Abarth's new electric hot hatch detailed for Australia

25 May 2023

The new Abarth 500e, the hot version of the electric Fiat 500e, will be offered in a single variant when it arrives in Australia later this year.Only the hatchback body style (no cabriolet) in a single Turismo trim will be offered, though Abarth will launch the model with a limited run of the special edition Scorpionissima.The company has yet to release pricing.The special edition Scorpionissima builds on the Turismo with unique decals and a digital certificate of authenticity.A total of 1949 Scorpionissimas will be built, with 219 coming to Australia.The 500e uses a single front-mounted electric motor producing 113.7kW of power and 235Nm of torque, good for a 0-100km/h time of 7.0 seconds.It uses a 42kWh battery, with 252km of range on the WLTP cycle. It supports DC fast charging at up to 85kW, reaching 80 per cent capacity in 35 minutes.Abarth says the electric architecture offers improved weight distribution and a longer wheelbase than the petrol model.The company also says there’s 50 per cent faster acceleration from 20 to 40km/h and better performance not only in highway overtaking, but also on hairpin bends.There are three drive modes: Turismo, Scorpion Street, and Scorpion Track. A one-pedal drive driving feature is available on all bar Scorpion Track.Also present on the 500e is the Abarth Sound Generator, which the company says adds a “signature and unmistakable roar” that reproduces the sound of an Abarth petrol engine.