Abarth introduced its first fully electric model that is based on the Fiat 500e featuring a number of performance-focused upgrades. The Abarth 500e wears a distinct bodykit, combined with a sportier chassis setup, a more powerful electric motor, new driving modes, and a “Sound Generator” making it roar like a petrol-powered Abarth. Starting with the powertrain upgrades, the single electric motor produces 153 hp and 235 Nm of torque in the Abarth 500e, which represents an increase of 36 hp and 15 Nm compared to the Fiat 500e. Thanks to the power boost, the hot hatch accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7 seconds, which is a full 2 seconds quicker than the Fiat.
The EV hot hatch has 10 hp less than the ICE-powered 2023 Abarth 595 which will carry on for one last
year before being discontinued. Despite the small difference in power, Abarth
describes the 500e as “faster and more exciting in both urban and suburban driving”
compared to its ICE-powered counterparts thanks to the “improved weight
distribution, better torque, and wider wheelbase”. Interestingly, the press
release didn’t mention anything about the chassis upgrades over the Fiat 500e,
which are expected to include stiffer suspension and quicker steering. However,
the automaker revealed that the EV is over one second quicker around the Misto
Alfa Handling Track at Balocco than the Abarth 695 flagship which hints at a
similar track-focused setup.
The driver of the Abarth 500e has access
to three selectable driving modes. The Turismo reduces power to 134 hp and torque to 220 Nm in favor of efficiency. The Scorpion
Street gives access to full performance while maximizing regenerative braking,
while the Scorpion Track is for maximum attack mode at the expense of the
available range. Speaking of range, the Abarth 500e retains the 42 kWh battery
of its Fiat sibling but benefits from a new 85 kW fast charging system. This
can add around 40 km of range in less than 5 minutes, while a 0-80%
charge is completed in 35 minutes. Abarth didn’t provide us with the range
figure, but it is safe to assume it will be lower than the 321 km of the Fiat 500e. Abarth is not a fan of silent EVs so it gave its new model
distinct sounds. First of all, the Nino Rota melody of the Fiat 500e has been
replaced with a “strumming guitar” sound that plays the first time you go over
20 km/h. Then, there is the optional “Sound Generator” system,
replicating the roar of an Abarth petrol engine. Thankfully, there is an on/off
switch for this rather controversial feature which some Abarth fans will love
and others will find embarrassing.
Visually, the most striking change to the
Abarth 500e compared to the humble Fiat is the redesigned face. It retains the
grille-less look but features Abarth lettering and a deeper bumper with
sporty-looking faux intakes. Moving on to the side, the striking Acid Green
shade, the unique 18-inch alloy wheels, the Abarth graphics, and the side
skirts make sure you won’t mistake this for a Fiat. At the back, changes are
limited to the diffuser insert due to the absence of exhaust pipes. Note that
the Abarth 500e is available in both three-door hatchback and two-door cabrio
bodystyle flavors, with the latter gaining an integrated rear spoiler since the
hatch already had one. For the launch of the Abarth 500e, the company announced
the Scorpionissima edition which is limited to 1,949 units honoring the
founding year of the company.
The Scorpionissima is exclusively
available in either Acid Green or Poison Blue exterior shade, combined with the
standard 18-inch Diamond-Cut Titanium Grey alloy wheels, a fixed glass roof,
and privacy glass at the back. Inside, it comes with Alcantara upholstery for
the dashboard and the sporty bucket seats, Titanium Grey inserts, Acid Green
Scorpion badges, and steel pedals. Furthermore, the standard 10.25-inch
touchscreen for the Uconnect infotainment and the digital instrument cluster
gain new “Performance Pages” graphics that are unique to the Abarth.
The Abarth 500e Scorpionissima Edition is
available for online pre-bookings – exclusively for the Abarth community
members during the first month. Abarth didn’t give specific dates but we expect
the first deliveries of the 500e in 2023. The EV will be initially offered in
Europe but the company plans on exporting it to other markets including Japan
and Brazil. It is not clear whether the pocket rocket will make it to North
America, following the introduction of the US-spec Fiat 500e that has been
confirmed for 2024.
