Dodge has introduced a new lineup of Hemi crate engines under its Direct Connection brand, highlighted by a powerful 1,025-horsepower Hellephant C170 model. The new range offers six turnkey V8 packages, each designed for easy installation in custom builds, complete with matched controls and wiring.
Six Crate Engine Options from 385 to 1,025 HP
The new Direct Connection lineup starts with the 5.7-liter 345 Hemi available in Street Strip and Super Stock trims. Both versions deliver 385 hp and 417 Nm of torque, with the Super Stock featuring a new block and high-RPM valve springs borrowed from Redeye engines.
Next is the 6.4-liter 392 Gen III Hemi, also in Street Strip and Super Stock forms, rated at 485 hp and 475 Nm. This engine matches the capacity and power of the Durango R/T’s V8 but is packaged specifically as a performance swap engine.
Advancing further is the Hellcrate Redeye, a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing up to 885 hp and 787 Nm when running in High Octane Mode. This version requires premium fuel to reach its top output.
Features Simplify Installation and Use
All the crate engines come with a complete control system including a flashed powertrain control module, wiring harness, oxygen sensors, accelerator pedal, and starter relay. Buyers can choose between a TorqueFlite 8HP90 automatic or a TREMEC manual transmission, with transmission-specific modules and controls included.
Automatic setups add a shifter and brake switch to complete the package. This setup removes the need for custom tuning or hunting for compatible parts, making these engines attractive for builders wanting plug-and-play solutions.
Hellephant C170 Topped by E85-Dependent 1,025 HP Output
The headline engine is the Hellephant C170, a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi rated at 1,025 hp and 945 Nm, but only when running on E85 ethanol fuel. On regular pump gas, it cannot reach this peak output.
This version features a 3.0-liter IHI supercharger with a large throttle body, upgraded fuel rail, higher-flow injectors, and an ethanol sensor that adjusts fuel and timing based on blend ratio. This makes it one of the most advanced factory-backed crate engines for high-performance builds.
For comparison, the older Hellephant A30 crate engine uses a larger 7.0-liter 426 Hemi and produces 1,000 hp without needing flex-fuel, showing the C170’s efficiency and power boost through modern fuel tuning.
Warranty and Availability
Importantly, every crate engine in the lineup carries a three-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. This is significant for engines designed primarily for swaps, restorations, and racing, offering builders peace of mind not typically found with high-performance aftermarket builds.
Orders for the six Direct Connection crate packages will open in early 2027, allowing shops and enthusiasts to prepare for installation and build plans.
Dodge’s new Hellephant crate engine program marks a clear move to deliver high horsepower with factory-level support and simplicity for custom and racing builds, especially for those ready to use E85 fuel to unlock full power.
Source: motor1.com