Maserati’s Electrification Journey: New SUVs and Future Plans
Maserati is currently undergoing a significant transformation, seeking to invigorate the brand with a new range of electrified vehicles. Recently, key details about a second SUV offering and the brand’s future strategy have been revealed.
Upcoming SUV Models
The anticipated SUV is set to slot beneath the larger Levante and is expected to debut soon. Maserati is investing €800 million (approximately $866 million) in a new production line for this SUV at FCA’s Cassino plant in Italy, known for its production of Alfa Romeo models. Construction of the new line is scheduled to begin at the end of the first quarter of 2020, with the first pre-production versions anticipated to be released by 2021.
Electrification Initiatives
Maserati’s electrification efforts are set to commence this year with the unveiling of the Ghibli hybrid. In 2021, production will begin on the new GranTurismo and GranCabrio, marking the brand’s first foray into all-electric powertrains. These exciting new vehicles will be manufactured at Italy’s Mirafiori plant, which will be the central hub for Maserati’s electrified offerings. Additionally, a “super sports car” will emerge this year from the Modena factory, where retooling is taking place to accommodate electric versions of these cars. Maserati previously showcased an electric sports car concept known as the Alfieri in 2014, and a variant of this vehicle is expected to be available with either a plug-in hybrid or fully electric powertrain.
Future Product Overhaul
According to previous reports, Maserati aims to completely revamp its product lineup by 2023. An electric version of the Levante is expected to compete against Tesla’s Model X, and a plug-in hybrid variation will also be introduced. Furthermore, the Quattroporte is slated for electrification. Although electrification is a core component of Maserati’s strategy, it is important to note that the brand will continue to utilize internal combustion engines.