Abarth 500e debuts as brand’s first EV hot hatch

Abarth 500e debuts as brand’s first EV hot hatch 

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As it pushes towards a pure-electric future, Abarth has ventured into the EV fold with its first-ever 500e. 

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Unlike its Fiat 500 ICE-powered counterpart, the Abarth 500e boasts enhanced weight distribution, instant torque, plus a wider wheelbase, courtesy of its electric architecture. 

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Off the bat, the 500e employs a 42 kWh battery pack coupled to a front-mounted e-motor that produces 114 kW of power and 220 Nm of torque. It blisters silently from 0-100 km/h in 7 seconds, and by comparison, it was over a second quicker than the 695 model at the Misto Alfa Balocco’s track. 

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The new Abarth 500e features three exclusive driving modes; Turismo, Scorpion Street and Scorpion Track, each with a distinct driving experience. Getting the 500e recharged can be done through an 85 kW fast-charger which adds about 40 km in 5 minutes or 80% of capacity in just over 30 minutes from empty. Those who want to enjoy charging the 500e at home can get an easyWallbox installed. 

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Inside, the 500e is fitted with heated Alcantara-wrapped front seats with double stitching and an Abarth logo in an Acid Green shade on the integrated headrests and the steering wheel. A 10.25” infotainment touchscreen system accepts Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone pairing and a 7” digital driver’s display that resides in front of the driver. 

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Apart from a wireless smartphone charger, 360-degree camera, JBL sound system and automatic climate control, the 500e comes with a sound generator that can be switched on and off depending on your mood. 

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Outside, the 500e boasts a new dedicated front sporty bumper, rear diffuser inserts, dedicated alloy wheels, rear spoiler, new Titanium Grey mirror caps, full LED front lighting with a new Abarth signature, front and rear disk brakes, new front and rear Abarth lettering in dark Titanium Grey and a new electrified Scorpion signature logo. 

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Abarth will also launch a fully-equipped limited launch edition that carries the Scorpionissima nameplate, and only 1,949 units will be made, a number that nods to the brand’s birth year. Like the regular Abarth 500e, the limited edition will be available in hatchback and cabriolet variants.