October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsSlow PC?RecommendedPC slow today? Run a repair scan before it gets worseResolve common Windows issues and optimize system performance.Scan NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
CarCodyAdvertise
Service recordThe Garage

How Johnny Cash’s Former Rolls-Royce Became a Tesla-Powered EV

A 1970 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow associated in reporting with Johnny Cash received a bespoke Tesla Model S conversion by Shift EV, including a 75.0-kWh pack and a reported range of about 200 miles.
Entry116 Date Time2 min MechanicCarCody Team

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

A 1970 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow reported to have belonged to Johnny Cash was converted into an electric car by Shift EV, which adapted hardware from a 2016 Tesla Model S. The build kept the Rolls-Royce’s recognizable body and interior presentation while replacing and integrating major vehicle systems. Its range was reported at about 200 miles, but the available reporting does not establish that figure as an independently tested result.

How did Johnny Cash’s Rolls-Royce become a Tesla-powered EV?

Shift EV, a conversion shop in Albany, Oregon, carried out the bespoke project for an owner whose identity has not been disclosed. Car and Driver identifies the donor as a 2016 Tesla Model S with a 75.0-kWh battery pack. Rather than simply fitting an electric motor, the build adapted a broader set of Tesla systems to the Silver Shadow.

Digital Trends reported that the owner first approached Tesla. Shift EV founder Kirk Swaney recalled, “They originally approached Tesla,” and the outlet said Tesla declined because it does not restore cars made by other manufacturers. The owner then commissioned Shift EV to do the conversion.

The car is described in reporting as a former Johnny Cash Rolls-Royce. The accounts cited here do not provide a complete ownership chain, so that provenance should be understood as reported rather than independently established by a documented history.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Lectron NACS to CCS Electric Vehicle Adapter with Interlock - (500A/1,000V) - Compatible with Tesla Superchargers - CCS1 EV Fast Charging with Vortex Plus [Check Automaker for Compatibility] - UL 2252
  • ACCESS TESLA SUPERCHARGERS NATIONWIDE - Unlock 25,000+ V3 and V4 Tesla Superchargers. This NACS to CCS adapter enables non-Tesla EVs with Supercharger access to easily connect to the Tesla fast charging network
  • FIRST UL 2252 CERTIFIED ADAPTER - The Vortex Plus is the first publicly available NACS to CCS adapter certified under UL 2252 by SGS (NRTL). Market-leading safety, thermal and mechanical performance.
  • SECURE INTERLOCK DESIGN - Features a built-in interlock mechanism to help ensure a secure connection during high-voltage DC fast charging. Our SAE J3400 (NACS/Tesla) to CCS adapter is built to last for safe high-speed charging.
  • UP TO 150 MILES IN 15 MINUTES – 500A / 1000V RATED - Lightning-fast charging performance. Charge up to 150 miles in as little as 15 minutes with the Lectron Vortex Plus. Charging rates vary based on the Tesla Supercharger generation and your vehicle’s specifications
  • COMPATIBLE WITH SUPPORTED CCS1 EVs - Our NACS to CCS Adapter is designed exclusively for CCS1 EVs that have Supercharger access through their automaker. Not compatible with Tesla vehicles or AC charging stations. Please refer to the included User Manual for complete operating instructions and compatibility requirements.

What Tesla parts and systems went into the Rolls-Royce?

According to Shift EV’s project account, the Tesla battery pack sits low in the center of the car. The builder also describes Tesla-derived ABS, tire-pressure monitoring, traction and stability control, electric steering, brakes, heating and air conditioning. Car and Driver and The Drive likewise characterize the work as a substantial Tesla-systems conversion, not a motor-only swap.

Digital Trends reports that Tesla wheel hubs and sensors were retained. The shop had to adapt the electric power steering to the Rolls-Royce’s dimensions, illustrating the central challenge: integrating modern donor hardware into a car designed around a different chassis and mechanical layout.

