The new Abarth 500e is already among us. The first electric car from the scorpion firm, conceived as the sports brother of the successful FIAT 500e, is presented as a compendium of design, performance, and fun in a small bottle, all seasoned with a 100% electric drivetrain but not without the spiciness.
Our protagonist stands out at first glance from other 500e thanks to a new aesthetic kit. The classic mustache with the “500” logo disappears on the front, giving way to the brand name in a large format. Above it is the new Abarth emblem. The bumpers, of a specific design, have the air intakes painted in the same color as the rest of the body.
The set is completed by the full LED headlights, the side skirts, and the 18-inch wheels with a turbine-type design. As is the norm in the Italian house, the car will be available with various customization packs. In addition, customers will be able to choose between two bodies: the three-door saloon and the Cabrio canvas-top convertible.
Inside, the leading role is taken by the 7-inch digital instrumentation and the 10.25-inch touch screen in landscape format, which is associated with an infotainment system with a browser and digital services. It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and may have a JBL sound system. Of course, we cannot fail to mention the dashboard covered in fabric and the sports seats with integrated headrests.
The Abarth 500e is much faster than the previous thermal Abarth 695
As it could not be otherwise in a latest-generation car, the safety equipment is extensive: recognition of traffic signs, autonomous emergency braking with recognition of pedestrians and cyclists, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistant, alert driver assistance, blind spot detector, e-Call emergency call assistant…
Its 154 hp (113 kW) and 235 Nm engine is associated with the same 42 kWh pack that we can find in the FIAT 500e. However, in this case, it is accompanied by a sound generator that promises to offer passengers an immersive and highly emotional experience. This system can be activated or deactivated with the car stationary.
The Abarth 500e can complete 0-100 km/h in 7 seconds. Its range is still a mystery, although it is most likely that it will be around 300 km WLTP, a figure that is more than enough for an urban segment A, although perhaps somewhat fair for those who wish to exploit its dynamic qualities in twisty sections or on a circuit.
The car will offer three driving modes: Touring, Scorpion Street, and Scorpion Track. As for the load, it will be able to reach peaks of 85 kW in direct current (0-80% in 35 minutes). Its arrival at dealerships is scheduled for the first half of 2023. As the launch date approaches, interesting data such as its range or range rates will be revealed, although customers can already reserve the special launch edition Abarth 500e Scorpionissima.
