GM introduced its new E-ROD crate engine package at SEMA.

GM Performance Parts unveiled its new E-ROD crate engine package to the automotive world at the 2009 SEMA show, providing an LS engine that can be used in vintage hot rods that features emissions equipment and components that enable it to pass California’s stringent smog tests. The new engine was unveiled to the public in a ’55 Chevy E-ROD concept vehicle at the show sporting a color scheme accented with colors found in the new E-ROD’s logo.

The '55 Chevy is a typical example of where the E-ROD engine will be a great fit for hot-rodders and classic car builders.

“It is a simple, clean and straightforward approach to building a ’55 Chevy,” said designer Dave Ross. “There are not many custom features that required labor-intensive fabrication; our goal was to depict how the E-ROD system could be incorporated in any classic vehicle, whether it’s a ’55 Chevy, street rod or ’69 Camaro.”

The E-ROD line will provide a solution for hot-rodders performing classic builds by offering engines that pass stringent smog tests.

The E-ROD package features an LS3 6.2-liter V-8 engine rated to produce 430 horsepower. GM says the engine package includes a catalytic converter, a fuel-tank evaporative emissions canister and other components that help the engine pass stringent smog tests. GM Performance Parts says it worked closely with both CARB and SEMA officials to develop this kit to provide hot-rodders with the only OEM-offered system of this magnitude.

“E-ROD represents a revolution in hot-rodding by offering an unprecedented, emissions-legal engine and emissions system that carries approval from the influential California Air Resources Board (CARB),” said Dr. Jamie Meyer, product marketing manager for GM Performance Parts. “We developed this system because it’s the right thing to do, but our engineers did not sacrifice the performance that stirs hot-rodders in the first place. It is a compromise-free package that delivers great power and efficiency, with the emissions of a modern vehicle.”

The GM booth ws packed with media and attendees checking out the clean '55 Chevy featuring the E-ROD motor.

GM Performance Parts also noted during the press introduction that the E-ROD crate engine package is already available through GM dealers, authorized GMPP retailers and via the GMPP Web site at www.gmperformanceparts.com. GM noted at the press conference that there will be more engine choices in the near future in the E-ROD line, including the LS7 and LSA.

The list price for the LS3 E-ROD package is $9,375.

Here is what is included in the standard LS3 E-ROD kit:

• 6.2-liter LS3 crate engine, rated at 430 horsepower and 424 lb.-ft. of torque
• GMPP LS3 engine wiring harness
• GMPP engine control module
• Exhaust manifolds
• Catalytic converters
• Oxygen sensors and sensor bosses
• Fuel tank evaporative emissions canister
• Mass airflow sensor and sensor boss
• Accelerator pedal (for use with the LS3’s electronic throttle)
• Air filter
• Instruction manual