Rank #2
Lectron J1772 to Tesla Adapter 80 Amp (240V) - EV Charging Adapter Compatible with Tesla Model S/3/X/Y/Cybertruck and All Electric Vehicles in the NACS Alliance (Black)
  • VERSATILE CHARGING SOLUTION - Expand your charging options and access any J1772 chargers with the Lectron J1772 to Tesla Adapter
  • WIDE COMPATIBILITY - This adapter is compatible with all Tesla models and EVs in the NACS alliance. It supports Level 1 and Level 2 charging, allowing you access to a broader range of charging locations, whether you’re at home, work, or on the road
  • ROBUST PERFORMANCE - This J1772 to Tesla NACS adapter supports 240V AC and handles up to 80A of current. It has an operating temperature ranging from -22°F to 122°F (-30°C to 50°C), providing reliable charging in any condition
  • PLUG & PLAY DESIGN - Light, compact, and easy to use, this J1772 to Tesla adapter fits easily in your glove box. Simply plug it into any SAE J1772 charger and connect it to your Tesla to start charging
  • BUILT TO LAST - The Lectron J1772 to Tesla adapter features an IP67 weatherproof rating, making it suitable for outdoor use. It has TUV and UL 2251 certifications, ensuring safety for the driver and the EV

The conversion preserved the classic Rolls-Royce’s exterior identity and interior presentation while changing the systems beneath and around them. The result is best understood as a custom restomod: a particular car rebuilt around donor components and vehicle-specific engineering, not a documented off-the-shelf kit for Silver Shadows.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

How far can the electric Rolls-Royce go?

