Unleashing the Beast: A Look at the 2021 Chevy Beast Concept
On the frontlines of the SEMA Show, Chevrolet proudly showcased the Beast — a conceptual embodiment of their relentless pursuit for superior high-performance desert running. This four-passenger off-roading marvel sits on a modified Silverado chassis, wears a unique pickup body, and is propelled by a monstrous Chevrolet Performance LT4 650-horsepower supercharged crate engine.
The Vision Behind the Beast
With the Beast, Chevrolet sets a new benchmark for high-performance off-road trucks. Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of Performance and Motorsports, suggests the Beast represents a new dimension of Chevrolet performance capability, building on the brand's half-century legacy of pioneering performance and supporting customer personalization.
Engineering Dominance
Constructed to reign over the desert, the Beast's abilities originate from an amalgamation of production-based designs and readily available performance enhancements. The basis for the Beast is the chassis of a Silverado short-bed model, which was customized for high-speed desert runs. The frame underwent shortening, while a meticulously crafted, 4130 chromoly tubular safety structure was integrated. The modified chassis is enveloped in a custom, lightweight body designed specifically for the rigors of off-road adventures.
Suspension and Performance
What sets the Beast apart is its innovative long-travel off-road suspension system, complete with a five-link rear suspension. The 91-inch (approx. 7.58 feet) widened track adds to the stability and control during high-speed off-road maneuvers. At the heart of the Beast lies a Chevrolet Performance LT4 crate engine — a 6.2L supercharged V-8 delivering 650 hp. Paired with a 10L90 10-speed automatic transmission, the power is transferred to a two-speed case and then dispatched to the 37-inch tall off-road tires mounted on 20-inch beadlock wheels.
Aesthetic Appeal with Purpose
More than just a powerful machine, the Beast has been designed with a distinctive style that mirrors its functionality. Tubular doors and a lightweight clamshell-type front end nod to the aesthetic of desert running. The vehicle's rear has been designed with minimal overhang to maximize the angle of attack on steep inclines. The Beast also showcases a custom front grille, front and rear bowtie emblems, and potent off-road lighting from Baja Designs®.
Interior Design
The interior cabin of the Beast reflects a minimalist yet functional design, including four Recaro® performance seats with four-point harnesses. Two 7-inch-diagonal LCD screens deliver real-time vehicle function and performance data, such as pitch and roll during off-road adventures.
At a Glance: Beast's Specifications
Boasting a wheelbase of 126.87 inches (approximately 10.57 feet), an overall length of 204 inches (about 17 feet), and a ground clearance of 13.5 inches, the Beast delivers a sturdy yet agile performance. It features a superior approach angle of 45 degrees and a departure angle of 46.5 degrees. The Beast's maximum suspension travel is 12 inches (1 foot) in the front and 15.5 inches (about 1.29 feet) in the rear. This robust concept truck rides on 20 x 10-inch Raceline RTM260M Avenger True beadlock wheels shod in 37 x 13.5-inch AMP Terrain Attack M/T tires. Braking power is supplied by four-wheel discs, complemented by Chevrolet Performance Brembo® front brakes with six-piston calipers.
In summary, the Chevy Beast concept is a daring exploration into the future of off-road performance, combining unique design elements with powerful performance upgrades. However, it's worth remembering this is a concept — we can only wait to see how Chevrolet takes these ideas forward in its future lineup.
-Ed
2021 Chevy Beast Concept
