Travis Kelce helped teens turn a 1969 Chevelle into an electric car (Getty Images)
Travis Kelce helped Kansas City teenagers turn a rusty 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS into an all-electric muscle car. Around 80 students worked on the three-year project, which later became a fundraiser for Operation Breakthrough. Students at Operation Breakthrough and MINDDRIVE began working on the Chevelle in late 2021. 80 students from more than 14 schools worked on the car between 2021 and 2024, according to KSHB’s. The vehicle used a large rear drive unit from a 2016 Tesla Model S and an 87-kWh battery pack. Its estimated range reached 250 miles, with 450 horsepower.
They replaced its traditional engine with an electric powertrain and updated the vehicle while preserving its classic appearance. The raffle did not sell enough tickets to give away the car, but the organisation still raised money for its teen workforce development programme. The outcome gave Kelce’s community work another dimension, with students gaining practical experience while helping fund future opportunities for other teenagers.
Kelce and his Eighty-Seven & Running Foundation helped get the project moving through the 2024 Kelce Car Jam. 8, 2024, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end drove the finished Chevelle to Arrowhead Stadium before the team’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Operation Breakthrough offered $100 raffle tickets, hoping to sell 2,500 and give away the car. Its official raffle announcement later named Tony Fatall as the winner of a 50/50 drawing. Fatall bought one ticket in December 2024 and received more than $30,000 after tax. Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news , check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule .
Speaking about the car on his podcast, Kelce said, “That thing is fun. I do it for the smiles on the kids’ faces at the Ignition Lab and at Operation Breakthrough,” he said. On Dec. This thing was one of a kind. When you get in there, you can feel how unique it is. He also praised the students, adding, “The kids did an unbelievable job. The project then took on a fundraising role. However, the organisation fell short of that target. The organisation’s share of ticket sales went towards its teen workforce development programme. The fundraiser fits into Kelce’s wider relationship with Operation Breakthrough, which provides educational opportunities and support for children and families in Kansas City. On the New Heights Kelce once explained why he continued supporting the organisation. “I don’t do it for the awards, I don’t do it for the acknowledgment. He also spoke about the city’s community spirit, saying, “I love getting out here in the Kansas City community, man. I really do. They show up for each other so much, and they do it with so much pride. Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines The Chevelle project gave students experience with automotive technology, teamwork and problem-solving. Its fundraising effort also helped the organisation continue building skills and connections for teenagers preparing for life after school. In Kelce’s case, the finished car offered a chance to showcase their work in front of thousands of football fans. For the students, the project provided something more practical: experience they could take into future education and careers. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.