What’s the deal with the electric Ford GT40?

Bespoke EV architecture, engineered weight distribution, custom battery layout, and zero-emission track weapon. Sound enticing? If so, meet the newest creation of the revolutionary Ford GT40.

A new take on a classic model

If you are a car fanatic, then you might know about the latest reimagining of the classic Ford GT40 created by Everrati, a luxury car company turning old cars into usable, highly lovable electric vehicles. The UK-based company, headed by its CEO Justin Lunny, has taken this latest invention to new heights for automotive lovers all around. To put it simply, it’s the talk of the town and one you should surely keep tabs on.

Fundamentally, what sets Everrati’s version of the iconic GT40 apart is its transformation from running on an old V8 engine to a new and improved electric powertrain. Characterized by a 62.5kWh battery pack, 200-mile range, 800 hp/tonne, instant 800Nm torque, and more, car enthusiasts will find this model both forward-thinking, yet historically significant, all in one.

Car companies unite

Not to mention, this vehicle is built in part by Superformance, a leading manufacturer of the 1960s era focused on the continuation of component sports cars. Together, Everrati and Superformance have formed a strategic partnership to construct the first electrified version of the legendary GT40. Superformance, also one of the world’s largest specialty car production facilities, was founded by CEO Lance Stander in 1994.

“This is the perfect partnership. The sole focus of both Everrati and Superformance is iconic cars and Lance and his team are THE guys when it comes to authorised continuation chassis of some of the most legendary cars in history,” Lunny said. “Marrying these chassis with our advanced EV powertrains and precision engineering will enhance performance while keeping the essence and soul of the original. We aim to create the best electric driver’s cars while, at the same time, future-proofing these true past masters.”

In this exciting collaboration, the two companies started with a prototype chassis, and it was soon ​​adapted from ICE power to advanced electric propulsion. 

“While I will always love a V8-powered vehicle, there is no doubting the ultra-high performance of Everrati’s advanced EV powertrains,” Stander said. “I am genuinely impressed with the lengths to which Everrati goes to maintain the weight distribution and character of the original car. Electrification is the future in so many ways and adds another option for those who love classic sports cars.” 

A brief history

Historically, Ford GT40s have been a staple in the automotive industry, particularly in the field of auto racing. It dates back to the late 1960s and was created by Henry Ford who was interested in racing at Le Mans, a famous sports racing event, at the time. When Ford’s acquisition of the Ferrari fell through, he resorted to the creation of the GT40 for the race.

The first GT40 was initially powered by small-block Ford V-8 engines of 4.2 liters, and then 4.7 liters. After many trial and errors, a final version of the car was known for its low profile, four-wheel disc brakes, a 95-in wheelbase, aerodynamic design, and a ZF five-speed gearbox. Also, with its impressive racing endurance, the sports car changed the game for many racers everywhere.

Keeping the momentous story alive

Though Everatti and Superformance’s approach involves shifting the classic GT40 into an electric version, that does not mean the historic element goes away. In fact, that is the opposite of what the new automobile intends to do.

At its core, the electric GT40 has been crafted to honor the pivotal story of Le Mans. And at the same time, it embraces the future with the enhancements that lie beneath it. Picture a similar framework of the first car to preserve its history, but with a special upgrade on the backend to keep the intention of the motorsport legend alive.

In a progressive era

Overall, don’t be disheartened by the transformation of the classic Ford GT40 being developed by Everrati and Superformance. If anything, this is a positive era for those who have always wanted to pay homage to their beloved sports car. 

Today, the GT40 is moving in a progressive period in time, and it’s one of the only electric vehicles that can legitimately be called a Le Mans icon reborn. Now that’s history at its finest!