30/06/2026
"Where are the Australian cars?"
We've been asked that a few times recently.
Meet Barry's Holden Commodore ute.
Or, as it's become known around the workshop...
POWERTUNE STRAYA. 🇦🇺
At first glance, it's an LS-powered Commodore. Underneath, it's a modern driveline package integrated into a chassis that predates almost all of the technology now controlling it.
The centrepiece is a BMW-sourced ZF 8HP automatic transmission, managed by a Turbolamik transmission controller and overseen by a MoTeC M150 ECU. Rather than treating the engine and transmission as separate systems, the M150 provides the platform to coordinate vehicle functions across the entire package.
This build is also moving away from its previous street-race-focused configuration.
Much of the aftermarket switchgear is being removed, the factory dashboard is being reinstated, and the wiring architecture is being redesigned around OEM-style operation. The objective isn't simply to make everything work—it's to make the vehicle behave as though these systems were designed to live together from the factory.
The end goal is a properly engineered street car that delivers modern vehicle functionality while retaining everything that makes the platform enjoyable to drive.
Although the LS1 currently remains a stock bottom-end combination, the electrical and control systems are being built around the future. A Dart-based engine package is already planned, meaning the vehicle management and driveline strategy won't need to be reinvented as power increases.
This is only the beginning of this project.
The M150 is managing far more than just the engine. Between the ZF 8HP integration, electronic wastegate control, traction control, drive mode strategies, keypad operation, C1212 display, PDM integration and factory climate control retention, there is enough engineering in this vehicle to fill several posts.
We'll dive into those systems in the coming days.
