Brabus Tesla wired for sound

German tuning firm Brabus is best known for taking fast Mercs and making them even faster. AMG too soft for you? A Brabus is the next step.

But big-engined Mercedes flagships generally aren't very eco friendly, so Brabus has decided to look into the future and turn its hand to the Tesla Roadster. Tesla's electric supercar is probably the fastest way of getting from A to B without emitting any CO₂, but for those who think its Lotus Europa underpinnings are a bit too obvious, this Brabus could be the answer.

Unfortunately, Brabus hasn't made any mechanical changes to the Tesla, but the outcome is fascinating nonetheless. Brabus Zero Emission - the new company set up by the tuner to cater for the growing number of electric cars - has made a number of interior and exterior changes, as well as upgrading the wheels and tyres, all aimed at adding visual and dynamic flair to the green supercar.

So, a set of massive 19-inch alloy wheels fill the arches, some neon blue 'Brabus' badges go into the scuff plates and neon blue under-lighting glows on the road below. There's a new body kit, some Alcantara trim and the option of a leather floor. Most unusual, however, is the inclusion of a speaker system that mimics the sound of a V8 engine - or any other engine you want to hear - so now those disheartened by the lack of a proper supercar soundtrack can have their cake and eat it.

The Brabus Tesla Roadster makes its debut at Germany's ESSEN Motor Show later this month.

Mark Nichol