Maserati unveils its first electric car

Maserati has revealed the new GranTurismo which can either be had with a V6 motor, or, for the first time in a Maserati, a fully-electric battery-powered drivetrain.

The electric “Folgore” system consists of an 800-volt foundation with three electric motors, which is based on expertise derived from Formula E.

“The new GranTurismo is enabling Maserati to solve the impossible equation of combining sports performance with comfort suitable for long distances, both with powerful internal combustion engines and with the most innovative 100% electric solutions,” said the company.

Electric performance

The new GranTurismo Folgore is equipped with a 92.5kWh lithium-ion battery that drives three “permanent magnet motors” resulting in a total system output of 560kW.

The battery is built in a “T-Bone” shape ensuring that no modules are placed under the seats, thereby lowering the vehicle’s hip-point and keeping the roofline at a low 1,353mm.

The electrical system is capable of sending messages to the car’s brain in as little as 2 milliseconds, and it also comes with “level 5 cyber-security” and software-over-the-air features.

Those who aren’t ready to go all-electric will be glad to know that the new GranTurismo can still be had in two petrol-powered V6 specifications.

The base Modena trim sees a 3.0-litre, twin-turbocharged motor generating 365kW, whereas the range-topping Trofeo puts out 410kW using the same setup.

The passenger compartment of the new coupe also sees a host of updates comprising the Maserati Intelligent Assist (MIA) multimedia system which incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and plays through a 14-speaker sound system as standard.

Also new is the Vehicle Domain Control Module master controller, a “100% Maserati project consisting of the software that provides 360° control of all the most important car systems, for the best driving experience in all conditions,” said the company.

At launch, the GranTurismo will be available in Modena, Trofeo, and Folgore trims, as well as the PrimaSerie 75th Anniversary Launch Edition, a limited-edition specification with model-exclusive content dedicated to the car’s recent 75th anniversary.