Based on the Ferdinand heavy tank destroyer, the Elefant was designed to overcome the deficiencies and mechanical failures experienced at the Battle of Kursk in 1943. The 89 Ferdinands committed at Kursk claimed to have knocked out over 300 enemy tanks, for the loss of just 13!

Late in 1943 the 50 remaining Ferdinands were recalled and modified with the addition of a ball-mounted MG 4 in the hull front for anti-infantry capability, a commander’s cupola for improved vision and the application of Zimmerit anti-magnetic paste. The frontal armour was thickened and the tracks widened; these changes increased the weight from 65 to 70 tonnes.