Rebirth of an Icon: How the Ferrari Testarossa Became the Teslarossa

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

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.

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).

These packs are linked by high-voltage cabling and supported by a robust thermal management system, featuring dedicated radiators for both the motor and the batteries. The entire system complies with ECE R100 standards, ensuring safety without compromising performance.

Retaining Ferrari’s DNA

The challenge with electrifying a classic like the Testarossa lies in preserving its essence. Electric Classic Cars achieved this by retaining the car’s original aesthetic while introducing modern functionality. The iconic gated shifter remains, though it now controls forward, reverse, and neutral rather than gear changes. The original Ferrari gauges have been reengineered to display electric-specific data, such as power output and drive modes, thanks to a CAN/analog interface developed by Peterson Electric Vehicles.

Externally, the Teslarossa appears almost indistinguishable from its combustion predecessor. Even the cavernous exhaust outlets have been subtly filled with extended slats, preserving the car’s unmistakable silhouette. Inside, the cabin retains its classic charm while integrating modern electric control systems hidden beneath the original dashboard layout.

Enhanced Handling for a New Era

While the original Testarossa was a capable GT car, its handling could never be described as razor-sharp. The Teslarossa changes that with a combination of improved weight distribution and state-of-the-art suspension. The placement of the battery packs results in a near-ideal 47/53 weight distribution, compared to the original’s 40/60 split. This alone significantly improves cornering stability.

Owners of the Teslarossa offered by ECC gain more than just a car; they inherit a masterpiece of engineering.

To fully capitalize on this improvement, the team partnered with Race Shocks in Wales to install a Tractive semi-active suspension system. This cutting-edge setup adjusts damping in real-time, reacting to road conditions and driver inputs within milliseconds. The suspension also features multiple modes, allowing the Teslarossa to transition effortlessly between comfortable grand touring and sharp, track-ready performance.

The transformation extends to the wheels and tires. Original 16-inch wheels were swapped for 18-inch replicas, shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires measuring 285mm wide at the rear. This upgrade ensures the Teslarossa can put down all 536 prancing horses without breaking a sweat, while also improving lateral grip and braking performance.

Thanks to an aftermarket power  steering system, the Teslarossa delivers an experience that is both thrilling and refined on the road. The instant torque from the Tesla motor propels the car from 0-60 mph in under 3.5 seconds, compared to the original’s 5-second time. Despite its performance, the car remains remarkably composed, due  to the Tractive suspension and improved weight distribution. The regenerative braking system not only aids in corner entry but also extends range during spirited drives. Speaking of range, the 62kWh battery provides approximately 200 miles of real-world driving—more than enough for both exhilarating  mountain runs and cross-country GT adventures, and with CCS fast charging, the Teslarossa recharges to 80% in just 30 minutes.

Technical Marvels Behind the Wheel

A major innovation in the Teslarossa is its use of cutting-edge traction control. The GPS-based system, paired with the motor controller, monitors vehicle speed and adjusts power delivery to maximize grip. Unlike traditional systems, which rely on wheel-speed sensors, this approach reacts hundreds of times per second, ensuring smooth, controlled acceleration even on slippery surfaces.

Inside the cabin, the integration of original Ferrari components with modern electric systems showcases meticulous engineering. The CAN/analog black box not only translates electric motor data to the original dials but also repurposes them. For instance, the tachometer now displays power output, while the oil pressure gauge indicates drive mode. The result is a cockpit that feels authentically Ferrari yet perfectly suited for an electric powertrain.

Pushing the Boundaries of Classic Car Electrification

The Teslarossa is undoubtedly a philosophical statement. By electrifying a car as revered as the Ferrari Testarossa, Electric Classic Cars has proven that EV-enjoyment and heritage can coexist.

Owners of the Teslarossa offered by ECC (or their complete conversion systems) gain more than just a car; they inherit a masterpiece of engineering. The vehicle offers unprecedented reliability compared to the original, with significantly reduced maintenance needs —and even adds AC for good measure! Gone are the days of warming up the flat-12 engine or worrying about oil leaks. Instead, drivers enjoy instant performance, effortless drivability, and the satisfaction of owning a truly unique vehicle.

SPECS

Powertrain

Motor: Tesla Model S Performance Rear Drive Unit
Power Output: 536 hp (400kW)
Torque: 445 lb-ft (603Nm)
Transmission: Single-speed automatic
Drive Type: Rear wheel drive

Battery System

Total Capacity: 62kWh
Configuration: Four battery packs
Front Pack: 10.4 kWh
Mid Packs: Two packs, 10.4kWh each
Rear Pack: 41.6kWh
Estimated Range: ~200 miles (322 km)
Charging: CCS fast charging compatible

Performance

0-60 mph (0-97 km/h): Under 4 seconds
Top Speed: Approximately 180 mph (290 km/h)

Dimensions

Length: 176.6 inches (4,485 mm)
Width: 77.8 inches (1,976 mm)
Height: 44.5 inches (1,130 mm)
Wheelbase: 100.4 inches (2,550 mm)
Curb Weight: Approximately 3,800 lbs (1,724 kg)

Chassis and Suspension

Front Suspension: Independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Rear Suspension: Independent, unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, twin telescopic shock absorbers each side, anti-roll bar
Brakes: Vented discs (front: 12.17 inches / 309 mm, rear: 12.2 inches / 310 mm)
Wheels: 18-inch alloy replicas
Tires: Michelin Pilot Super Sport (front: 225/50 R18, rear: 285/50 R18)

Additional Features

Instrumentation: Original Ferrari gauges repurposed for electric drivetrain data by Peterson EV
Cooling System: Separate radiators for battery packs and motor/inverter
Safety: Complies with ECE R100 standards; includes inertia switch for automatic shutdown in collisions
Regenerative Braking: Enhances efficiency and driving dynamics

Contact: www.electricclassiccars.co.uk

US installing partners: Moment Motors, www.momentmotors.com