Abarth, the Italian brand known for its sporty and performance-oriented cars, has unveiled its latest creation: the Abarth 600e, a 240-horsepower electric crossover that claims to be the most powerful Abarth ever. The new model, which is expected to arrive in 2025, is based on the Fiat 600e but features many enhancements and modifications to make it worthy of the Scorpion badge.
Abarth 600e: What’s new?
The Abarth 600e is not just a Fiat 600e with a different badge and some cosmetic changes. It is a completely different beast, with a unique chassis developed by Stellantis’ motorsport division, a mechanical limited-slip differential for improved traction and handling, a high-performance braking system with larger discs and calipers, and Formula E-derived tires for maximum grip and efficiency.
The Abarth 600e also boasts a 237bhp electric motor, which is 85bhp more than the Abarth 500e and 50bhp more than the Fiat 600e. This makes it the most powerful Abarth ever, surpassing the previous record holder, the Abarth 695 Biposto Record, which had 187bhp from a 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine.
According to the brand, the Abarth 600e can sprint from 0 to 60mph in less than 6 seconds and has a top speed of over 130mph. The battery capacity and range have not been disclosed yet, but Abarth says it has focused on mid-range performance rather than outright acceleration and that the car will offer a balanced compromise between power and efficiency.
Abarth 600e: How does it look?
The Abarth 600e is not shy about its sporty credentials. It has a muscular and aggressive design, with a low and wide stance, large wheels, a rear spoiler, a front splitter, and a rear diffuser. The car also features the signature Abarth colors of black, white, and red, with the Scorpion logo prominently displayed on the front grille, the rear hatch, and the wheel caps.
The launch edition of the Abarth 600e called the Scorpionissima, will be available in a limited number of 1,949 units to celebrate the year of the brand’s foundation. The Scorpionissima will have an exclusive color called Hypnotic Purple, inspired by the “post-puncture hypnotic effect”, according to Abarth. The Scorpionissima will also come with an authenticity certificate and a special badge.
The interior of the Abarth 600e has not been revealed yet, but it is expected to have a sporty and high-tech feel, with bucket seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, and a touchscreen infotainment system. The car will also offer a Scorpion Track driving mode, which will enhance the car’s dynamics and performance on the track.
Abarth 600e: Why does it matter?
The Abarth 600e is a bold and ambitious move by the Italian brand, which aims to reinvent itself in the era of electrification and appeal to a new generation of customers looking for fun, performance, and sustainability. The Abarth 600e is also a statement of intent by Stellantis, the parent company of Abarth and Fiat, which plans to launch more than 40 electric models by 2025 across its 14 brands.
The Abarth 600e is not the brand's first electric model, as it follows the Abarth 500e, launched in 2023. However, the Abarth 600e is a much more significant and innovative product, as it combines the crossover segment's popularity and practicality with the brand's heritage and passion. The Abarth 600e is also a rare example of an electric performance crossover, as most of the competitors in this niche are either petrol or hybrid.
The Abarth 600e is expected to be a hit among the brand's fans, who will appreciate its power, handling, and style. It will also attract new customers, who will be intrigued by its electric technology, crossover versatility, and exclusive appeal. The Abarth 600e is a game-changer for the brand and a challenge for its rivals. It is the most powerful Scorpion ever, ready to sting.
