ELECTRIFYING THE PRANCING HORSE

How a Legendary Supercar Became an EV Icon Without Losing Its Soul

- JEROME ANDRE

In the world of automotive legends, few names carry the gravitas of the Ferrari Testarossa. Its bold styling, 180-degree V-12 engine, and storied history etched it into the annals of automotive greatness. Yet, one of the most iconic cars of the 1980s and 1990s has been reborn—not by Ferrari, but by a trailblazing team of conversion experts at Electric Classic Cars. Based in Wales, UK. ECC has turned a beloved grand tourer into a modern electric beast, balancing respect for the original design with the advantages of electrification. In fact, this isn't Electric Classic Cars' first (Ferrari) rodeo, as it has previously converted two Ferrari 308s and three Testarossas—with more in the works—including in complete kit form.

THE iconic gated shifter stays, now controlling forward and reverse.

At the core of the “Teslarossa” is a Tesla Model S drive unit, delivering 536 horsepower (400kW) and 445 lb-ft (603Nm). This is a significant upgrade from the original 12-cylinder engine, which produced 385 horsepower (287kW) and 361 lb-ft (490Nm). The Tesla motor's instant torque fundamentally transforms the car's character, delivering ferocious acceleration, while maintaining control through cutting-edge technology.

The electric powertrain is fed by a meticulously designed 62kWh battery system, spread across four strategically placed packs to optimize weight distribution and handling. The setup includes a front 10.4kWh unit housed in the former spare wheel area, maintaining the original luggage compartment, two 10.4kWh packs located where the fuel tanks once resided, contributing to a low center of gravity, and the main 41.6kWh pack behind the seats, acting as the system's hub with integrated safety and control components, such as contactors, fuses, and a battery management system (BMS).