De Tomaso Rowan

Vehicle Overview

The De Tomaso Rowan was an innovative electric-powered concept car designed by a young Giorgetto Giugiaro in 1967 and built by Carrozzeria Ghia. As an early example of electric vehicle design, the Rowan stood out not only for its environmentally friendly propulsion but also for its unique and futuristic styling, making it one of the standout concepts of the era. The Rowan was a supermini, designed to be a compact city car that could accommodate five passengers despite its relatively small size. It was a two-door vehicle, featuring a distinctive left-hand drive configuration. The car’s proportions were sleek, with a design that blended curves and sharp lines to create a modern, aerodynamic shape. Its white-silver exterior was complemented by a vibrant red leather interior, creating a striking contrast that added to its bold aesthetic. Giorgetto Giugiaro, who would go on to become one of the most influential automotive designers of the 20th century, was still in the early stages of his career when he worked on the Rowan. His design for the Rowan exhibited many of the traits that would later define his work, including an emphasis on clean lines, functional beauty, and forward-thinking concepts. While the Rowan was a compact car, it had a spacious and airy interior, maximizing the comfort of its five seats and providing a glimpse of how urban electric vehicles might look in the future. The De Tomaso Rowan, despite being a concept, was ahead of its time. As an electric vehicle from the 1960s, it showcased the potential of electric propulsion long before it became a mainstream focus in the automotive industry. Its design and vision were a testament to Giugiaro’s talent and Ghia’s craftsmanship, making it a memorable example of automotive innovation from the 1960s.