The Maserati GranTurismo Folgore, an electric vehicle (EV) coupe, is set to receive a convertible sibling called the Maserati GranCabrio Folgore. This new model is expected to create a niche market for luxury electric convertibles in the U.S. when it arrives as a 2025 model in the fourth quarter. Priced at over $200,000, the GranCabrio is anticipated to be the first true luxury electric convertible in the U.S. market, as well as the first electric convertible overall since the discontinuation of models like the Smart Fortwo Electric Drive Cabriolet and Tesla Roadster.
The Maserati GranCabrio, a version of the GranTurismo Folgore with a soft top, features a quick opening and closing mechanism that takes just 14 and 16 seconds respectively, up to speeds of 31 mph. The interior is equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen for infotainment, an 8.8-inch screen for climate controls, and a 12.2-inch digital instrument cluster, offering a luxurious driving experience. Additionally, the GranCabrio includes neck warmers for comfort while driving with the top down, as well as 5.3 cubic feet of trunk space that decreases to 4.0 cubic feet when the top is stowed.
Powering the GranCabrio are three electric motors, one in the front and two in the back, each producing 402 hp for a combined output that is electronically limited to 760 hp. With a high-performance capability estimated at 0-62 mph in 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph, the GranCabrio is expected to provide exceptional driving dynamics. Furthermore, an 800-volt electrical architecture enables fast DC charging speeds, with the ability to go from 20% to 80% charge in just 18 minutes, as claimed by Maserati.
The Maserati GranCabrio Folgore is part of the brand’s strategy to introduce electrified versions of all its models by 2025 and phase out combustion engines by 2030. This follows the launch of the GranTurismo and GranCabrio as the first all-electric offerings from Maserati. The next model slated to receive an electric Folgore version is the Grecale SUV, Maserati’s entry-level model. With these initiatives, Maserati aims to align with global trends towards electric mobility and meet regulatory requirements for emissions reduction.
Despite the technological advancements in EVs, Maserati CEO Carlos Tavares has expressed concerns about losing the emotional connection that traditional combustion engines provide to drivers. It remains to be seen whether Maserati can successfully integrate the right level of emotion and performance into its electric vehicles, or if the brand’s focus on EVs is solely a response to regulatory pressures. The GranCabrio Folgore represents a significant step towards Maserati’s electrification goals, and it will be interesting to see how well it is received in the luxury electric convertible market.
