Maserati to launch new SUV, Tesla-chasing Alfieri
Diesels out, plug-in hybrids in
As part of Fiat Chrysler's latest five-year product plan, Maserati will launch a bevy of new models and drivetrains in order to double to its annual sales.
By expanding its range, the trident-brand has grown sales from 6000 per annum in 2012 to around 50,000 in 2017, and hopes to shift 100,000 yearly by 2022.
The most eye-catching of its new models will the new Alfieri coupe (above) and convertible. Originally shown in 2014 as concept car, the vehicle has had a long and troubled path towards production.
Maserati now says the Alfieri will feature active aerodynamics, and be based on a modular aluminium spaceframe. The coupe and convertible will be available with both plug-in hybrid and pure electric drivetrains.
The EV setup will have three electric motors, all-wheel drive, torque vectoring, and an 800V battery. According Maserati, the new Alfieri will able to race from 0-100km/h in around two seconds.
Tim Kuniskis, head of Maserati, says the reimagined Alfieri is explicitly targeting Tesla.
A version of this EV drivetrain will also be used in the next-generation iterations of the Levante and Quattroporte, both of which will be underpinned by a new modular architecture and are predicted to be in showrooms by 2022. The smaller Ghibli sedan will soldier on with a facelift.
Perhaps more importantly for the company's growth target is a new crossover to slot in underneath the Levante, which will be based "best-in-class lightweight platform", and boast 50/50 front-to-rear weight distribution.
Unlike other models in Maserati's planned 2022 range, the only electrified drivetrain option for this smaller high-rider will be a plug-in hybrid.
Indeed, Maserati will be ditching its diesel engines in favour of plug-in hybrids, with every model line offering at least the option of a PHEV drivetrain. The company also aims to offer Level Three autonomous driving technology in its cars by 2022.