Maserati Quattroporte (carbuzz.com)
Italian Automaker Faces Delays and Reevaluation in EV Plans, According to Reports
Stellantis has allegedly delivered a surprising blow to the development timelines of two anticipated electric vehicles – the Maserati Quattroporte EV and the next-generation Fiat 500e, as reported by Corriere Torino. The automaker reportedly communicated with Italian suppliers, citing the “major transformation” in the automotive industry and urging them to manage costs efficiently. This has raised questions about the viability of the current pre-development form of the Quattroporte Folgore.
The email reportedly requested suppliers to reduce prices and advised freezing the development of components related to the Maserati Quattroporte EV, stating that new programs would be communicated in the coming months. The Fiat 500e, initially slated for a 2027 debut, could now potentially face delays, possibly extending to 2030.
The Fiat 500e, already available in Europe for three years and recently introduced in the US, might face a prolonged lifecycle if the reported delays hold true. Despite this, Stellantis assured suppliers that Maserati production would remain in Italy, emphasizing the brand’s shift towards adopting electric motors for future models.
This development contradicts earlier statements made by Maserati Americas CEO Bill Peffer, who asserted the brand’s flexibility in transitioning to all-electric and outlined a plan that didn’t force an immediate shift. However, the reported email to suppliers indicates a reassessment of the current trajectory.
Amid concerns of potential overlap between Maserati and Alfa Romeo, both under the Stellantis umbrella, the reported halt in development suggests a need for divergence in the development paths of the two brands. Compromises on quality and price due to closely related models could be detrimental, leading to a reassessment of strategy to prevent such overlap.
The industry will be closely watching for further updates as Maserati, known for its luxury and performance heritage, navigates through these reported delays and reevaluates its approach in the evolving landscape of electric mobility.