Abarth 500e unveiled as electric hot hatch

Things are about to get ‘more Abarth than ever’ as Fiat’s performance brand just unveiled its first fully electric hot hatch, the Abarth 500e.

Based on the Fiat 500e, the electric Abarth introduces a more powerful electric motor, a wider wheelbase, and improves on weight distribution over its more tame variant.

A single electric motor that makes 113kW and 235Nm of torque is fed by the same 42kWh battery found in the Fiat and can hit 100km/h from a standstill in approximately 7 seconds.

Range wasn’t mentioned but the battery can be recharged from 0 to 80 per cent in 35 minutes thanks to an 85kW fast charging system.

One of the things the Italian marque celebrates about the hot hatch is its urban driving ability. Apparently, the Abarth is “the most responsive and exciting Abarth 500 ever in city driving,” as a result of its 50 per cent faster acceleration from 20 to 40km/h than the petrol-powered 695.

Performance also extends to the track too with the brand saying the 500e beats the 695 by over a second on the Misto Alfa test track at Balocco.

Three driving modes are at the driver’s disposal, starting with the Turismo mode which allows for smoother acceleration and lower power. Scorpion Street mode offers “top performance” while maximizing the regenerative braking while Scorpion Track mode gives the car an extra nudge.

Even though its an EV, the Abarth can still express itself through a range of sounds. A “strumming guitar” can be heard when the car goes over 20km/h while an optional sound generating system can replicate the sound of the brand’s petrol-powered models.

In terms of looks, there’s no grille up front as it has instead been replaced with bold “Abarth” lettering while sportier front bumper, side skirts, and rear diffuser help the 500e stand out.

Also helping it stand out is the striking Acid Green paint job and unique 18-inch alloy wheels which can be combined with the option of a three-door hatchback or two-door cabrio.

The “Scorpionissima” launch edition will also be on offer with only 1949 examples being made. All options have been ticked for the model including a 10.24-inch central touchscreen, 7-inch digital driver’s display, Alcantara upholstery, bucket seats, 18-inch diamond cut wheels, unique badging, and more.

Europe will get the Abarth 500e first while the brand plans on offering it to markets like Brazil and Japan. There’s no indication whether the electric hot hatch will make its way to New Zealand just yet.