Maserati cancels plans for the electric MC20 Folgore, citing weak demand and shifting consumer preferences
Luxury automaker Maserati, a brand under the Stellantis group, has decided to cancel plans for an electric version of its MC20 sports car, citing low anticipated demand. The MC20 Folgore, originally set to debut in 2024, will no longer be produced as the company realigns its strategy in response to market preferences.
According to a Maserati spokesperson, internal market research revealed that the majority of MC20 customers prefer high-performance gasoline engines and are not yet inclined to switch to battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). This insight influenced the brand’s decision to shelve the MC20 Folgore, acknowledging that commercial viability would be a challenge.
The MC20, introduced in 2020, is a 630 HP supercar manufactured in Modena, Italy. With a starting price of approximately 240,000 euros ($262,000), the model is positioned as a high-end sports car catering to a niche market. Despite its premium appeal, Maserati has struggled with overall sales, delivering only 11,300 vehicles last year— a significant drop from 26,600 units in 2023. The brand also reported an adjusted operating loss of 260 million euros ($284 million) in the same period.
Maserati’s decision to halt the electric MC20 comes amid broader uncertainties surrounding its electrification strategy. In a meeting with labor unions last November, Stellantis declined to confirm previously announced electrification plans for the luxury marque, prompting speculation about the brand’s future direction.
While the MC20 Folgore has been scrapped, Maserati continues to offer electric variants of its GranTurismo coupe, GranCabrio convertible, and Grecale SUV. Additionally, the company is expected to launch the GT2 Stradale, a derivative of the MC20, in the first quarter of this year. However, beyond this model, Maserati currently has no confirmed new launches, as Stellantis re-evaluates its business strategy for the brand.
Maserati’s stance contrasts with that of its competitors, who continue to push forward with electrification. Ferrari plans to unveil its first EV in October, Lamborghini is targeting 2029 for its first electric model, and Porsche has been offering EVs since 2019. Despite the shift towards electrification in the high-performance segment, Maserati appears to be taking a more cautious approach, aligning its product lineup with current consumer preferences while reassessing its long-term strategy.
