Direct Connection has reignited the HEMI legacy with the relaunch of the 1,000-horsepower Hellephant A30 426 Supercharged Crate HEMI and the 354 Supercharged Drag Pak HEMI. Both engines showcase the rebirth of the brand’s high-performance program within the newly revived Street and Racing Technology (SRT) Performance division.
Relaunching the Hellephant Legacy
The Direct Connection Hellephant A30 426 Supercharged Crate HEMI engine returns with a host of engineering upgrades that build on its fearsome reputation. With 1,000 horsepower and 950 lb-ft of torque, this all-aluminum beast brings track-level power to classic and custom builds alike.
Designed for race-only or pre-1976 vehicles, the Hellephant A30 uses a newly developed GEN III aluminum HEMI block with reinforced six-bolt main caps for greater strength. The engine features a forged-steel, eight-counterweight crankshaft, heavy-duty H-beam connecting rods, and upgraded forged aluminum pistons. A new 3.0-liter IHI twin-screw supercharger feeds the 426-cubic-inch engine through a 92mm throttle body.
Engine Specs and Performance
With a 4.125-inch bore and 4.000-inch stroke, the Hellephant A30 delivers monumental power while maintaining precision. It runs a 9.5:1 compression ratio, peaks at 6,800 rpm, and requires premium fuel. Supporting systems include a high-performance hydraulic roller camshaft, 356 aluminum cylinder heads, and a lightweight billet supercharger tensioner for consistent boost pressure.
The package, priced at $34,995, can be combined with Direct Connection’s plug-and-play engine kit for simplified installation and optimized calibration. This pairing creates one of the most powerful and accessible crate engine solutions available for enthusiasts and builders.
Drag Pak Crate Engine Joins the Lineup
Fresh from powering the 2026 Dodge Charger Hustle Stuff Drag Pak, the 354 Supercharged Drag Pak HEMI engine now enters the Direct Connection catalog as a standalone crate offering. It embodies the same championship-winning technology that defines Dodge’s modern drag racing dominance.
The 354 engine features a new GEN III aluminum block, billet eight-counterweight crankshaft, and race-grade forged H-beam rods. A Whipple 3.0-liter supercharger, combined with a 3.5-inch pulley, delivers explosive boost. Internal components include Diamond forged pistons, a Mopar-spec camshaft with 0.675-inch lift, and a Jesel valvetrain for rigidity under extreme stress.
Race-Ready Engineering
Built to withstand competitive drag racing conditions, the 354 Drag Pak HEMI comes equipped with billet timing gears, a PAC Racing dual valve spring setup, and a Moroso billet aluminum oil pan. It’s designed to run on VP C16 fuel, offering optimal combustion under high load. Each engine is built to order and carries a $63,995 price tag.
For seamless integration, Direct Connection provides optional ECU and fuel kits, ensuring plug-and-play compatibility for professional and enthusiast racers alike.
Part of the Revived SRT Performance Division
Both the Hellephant A30 and the Drag Pak engines mark the first major offerings from Direct Connection under the reinstated SRT Performance umbrella. This division now oversees Dodge motorsports programs and high-performance vehicle development, including the brand’s return to NASCAR Truck Series competition in 2026.
Summary
With the Hellephant and Drag Pak crate engines, Direct Connection reaffirms its position at the heart of American performance culture. Combining legendary HEMI power with modern engineering and race-proven durability, these new crate engines carry the SRT spirit forward, fueling the next generation of custom builders and racers.
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Source: Stellantis
