Abarth Amps Up: Two New Electric 500 Models Spark Excitement
Abarth, that plucky little company with more tradition and pedigree than any other Italian supercar manufacturer, decided last November to throw its hat into the electric ring. And they did it in style, with their first all-electric 500e, which they boldly named the Scorpionissima - a name so extravagant it's like a mix between a scorpion and an opera singer.
The Scorpionissima came with 18” alloy wheels, a glass roof so enormous you'd think you were in a greenhouse, all sorts of fancy ADAS, and enough Alcantara to reupholster the entire Vatican. It was an exclusive affair, with only 1949 units available and initially only to members of the Abarth community. Although, we're not sure if that actually happened, as the Abarth website was about as helpful as a chocolate teapot when it came to ordering one.
Presumably, since the Scorpionissima is sold out, Abarth decided to unveil two new models to its electric lineup - the 500e and the 500e Turismo. Both cars boast the same 155 hp electric motor, the same 42 kWh battery pack, and a 0-100 km/h time of 7 seconds - not too shabby for an electric city car. Despite the extra weight, they promise a fun driving experience thanks to their wider and lower stance.
The new Abarth 500e is the entry-level model, sporting unique 17” alloy wheels and a dark, moody interior with Scorpion-striped sports seats. It also features a 10.25” infotainment screen that's about the size of a small television, and a 7” digital instrument cluster nestled behind the steering wheel.
Meanwhile, the 500e Turismo is the grand poobah of the range, with 18” diamond-cut alloy wheels and an interior that's essentially an Alcantara wonderland. Acid-green Scorpion logos are lasered onto the headrests of the sports seats, as if to say, "I'm an Abarth, and I'm not afraid to show it."
Interestingly, the 500e doesn't come with the Abarth Sound Generator, which either means it's missing out or it's actually better off without it. The 500e Turismo, however, gets the generator as standard, so everyone can "enjoy" that classic Abarth raspy growl.
But what about tunes? The 500e comes with a JBL Premium Audio setup that's so important, it gets its own press release. Seven speakers, an 8-channel 320 W amplifier, and a multitude of settings ensure that every passenger gets a 360-degree immersive experience, regardless of their position, speed of the car, or level of noise.
The sound system was fine-tuned by HARMAN engineers, and the Abarth 500e lineup is now complete, with hatchback or cabrio versions available for each model. While the claimed 265 km range isn't ideal for a cross-country road trip, it's more than enough for a spirited drive down twisty country lanes with the wind in your hair and music as your companion. All that's left now is the price - because, as we all know, dreams don't come cheap.
