Editor’s Note: This story has been updated with additional information.
Maserati is preparing to put one of its most iconic model names on its first EV, which will be a stylish performance coupe.
Monday, Oct. 3, Maserati released photos of its updated GranTurismo line, which will include the EV Folgore edition. The GranTurismo Folgore will have 800-volt technology and has been developed with technical solutions derived from Formula E, with three 300-kW permanent magnet motors.
The GranTurismo’s battery will have a nominal capacity of 92.5 kWh and a discharge capacity of 560 kW, to continuously transmit around 760-horsepower to the wheels.
Maserati is estimating its upcoming EV will do 0-60 mph in 2.6-seconds, which would match the Porsche Taycan Turbo S’s claimed 0-60 mph but still fall short of Telsa Model S Plaid’s 2.0-second claimed 0-60 mph time. It will have a top speed of more than 200 mph.
The classic proportions of the brand’s cars have been maintained, with the long hood and the central body intersected by the four fenders. Conversely, the roof line drops dynamically to emphasize the curve of the pillar that features the iconic Trident logo.
The shape of the battery pack, known as a ‘T-bone,’ forms part of what Maserati calls its “zero compromise” approach and avoids placing the battery modules under the seats, mainly moving them around the central tunnel and therefore considerably lowering the car’s height.
Although Maserati is using the term “zero compromise,” the next-gen GranTurismo appears to be sharing its platform with ICE versions, based on the photos released and the information provided so far.
While Maserati’s news release highlights some EV details, the photos released appear to indicate they are of one of the gasoline versions, given tailpipes are pictured. An on sale date hasn’t been announced but a video by Maserati (see top of post) says the EV’s global premiere will be in 2023.
The gasoline versions of the new coupe will be equipped with two versions of a V-6 Nettuno engine: the Modena, with the 490-hp 3.0-liter V-6 Nettuno Twin Turbo; the high-performance Trofeo version, based on the same engine, but upgraded to a maximum power of 550-hp.
The interior of the GranTurismo’s cabin will have the Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) Multimedia infotainment system, a comfort display that brings together the main functions in an integrated touchscreen interface, a digital clock, and the Heads-up Display (available as an option).
The GranTurismo Folgore EV will also offer what Maserati calls an “all-round sound experience,” thanks to work by engineers at the Maserati Innovation Lab. The sound experience includes an immersive Sonus faber 3-D sound system. Designed and made by Italian craftsmen in sound, the audio system offers two levels of customization, giving it up to 19 speakers and 3-D sound with an output of up to 1,195W, for depth of field.
Maserati’s head of global products, Massimo Capaldi, told Autocar there will also be a convertible edition of the GranTurismo Folgore EV.
Monday’s announcement was limited to a press release and photos, so unanswered questions remain, such as charging speeds and range. However, given the EV has an 800-volt architecture, it’s reasonable to assume peak charging speeds will easily top 200 kW.
