SEMA 2025: BluePrint Unveils LS And ZF-8 Combo

At SEMA 2025, we caught up with Norris Marshall, founder of BluePrint Engines, to talk about one of the show’s most talked-about releases, a 376-cubic-inch LS-style engine paired with a ZF-8 automatic transmission. The setup earned the Best Hot Rod Product of the Year award, and according to Marshall, it represents years of development that bring OEM-grade refinement to the performance aftermarket.

Building The Complete Package

“The cool part about this engine is that it comes with our version of a ZF-8 transmission installed on it,” Marshall said. “It’s a factory-new ZF transmission that we worked directly with ZF for. It was about a two-year project where we actually had engineers from Italy come to our shop and teach us how to calibrate for that transmission.”

Unlike most crate setups that require assembly or additional components, BluePrint sends out a complete, fully bolted-together package. “We literally bolt it all on at our factory, and it goes out in one piece,” Marshall explained. “You just plug the cord in and you’re done. It’s super simple.”

LS Power, BluePrint Precision

The 510-horsepower, 440 lb-ft LS-style engine features BluePrint’s own aluminum intake manifold made from cast material and proprietary iron block. “There’s virtually no GM components in it,” Marshall said. “So we can’t call it a GM engine or say it’s an LS3, but it’s LS-compatible. The parts are interchangeable.”

Every engine is dyno tested in-house before it leaves the facility. “People online say we can’t possibly test every engine,” Marshall said with a grin. “But we really do. We have five production dynos running 10 hours a day. We check for leaks, vibration, power, and temperature. The dyno sheet that comes with your engine is the one from that exact test.”

Modern Control And Calibration

The entire system runs off a single ECM that manages both the engine and transmission. BluePrint has also partnered with HP Tuners to provide enthusiasts with access to calibration. “We’ve got about 5,000 miles on this setup,” Marshall said. “Most people will be able to install it and never touch a thing.”

BluePrint’s new LS and ZF-8 drivetrain combination is set to ship before the end of the year. “We want people driving them,” Marshall said. “We’re not the one-off guys; we build them so everyone can enjoy them.”