Maserati MC20 Folgore: The New Electric Era
Maserati, the renowned Italian luxury vehicle manufacturer, is set to electrify the sports car market with its latest offering, the MC20 Folgore. This bold move, marks a significant shift in Maserati’s approach to sports car design, embracing the electrification trend that is sweeping through the automotive industry.
The Maserati MC20 Folgore, which is Italian for “lightning,” is a battery-powered version of the acclaimed Maserati MC20 for sale. First unveiled in 2020, Maserati promised an electric variant by 2022, but due to various reasons, the launch has been pushed to 2025. This delay, while notable, underscores the challenges and complexities involved in creating a high-performance electric sports car.
Design-wise, the MC20 Folgore is expected to closely resemble its gas-powered counterpart, with a few necessary alterations. These changes are likely to include the addition of a charging port and the absence of an exhaust system. Maserati may also subtly tweak the car’s aerodynamics to enhance efficiency without compromising on its sleek, sporty aesthetics.
The heart of the MC20 Folgore lies in its advanced powertrain. In an interview with Top Gear in 2020, Luigi Sciarretta, the head of MC20 development, revealed that the electric version would feature a tri-motor setup, capable of producing over 700 horsepower. This represents a significant power boost compared to the 621 horsepower generated by the MC20’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter Nettuno V-6 engine. Moreover, this electric powertrain is designed to propel the MC20 Folgore from zero to 62 mph in a blistering two seconds, offering an exhilarating driving experience that rivals, and perhaps exceeds, its gasoline-fueled counterpart.
Despite its increased power, the electric powertrain and battery are expected to add only around 220 pounds to the vehicle’s weight. This minimal weight gain is crucial in maintaining the agility and performance that Maserati sports cars are known for.
The MC20 Folgore is part of a broader electrification strategy by Maserati. Owned by Stellantis, the brand has also announced the upcoming release of the GranCabrio Folgore and has plans for a new crossover EV model in 2027, followed by an electric version of the Quattroporte in 2028. Maserati’s current lineup includes two EVs, the Grecale Folgore and GranTurismo Folgore.
Maserati’s commitment to electrification is part of Stellantis’s “Dare Forward 2030” strategy, aiming for 100 percent of its sales in Europe and 50 percent in the U.S. to be electric vehicles by 2030. This commitment is a testament to Maserati’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and the preservation of Italian craftsmanship in the evolving automotive landscape. With the MC20 Folgore, Maserati is not just adapting to a changing market; it’s leading the charge into a new era of electric sports cars.
