Maserati cancels plans for the electric MC20 Folgore, citing weak demand and shifting consumer preferences
Maserati, a Stellantis brand, has canceled plans for an electrified version of its MC20 sports car, citing low expected demand. The MC20 Folgore, which was scheduled to launch in 2024, will no longer be produced as the firm realigns its strategy in response to consumer preferences.
According to a Maserati spokeswoman, internal market research found that the majority of MC20 clients favor high-performance gasoline engines and are not currently interested in switching to battery-electric vehicles (BEV). This knowledge informed the brand's decision to discontinue the MC20 Folgore, recognizing that economic viability would be difficult.
The MC20, debuted in 2020, is a 630 horsepower supercar built in Modena, Italy. With a starting price of around 240,000 euros ($262,000), the model is positioned as a high-end sports car for a niche market. Despite its premium appeal, Maserati has struggled with overall sales, producing only 11,300 vehicles last year, a considerable decrease from 26,600 in 2023. The brand also reported an adjusted operating loss of 260 million euros ($284 million) for the same period.
Maserati's decision to cease production of the electric MC20 comes while the company's electrification strategy remains unknown. In a November meeting with labor unions, Stellantis declined to confirm previously disclosed electrification intentions for the luxury brand, sparking uncertainty about the business's future direction.
While the MC20 Folgore was discontinued, Maserati continues to offer electrified versions of its GranTurismo coupe, GranCabrio convertible, and Grecale SUV. In addition, the business plans to debut the GT2 Stradale, a derivation of the MC20, in the first quarter of this year. Aside from this model, Maserati has no definite new launches as Stellantis re-evaluates the brand's business plan.
