With overlanding becoming more of a trend every day, automakers are using SEMA as a way to show how their platforms can be used to such effect-- but the Chevrolet “Beast” concept asks: why simply crawl overland when you can run?


The Chevy Beast is a four-passenger truck based upon a modified Silverado chassis, designed to tackle difficult terrain with an affinity for desert running. Underneath the highly customized body is a Chevrolet Performance LT4 supercharged V8 paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission, putting out 650 horsepower. All that power is sent to 37-inch offroad tires wrapping 20-inch beadlock wheels. A variety of custom components, like a five-link rear suspension and 4130 chromoly tubular safety structure keep the vehicle light and capable.

 


 

Of course, MOPAR has a few tricks up their sleeve this year, too, with something a little more bulletproof in mind: the Kaiser Jeep M725 concept.

Where other SEMA builds modify a new vehicle, the M725 concept takes a 1967 Kaiser Jeep military ambulance and transforms it into an offroad machine. The desert tan paint job and eight-lug Black Rhino Armory wheels says this means business. Modified rock rails are made from heavy-gauge steel and coated with truck bedliner. Interestingly, a custom roof panel can be raised by 16 inches in order to give occupants room to stand while retrieving gear. The driver’s side also features a rear panel which can be opened to better serve outside guests.

 The M725 concept is powered by a MOPAR 392 Crate HEMI V8, putting out 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of  torque.


And it wouldn’t be MOPAR without an asphalt-hungry muscle car that has you screaming “holy moly!” Well, how about “holy guacamole?” That’s the name of this Dodge Challenger, lacquered in a custom green paint color affectionately designated as “Rotten Avocado” by Dodge designers. The interior pays homage to the original 1970 Challenger with wood panel trim, as well as seats and door panels decked out in shades of green and yellow plaid reminiscent of original colors and materials. The 20-inch Forgelines harken back to the days of mag wheeled muscle cars. The “old school meets new school” flair doesn’t end at looks. The Holy Guacamole is powered by a 392 HEMI V8, topped with a custom painted “Gold School” Shaker hood scoop.