The automobile was photographed by paparazzi at what looks to be a promotional shoot for the vehicle just a few hours after Abarth shared the first teaser image of its first electric hot hatch. As soon as inquisitive bystanders gathered, the folks who shot the video covered the car reasonably quickly, but not quickly enough, as we can now see the entire first electric Abarth. As you can see, the bodywork of the Abarth 500 EV is considerably more aggressive than that of its less potent Fiat cousin. First, the front lip contrasts with the lower bumper’s wider air intake.
The Abarth also seems wider, though we can’t be certain about that either. The word “ABARTH” is prominently displayed on the front and sides of the vehicle. There will probably be several customizing options, one of which is those side stickers. Additionally unique are the LEDs that surround the headlights. They travel around completely on the regular 500 EV. The LEDs on the bonnet of the Abarth appear to have been replaced with black strips, giving the vehicle harsher eyes and neatly arched brows.
Additionally, the alloy wheels are significantly bigger, and the tires seem to be nothing more than a thin layer of low-profile rubber. It is to be assumed that it sits much closer to the ground. A lowered sports suspension is a standard feature on even the most basic ICE Abarth.
Little is known about the Abarth EV at this time, but the fundamental design will almost definitely not change. This entails a front-mounted electric motor and a floor-mounted, larger 42 kWh battery. For individuals who don’t require as much range, Fiat has a smaller battery, but we don’t think the Abarth will have it as a viable alternative.
With a 117-horsepower motor installed, the high-output 500e can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in under nine seconds. The standard ICE Abarth has a turbocharged four-pot engine with only 162 horsepower, yet it weighs only 2,282 pounds. It can therefore accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in slightly over seven seconds.
The major issue with the electric Abarth is its power-to-weight ratio. The entry-level ICE Abarth weighs 793 pounds less than the basic Fiat 500e, which has a weight of 3,075 lbs. EVs do give their full amount of power at 1 rpm, but Abarth will need to significantly increase the power to make up for the weight. The positioning of the battery pack will at least guarantee that it performs at least as well as the ICE model in terms of handling.
We would venture to say that Abarth will go for an electric motor with at least 200 horsepower. There isn’t enough area for a dual-motor arrangement, therefore we don’t anticipate one. The car’s limited trunk room will be taken away if another powerplant is mounted on the back axle. Abarth will have to carefully strike a balance between power and range. With a 200-mile range, the 500e standard already has a mediocre range. Anything less than 150 miles is unnecessary and will probably turn away potential clients.
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