Maserati gives the lowdown on all-electric Gran Turismo Folgore

Maserati has unveiled key technical details for its first all-electric sportscar, revealing an innovative battery layout designed to maintain the iconic car’s low-to-the-ground stance.

The iconic Italian brand first teased the Folgore EV in March, hinting at “cutting-edge technical solutions derived from Formula E,” and promising “superb performance, comfort and elegance, all typical of the Trident.”

Now, Maserati has shared some of the secrets hidden not underneath the bonnet, but under the floor of its first battery-electric sports car.

It means that the Folgore it is the lowest electric vehicle ever, with obvious advantages for agility on the road.

Folgore gets a T-bone battery

In keeping with a “zero compromise” mission to ensure the electrification will not change the DNA of the “masters of Italian audacity”, Maserati has packed in a t-bone-shaped battery.

It has done this, it says, to ensure that the seats of the Folgore are as get-down-low as any Maserati to hit the streets. Instead, the battery is wrapped around them and through the central tunnel. The roof therefore is just 1,353mm high.

In addition to the t-bone battery, the Folgore gets a lightweight body. By combining aluminium and magnesium with high-spec steel, Maserati says it has achieved best-in-class weight levels.

Folgore driving range not revealed

Presumably this will mean better energy efficiency. Although the Folgore’s estimated driving range was not revealed in the latest announcement, Maserati did reveal at 9.25kWh battery capable of outputting a maximum of 560kW power. This drives three 300kW motors, transmitting 760 horsepower to the wheels.

These technical innovations are paired with high-level electrical architecture, cyber-security, infotainment and sound systems. Powering the Folgore’s drivetrain is an 800-volt architecture. This is controlled by a proprietary master controller that Maserati promises will ensure a top driving experience.

Inside there are touchscreen interfaces (although Maserati did not supply any images of this,) while a heads-up display is optional. An immersive Sonus faber 3D sound system including 19 speakers with 1,195W output completes the package.

Maserati has not yet announced pricing. While media reports say that the Gran Turismo will launch in Australia in 2023, The Driven has reached out to the company’s representatives to confirm if the all-electric version will grace our shores.