis and suspension at Kindig-It Design, faced the unique task of integrating an electric drivetrain into the hot rod while ensuring it maintained the high level of craftsmanship and performance Kindig-It Design is known for. Working closely with their team of engineers, Schiele tackled the problem head-on, focusing on making the electric hot rod perform like a high-end sports car.

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One major concern in transitioning to electric was maintaining the raw power and torque that traditional hot rods are known for. Electric motors provide instantaneous torque, which made it possible for the team to create a vehicle with jaw-dropping acceleration. But performance wasn’t the only focus—the aesthetics had to be just as impressive. Kindig wanted to ensure that this electric hot rod still felt like a work of art on wheels​.

The Results: A Bitchin' Electric Hot Rod

The final product was nothing short of spectacular. Dave Kindig and his team designed a sleek, aerodynamic body that maintained the bold, aggressive stance of a traditional hot rod. The car featured custom bodywork, a beautifully finished interior, and the kind of attention to detail that Kindig-It Design is famous for.

What made the electric hot rod truly remarkable was the combination of its electric powertrain with classic hot rod styling. The vehicle’s power, delivered by an advanced electric motor, gave it a unique driving experience that set it apart from both traditional hot rods and other electric vehicles. The instant torque made the car incredibly fast off the line, while the smooth, silent operation of the electric motor gave it a futuristic feel.

This build wasn’t just about speed and power, though. It was also about sustainability and pushing the envelope in the world of custom cars. By taking on this electric hot rod project, Kindig and Schiele demonstrated their commitment to innovation while still paying homage to the classic vehicles that have shaped car culture for decades.

Reception and Impact

The custom electric hot rod was well-received by clients and fans alike. It represented a bold step into the future, showing that hot rods can evolve without losing their soul. Kindig and Schiele’s work on this project has sparked conversations about what’s possible in the world of custom cars, and their electric hot rod has become an example of how the automotive industry can embrace new technology while preserving its heritage.

For Kindig, this build was more than just a technical challenge—it was about showing the world that electric cars don’t have to be boring or limited to small, eco-friendly vehicles. They can be fast, stylish, and powerful, capable of evoking the same excitement as any gasoline-powered muscle car. The success of this project solidified Kindig-It Design’s reputation as leaders in the industry, unafraid to push boundaries and take on projects that others might shy away from.

As electric cars continue to grow in popularity, Kindig-It Design’s electric hot rod serves as a symbol of what’s possible when creativity and innovation collide. It’s a glimpse into the future of custom car building, where classic design meets cutting-edge technology, proving that the world of custom vehicles has plenty of surprises left in store.