Electrek reported an estimated range of about 200 miles in August 2020. That is a published figure, not a verified test result in the sources available here: they do not specify a test route, conditions, or an independent measurement. It should therefore be treated as reported range rather than a guaranteed real-world distance.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Lectron NACS to J1772 EV Charging Adapter - Compatible with Tesla Wall Connectors, Destination Chargers, & Mobile Connectors (80A, 240V) - for J1772 Electric Vehicles - UL 2252 Certified (Black)
  • EXPAND YOUR CHARGING ACCESS – Unlock Tesla / NACS chargers for your J1772 EV. Supports up to 80A and 240V, giving you more charging options at home or on the go
  • COMPATIBILITY – Works with all J1772 EVs and Tesla Destination Chargers, Wall Connectors, and Mobile Connectors. Note: Not compatible with Tesla Superchargers
  • FASTER, RELIABLE CHARGING – Delivers up to 80 amps for high-speed Level 2 charging. Built to maximize current flow, reduce heat buildup, and improve charging efficiency
  • UL 2252 CERTIFIED & AUTOMAKER-APPROVED – Certified to UL 2252 safety standards and designed to meet automaker specifications, with built-in temperature monitoring for safe, high-performance charging
  • WEATHER-RESISTANT & DURABLE – Built to perform indoors or outdoors with IP67 protection against dust and water. Reinforced housing ensures long-lasting reliability. Please refer to the included User Manual for complete operating instructions and compatibility requirements.
Rank #4
Sale
Lectron Tesla NACS Level 2 EV Charger, UL2594 Certified (ETL Listed), 48A 240V Nexus EV Charging Station, 23ft Cable & Tesla Holder, Hardwired ONLY, Compatible with Tesla Model S/3/X/Y & NACS (J3400)
  • FAST LEVEL 2 CHARGING UP TO 46 MILES PER HOUR – Delivers up to 48 amps at 240V (11.5 kW) for up to 46 miles of range per hour. Charge overnight and wake up to a full battery in your Tesla or NACS EV
  • COMPATIBLE WITH ALL TESLA & NACS EVs – SAE J3400 NACS connector works seamlessly with Tesla Model S/3/X/Y and Cybertruck plus next-gen EVs with native NACS ports including Chevrolet Bolt (2027), Hyundai Ioniq 5 (2025), Kia EV6 (2025), Lexus RZ (2026), Rivian R2 (2026), Toyota bZ4X (2026), Toyota C-HR (2026)
  • HARDWIRED 48A POWER FOR MAXIMUM SPEED – Designed for a 240V hardwired installation delivering up to 48A continuous output. Requires professional installation. Ideal for fastest possible Level 2 home charging
  • IP66 WEATHERPROOF WITH EXTRA-LONG 23FT CABLE – Built for indoor and outdoor use in rain, snow, heat and dust. Long cable and included charger holster make mounting and cable management easy
  • UL 2594, UL 2231 & UL 2251 SAFETY CERTIFIED (ETL LISTED) – Independently tested for automotive-grade charging safety covering shock protection, cable integrity and system reliability. Built-in protection against overheating, overcurrent, voltage faults and ground faults. Energy Star and FCC certified
Rank #3
Tesla Supercharger Adapter, NACS to CCS Adapter, Fast Charge Your CCS1 EV
  • NACS to CCS Adapter: This NACS to CCS1 adapter supports unlocking more than 15,000 Tesla Supercharger ports (Only V3, NOT for V1/V2/V4), a great charging solution for fast charging in more locations. This Tesla Supercharger adapter makes it easy to connect non-Tesla electric vehicles to the Tesla fast charging network. (NOTE: ONLY works with Tesla V3 Superchargers - will NOT function with ANY other chargers, including: home chargers, wall connectors, destination chargers, mobile connectors, etc.)
  • Use the Tesla app and your EV's app to find compatible V3 Superchargers before you go. Non-Tesla CCS1 EVs can use high-speed V3 Superchargers now. Specifically designed for select electric vehicles including Ford, Rivian, General Motors, Volvo, Polestar, Nissan, Lucid, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Genesis, Kia, Honda, Acura, JLR, Audi, Porsche, Toyota, Volkswagen (VW) , Subaru and BMW. Other brands are unsupported. NOTE: NOT fit for Ford plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), the Ford Focus Electric Model Year (MY) 2012-2016 and Chevy Spark EV 2013-2016, Ford Mustang Mach-E, 2015-2019 Kia Soul EVs, etc.
  • Wait Less, Charge Fast: This Tesla NACS to CCS1 adapter maximum rating of our adapter is 500A/1000V DC 500KW. 150 miles can be charged in 15 minutes. NACS DC adapter Tesla supercharger supports Tesla charging rates up to 500KW, with high charging rate, high efficiency and safety, it ensures that your electric vehicle is charged quickly at Tesla DC charging stations. Make the most of your travel time with an adapter that supports your lifestyle and keeps you moving forward
  • Our Tesla to CCS1 adapter boasts an impressive 500A and 1000V DC rating, providing you with lightning-fast charging speeds. Made of high quality pure copper with silver plating as the conductor and UL94 V0 compliant glass fiber-containing PC as the case. IP55 waterproof rating and high flame retardancy, the Tesla plug adapter can withstand all weather conditions, is fireproof and extremely durable
  • SAFETY FIRST: Our Tesla Supercharger Adapter features a temperature kill switch that automatically stops charging if the NACS to CCS Adapter reaches 194°F (90°C), preventing any potential overheating issues. Additionally, to ensures a secure and safe connection with every charge, we have increased the tightness, so it takes more effort to plug and unplug the adapter. NOTE: PHEV and Versions released before 2016 do not support DC fast charging, please check with the manufacturer for DC fast charging support before purchasing this adapter

What is not known about the build?

  • Conversion cost: The cited reporting does not state what the owner paid.
  • Current status: The sources do not establish the car’s present owner, location, or condition.
  • Full provenance: The coverage identifies the Rolls-Royce as formerly owned by Cash but does not document every transfer in its ownership history.
  • Independent performance results: No controlled range test or other independent performance measurement is provided for this individual car.

Sources

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

More from the Garage

  1. Entry001Date03 OCT 26Time2 min6 Classic Pony Cars Besides the Ford MustangSection: Blog
  2. Entry002Date09 OCT 26Time3 minWhich Brake Pad Should You Buy From RockAuto or Elsewhere?Section: Blog
  3. Entry003Date09 OCT 26Time5 minThe Pros and Cons of Touchless Car Wash SystemsSection: Blog

Thanks for visiting Carcody

Carcody.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.co

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.