Now deep into our SEMA 2022 coverage, we’ve discussed all sorts of projects, from budget-modded EVs to no-expense-spared restomodded muscle, but no diesel. And we’re here to change that, especially since the 1958 Apache pickup truck, which is nicknamed Divergent Chevy, is one of the most radical builds at the Las Vegas event thanks to its eclectic mix of parts.
Believe it or not, the foundation for this contraption is a 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe chassis. However, not unlike in the case of the also SEMA 2022-presented Hoonigan IndyTruck, the rear section has been replaced by a tubular chassis.
However, the similarities end there, so we’ll move on to tell you that while the identity-defining cab comes from a 1958 Chevy Apache, the bed is borrowed from a 1964 Chevy C10.
Having initially debuted at the Las Vegas show a few years back as the Divergent Chevy, the truck has returned to SEMA 2022 with a new engine. Yes, it’s still a Cummins diesel and yes, it retains the insane triple-turbo setup built by Mayhem Metal Works, but the P-pump 24V has been replaced by a 6.7L featuring a CM849 ECM (Engine Control Module) and a standalone wire harness, among others.
Also new are the electric power steering pump and the uber-vivid livery, which was signed by Creative Wraps ID. According to the turbo builder, the setup is good for at least 1,000hp and 2,500 lb-ft of torque (not afraid of the new-age electric torque monsters like the Bisimoto Moby X, this truck) and we’re assuming the fresh engine is monstrously capable.
The revised-for-2022 Divergent Chevy is the work of Jeffrey McHaddad
California-based Jeffrey McHaddad, the fabricator behind the project, put his heart into the project, along with some bits that come from brands outside the GM realm. So, the new-for-2022 Aem Electronics CD-7 digital dash seems to display graphics that remind us of Lamborghinis.
And, as you can imagine, such a Franken-build means finding a widebody wasn’t going to be an off-the-shelf situation. However, after some massaging, Clinched’s Ford Mustang overfenders seem to fit the truck perfectly. Speaking of aero, there’s a massive front splitter up front, but this is visually (and perhaps aerodynamically?) by the sky-high rear wing. For the record, here’s what people normally do when inserting serious money into a 1958 Chevy Apache truck.
There’s a mix of elaborate-looking work (custom front suspension) and zip tie presence in there (coolant lines running to the rear-mounted radiator), but this seems to fit the character of the project just fine.
The cabin appears just as spartan as before, a white-finished, roll cage-accommodating environment with a single Sparco bucket seat in red. And next to the lever for the automatic transmission—perhaps the previous Allison gearbox was retained—we find a hydraulic handbrake handle.
This rebellious Chevy truck talks to the road via 20-inch Tis Wheels shod in Toyo R888 rubber. As you can imagine, the Divergent Chevy caused quite a stir at SEMA 2022 and that has been achieved before even moving a wheel.
