While Abarth has built its reputation on creating zippy, petrol-powered hot hatches, the Italian performance brand has now embraced electrification with its first battery-powered offering. The Abarth 500e represents a significant shift for the iconic scorpion badge, packing a 113.7 kW (153 hp) electric motor that delivers 235 Nm of instantaneous torque.
I’ve found this powertrain provides enthusiastic acceleration, propelling the compact coupe from standstill to 100 km/h in just 7 seconds—respectable figures for a car in this segment.
The 500e draws energy from a 42 kWh lithium-ion battery (37.3 kWh usable), offering a WLTP-rated range of 264 kilometers. This range, while adequate for urban environments, falls somewhat short of longer-distance requirements. The vehicle’s energy consumption sits at 17.2 kWh/100 km, noticeably higher than the standard Fiat 500e’s 14.4 kWh/100 km—the price of performance, evidently.
Range limitations and higher energy consumption reflect the inevitable compromise between electric performance and efficiency.
Drivers can select from three distinct driving modes: Turismo for everyday city motoring, Scorpion Street for enhanced dynamics, and a third setting optimized for maximum performance. The ride quality is notably stiffer than usual, causing some discomfort when traveling over varied road surfaces. Each progressively sharpens throttle response and power delivery, though these adjustments don’t fundamentally transform the driving experience.
The car’s curb weight of approximately 1,400 kg is substantial for its dimensions, yet the engineering team has managed the weight distribution admirably. The Abarth Sound Generator creates an iconic sound experience that helps preserve the brand’s character despite the absence of a combustion engine.
Braking performance impresses, with a 100-0 km/h stopping distance of just 31 meters. This capability is complemented by a regenerative braking system that recovers energy during deceleration. Owners should be aware that the 500e’s range can drop by up to 25% in winter due to battery efficiency issues in cold weather. The Abarth has proven its performance credentials with a lap time of 2:22.22 at the Balocco circuit and a quarter-mile time of 15.1 seconds.
With British pricing spanning £34,195 to £38,795, the 500e positions itself firmly in premium territory. While purists may lament the absence of a manual gearbox and exhaust note, this electrified Abarth successfully translates much of the brand’s spirited character into the electric age.
The question remains whether traditional hot hatch enthusiasts will embrace this silent performer.
