If you think automakers don’t listen to their customers, I can assure you that’s not the case. In fact, that’s precisely why Maserati has just scrapped plans for an electric version of its legendary MC20, an exotic car that has been turning heads since its debut.
Until recently, the Italian automaker had planned to launch a three-motor electric version with a total output of over 700 horsepower. While that may sound exciting on paper, the reality isn’t quite as thrilling. After evaluating the project, Maserati decided to abandon it.
Lack of Demand
While gasoline-powered exotic cars continue to gain popularity, the same can’t necessarily be said for their electric counterparts. That’s why the Italian automaker reportedly decided to drop the idea of a fully electric MC20. A Maserati spokesperson confirmed this to the renowned magazine TopGear.
Long Live Gasoline
Maserati took a bold gamble with the MC20 by equipping it with a powerful V6 instead of the expected V8. Despite this, the Italian exotic car has been thriving and continues to grow in popularity. In recent years, many automakers in the exotic car segment have made the switch to six-cylinder engines.
The Nettuno V6
Maserati has gone all-in on its new V6, known by the codename Nettuno (Neptune in English). This 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 is inspired by Formula racing engines. The Nettuno engine produces 621 horsepower, allowing the Italian sports car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under 2.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 325 km/h.
The Maserati MC20 comes in three different configurations. First, there’s the classic sports coupe. Then, there’s the convertible version, known as the MC20 Cielo. Finally, for those seeking a more extreme driving experience, there’s the GT2 version, specifically designed for track driving.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
