Maserati Contemplates Electric-Hybrid Versions forFuture Quattroporte Models
Maserati is set to revolutionise its flagship sedan, the Quattroporte, with the upcoming seventh-generation model set to utilise the Alfa Romeo platform. The Italian luxury brand is planning to leverage the flexibility of Stellantis's new STLA Large architecture, which supports a variety of powertrains including internal combustion engines, hybrids, electric vehicles, and hydrogen powertrains.
The decision to adopt the Alfa Romeo platform will enable Maserati to introduce a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain in the Quattroporte as it navigates the transition from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) models to full electric vehicles (BEV). Currently, Maserati's existing platforms do not readily accommodate PHEV systems.
The STLA Large platform, which is EV-first but also supports hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, will provide the technical foundation for the new Quattroporte. This move signifies a significant shift in architecture and technology sharing between Maserati and Alfa Romeo.
Maserati's current model line-up includes three types of powertrains: pure-V6 petrol engines, mild-hybrid turbocharged four-cylinder engines, and pure-electric variants. However, the automaker has yet to announce any plans for battery electric vehicles in the context of this announcement.
The synergy between Maserati and Alfa Romeo could also mean that the upcoming Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio, both based on the STLA Large platform, may provide the technical foundation for the new Quattroporte and Levante SUVs respectively.
Maserati's CEO, Santo Ficili, has emphasised the importance of offering "all possibilities" for propulsion, reflecting a transitional phase where PHEV and mild hybrids serve as a bridge before full BEV adoption. Ficili also noted a general confusion among consumers about various electrified options and indicated that the addition of plug-in hybrids and expanded mild-hybrid offerings would bridge the gap during Maserati's transition to full electrification.
The decision to delay the debut of the seventh-generation Quattroporte, originally scheduled for 2023, until 2028 could be a response to ensuring the consistent high-level performance expected from the brand. The delay could also be a result of Stellantis, Maserati's parent company, reassessing Maserati's future, possibly due to declining sales.
The refreshed Levante SUV, which could share the Alfa Stelvio's architecture, could help Maserati move more vehicles, increase profitability, and compete more effectively in the luxury SUV segment against rivals such as Porsche's Cayenne.
Ficili has stated that Maserati aims to clarify and diversify available powertrain choices, and the upcoming Quattroporte and Levante models are expected to reflect this strategy. The automaker is also considering adding plug-in hybrid variants to its model range.
[1] Autocar. (2022). Maserati Quattroporte to use Alfa Romeo's STLA Large platform for plug-in hybrid variant. Retrieved from https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/maserati-quattroporte-to-use-alfa-romeos-stla-large-platform-for-plug-in-hybrid-variant
[2] Car and Driver. (2022). Maserati Quattroporte Plug-In Hybrid to Use Alfa Romeo's STLA Large Platform. Retrieved from https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a37584823/maserati-quattroporte-plug-in-hybrid-alfa-romeo-stla-large-platform/
- Maserati's upcoming seventh-generation Quattroporte, based on the Alfa Romeo platform, will incorporate a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, signifying a move towards electrification.
- The STLA Large platform, which also supports internal combustion engines, hybrids, electric vehicles, and hydrogen powertrains, will enable Maserati to offer a variety of powertrain options in their cars, including electric-vehicles.
- As Maserati transitions from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) models to full electric vehicles (BEV), the decision to adopt the Alfa Romeo platform will allow for the introduction of both PHEV and mild-hybrid systems in their luxury vehicles.
- The synergy between Maserati and Alfa Romeo, particularly in the adoption of the STLA Large platform, could lead to technological advancements in other areas as well, potentially influencing the automaker's future designs in the automotive technology and lifestyle sectors.
