Audi GMC Maserati

2024 Electric Maserati GranCabrio Folgore Walkaround

Maserati has unveiled its latest innovation, the GranCabrio Folgore, an electric convertible that complements its existing model, the GranTurismo Folgore. Both models share a common electric drivetrain and several other specifications.

The heart of the GranCabrio Folgore is its advanced drivetrain, which consists of three radial-flux permanent-magnet motors, each paired with a silicon carbide inverter. Positioned with two at the rear and one at the front, these motors can each deliver up to 300 kilowatts. While the theoretical output could reach as high as 900 kilowatts (1,207 horsepower), practical constraints of the battery limit the car’s power. In MaxBoost mode, the output peaks at 818 horsepower (610 kilowatts), and 751 horsepower is available for regular driving.

The battery layout is particularly innovative. It’s a T-shaped lithium-ion pack situated between and just behind the seats, which helps maintain the car’s classic convertible lines—lines that would be disrupted by a large, floor-mounted battery. The battery’s total capacity is 92.5 kilowatt-hours, although only 83 kilowatt-hours are utilized to likely help prolong the life of the battery by managing the charge and discharge levels.

The GranCabrio’s battery also excels in its regenerative braking capabilities, absorbing up to 400 kilowatts in brief spurts. It can be recharged rapidly too; a high-capacity charging station can boost the battery from 20 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes at 270 kilowatts. To accommodate less powerful stations, the car includes an onboard “DC Booster,” converting lower voltages to over 800 volts needed for charging, achieving up to 50 kilowatts with older chargers.

For comparison, vehicles like the GMC Hummer EV use different technologies for managing battery voltages during charging and normal operation.

Moreover, the vehicle comes equipped with paddle shifters that allow drivers to adjust the level of regenerative braking, aiding in extending the car’s range, which is reported to be 278 miles under the European WLTP cycle.

In terms of suspension, the GranCabrio Folgore features a double wishbone setup at the front and a multilink system at the rear. The car doesn’t skimp on luxury either, offering up to 16 speakers in its sound system, seat-mounted heaters to warm passengers’ necks, and a high-quality interior that matches its likely premium pricing. Details on the price and availability at dealerships have not yet been released.