Electric restomods help keep classic cars on the road while still respecting the environment. There have been some interesting innovations in this space, including a new electric crate motor from Chevrolet that could open up a world of possibilities. Now, a new Italian startup company called Totem Automobili just announced a new EV classic project. Say ciao to the Totem Automobili Giulia GT Concept, a stunning work of electric art.
Based on a 1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA, Totem Automobili calls the Giulia GT a "legend reborn with electric soul." According to the company's website, the Giulia GT retains 10% of the original chassis with a new full aluminum suspension and carbon fiber body. Totem Automobili also ditched the original Alfa Romeo drivetrain in favor of an electric motor and battery packs.
Totem claims the production car will weigh less than 2,800 pounds. With so little weight to haul around, the Giulia GT presents some pretty hair-raising performance specifications. A 50.4 kWh battery pack powers an electric motor that produces 518 horsepower and 722 lb-ft of torque. A sequential automatic transmission helps rocket the car up to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds onto a top speed of 152 mph. Even the range estimates are impressive at over 223 miles on a single charge.
Inside, the Giulia GT features a completely bespoke interior that looks right on par with industry legends like Singer and Icon. The gauges retain the classic round shape enclosed in carbon fiber rings to match the air vents. It may look vintage inside, but Totem has added modern features such as an antitheft system, electric windows, keyless ignition, 400-volt heating and air conditioning system, and a vintage-style modern infotainment system. Each car will have a unique cabin crafted to the customer's specifications.
Totem doesn't mention when the production cars will be ready, but we hope the company can start producing them soon. The company was founded by Italian automotive designer Riccardo Quaggio, who previously worked as an interior designer at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and designer at Honda R&D Europe. Perhaps that explains why the Giulia GT Concept has such a stunning interior. In 2018, Quaggio started his own company, reviving classic Italian cars with a zero-emissions future.