Have you ever heard about an Italian automotive manufacturer called Totem Automobili? Although we have seen a fair share of similar companies in recent times, this Venice-based startup is a bit different. Combining the passion for iconic cars with innovative engineering, they redesign iconic Italian cars, updating them with electric powertrains.
At this time, their only vehicle, the Totem GT Electric, is a modern reinterpretation of the famous Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA, and the result is quite stunning. Here’s all about this intriguing car and the idea behind it.
The Totem GT Electric
Over the past decades, the automotive industry worldwide has given us a range of remarkable and stunning cars. Many of them are very popular even today, and many drivers choose to own one. But despite the cool look and nostalgic appeal, living with a true old-timer has its own set of drawbacks. For a start, finding a popular model that is in good shape can be a challenging and expensive task. And even if they are in immaculate condition, these are still cars that use technology from the past century.
In most cases, this means there are no comfort and safety features that most drivers take for granted today. Things like power steering or air conditioning are not something that a car from the 70s is likely to have. Maintenance can be an additional issue here, as sourcing parts and components can be troublesome.
To overcome these downsides, many car enthusiasts and specialized workshops choose to restomod vehicles like these instead. As the name implies, restomodding includes the vehicle’s restoration but also the modernization of some of the components. While the interior and exterior remain relatively similar, things like drivetrain and brakes will usually give way to updated variants. In most cases, this will come together with comfort features that are more common in today’s cars.
Timeless Design
In the genuine spirit of restomodding, this car’s exterior is almost identical to the original Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA. Making any significant modifications would only spoil the already pristine appearance. After all, the Giulia GTA was already one of the best looking cars of its time.
Still, there are many updated components, and a trained eye will quickly spot the new LED headlights and modernized grille. A closer look will also reveal much wider wheel arches, which was necessary to make room for bigger wheels, and a body now entirely made of carbon fiber. Despite these subtle deviations from the original design, this modern reinterpretation closely mimics the overall appearance of the 70s cars.
The interior is an excellent example of incorporating all modern functions while keeping the recognizable retro vibe. Even the choice of materials that include carbon-fiber elements combined with soft leather and aluminum parts follows this idea. According to the manufacturer, prospective buyers will be able to customize every interior detail when ordering their car. As Riccardo Quaggio, Totem Automobili’s founder, said, “they will build every car like a dress, so it suits their drivers in all details.”
Under the Skin
While both the exterior and interior are very similar to the original Giulia, what hides underneath is quite a different story. The manufacturer claims that the Totem GT Electric now only shares 10% of the original vehicle components. Indeed, pretty much every part from the steering, suspension, and brake system are all redesigned.
For example, the suspension system was completely revamped, with a new MacPherson configuration in the front and an improved multi-link setup in the rear. Moreover, revised steering components and updated racing-style Brembo brakes take the already excellent handling of the Giulia to a whole new level.
However, the most significant change is obviously the drivetrain, which now uses an electric motor powered by a 50 kWh battery pack instead of an internal combustion one. The electric motor itself produces 518 horsepower and 720 ft-lbs of torque, sending it all to the rear wheels through a sequential transmission.
But the best part here is the overall size of the new powertrain and the fact that the engine and gearbox are now one compact unit. This configuration not only makes packing so much power in a relatively confined space possible but also significantly improves the weight balance.
To add to the classic car feel, it will even have a sound emulator mimicking the iconic engine roar of the Giulia. This is a road that many electric car manufacturers seem to be taking recently, and we’re still not sure what we think about it. I mean, really? Do we really need a fake audio soundtrack of a growling engine in the background? Isn’t it kinda similar to playing a pre-recorded Ferrari sound from inside your Honda Civic? Anyway, I digress…
Performance and price
With a 0-60 time just above 3 seconds and a top speed of 150 mph, the Totem GT Electric offers stunning performance. The 200 miles+ range itself is another strong point. It takes about 7 hours to charge it in standard mode, while a fast charging option is available for production cars. But the best part about it is the speed and level of control when going around corners. Thanks to the sturdy chassis and carbon-fiber body panels keeping the weight down, it’s quite nimble for an EV and offers incredible maneuverability.
However, performances like these combined with the stunning appearance and legendary heritage are likely to have a hefty price tag. Although the manufacturer hasn’t defined the actual number yet, the estimated price tag for this hand-crafted jewel is around $530.000. Despite this, there is no doubt that the 20 units produced will be finding buyers with ease. After all, the GT Electric is a true one-of-a-kind Alfa Romeo.
Last Words
Totem Automobili and their GT Electric clearly show that classic heritage and modern technology can work in unison. By fitting an iconic car from the past with an innovative electric drivetrain, they created a stunning vehicle perfectly suited for the future. Besides the astonishing appearance, it also offers superb performance while being reliable and a lot easier to maintain than a classic Alfa.
For more details, check out Totem Automobili’s website.
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