Alexandre
The universe Abarthsynonymous with Italian sportiness resolutely oriented towards electric models. Since the release of the Abarth 500e and the Abarth 600ethe brand asserted its vision: offer radical versions of existing electric Fiat models. Whereas Fiat prepares a new hybrid version of the 500 for 2025In the early days of Fiat, hopes were high for a potential Abarth version of this model. However, recent statements by Gaetano Thorel, Director of Fiat and Abarth Europe, in an interview with Auto Express lift the veil on this question: there will be no Abarth version of the 500 hybrid.
No compromise with the past
For Abarth, staying true to its DNA is essential. For 75 years, the brand has excelled in the art of transforming Fiat cars into performance machines, particularly with the legendary Fiat 500. And yet, the new Fiat 500 Ibrida will not be playing the game. "The 500 hybrid to be produced at Mirafiori next year uses a micro-hybrid engine, so it's nothing spectacular," says Thorel.
"To make it perform, there's no space to do it [...] Again, it wouldn't be true to Abarth's DNA, so I couldn't do it. Technically, it's not possible.
For Abarth, each transformation is based on a thorough adjustment of the original vehicle, including chassis, suspension and wheels. "It takes time, often two to three years, to create a true Abarth model without compromise," adds Thorel.
The horizon for electric models and SUVs
Despite this decision, Abarth is not turning its back on new models. While Fiat is planning a new range with models such as La Grande PandaThorel suggests thatan Abarth version could be on the cards, although it is still "too early to say more". This version could, in time, be extended to SUVs, widening the field of possibilities for Abarth, as has already been tested in South America with the Abarth Pulse and Fastback models.
The pride of a "Made in Italy" Fiat hybrid
The new Fiat 500 hybrid, produced at Mirafiori, also represents a return to Italy's roots. Thorel proudly emphasizes the importance of this hybrid version, which allows customers to rediscover the mythical Cinquecento while adopting a more environmentally-friendly engine. Abarth's future, meanwhile, seems to be shaped around the 100 % electric models, of which the 500e and 600e are the first ambassadors.
Let's hope that this hybrid version of the 500 will boost sales.
The problem is that the Abarth 500e doesn't sell well, and only offers one engine, whose power is a bit limited.
It gives us hope that the 2 models of the Abarth 600e will work, but it's a shame that hybrid versions of the Abarth 500 and Abarth 600 are not on the drawing board.
It's to be hoped that the 500 Abarth understands that it can't be sold at such a high price, and that it will benefit from higher-density batteries. It's also possible to place the 210 hp M4 engine under the hood to match the Mini Cooper E. At the very least, you have to keep up with the competition.
Even if we adapted a more powerful electric motor, it wouldn't sell any better.
Abarth enthusiasts want to go thermal - and they could!
So my 595C will be my last Abarth :')
In my opinion, the Abarth 600 won't sell any better, since the electric Fiat version isn't very successful at the moment.
As you say, it's a pity that there isn't a thermal-hybrid alternative in the Abarth version. It's possible, but it's a choice made by Stellantis.
Abarth's decision to go all-electric condemns the brand to marginal sales, all the more so as for a budget of almost €50,000 for the most powerful version, the competition's all-electric range is plethoric.
For me, Abarth remains above all a thermal vehicle.
My current vehicle is indeed my last purchase from Abarth.
RIP Abarth my final word for a dying myth...