Maserati and Alfa Romeo may collaborate on the development of a plug-in hybrid vehicle.
Maserati Shifts Strategy, Embraces Electrification with Alfa Romeo Partnership
Maserati, the luxury Italian automaker, is set to transform its future lineup by leveraging technology from its sister brand Alfa Romeo. According to reports, Maserati's upcoming models, including the Quattroporte sedan and Levante SUV, will be based on Alfa Romeo's STLA Large platform, which supports both hybrid and electric drivetrains.
Maserati's CEO, Santo Ficili, has indicated that the next Quattroporte and Levante could share the STLA Large architecture used for Alfa Romeo’s upcoming Giulia and Stelvio models. This strategic move is expected to accelerate development and reduce costs for Maserati while providing customers with a broader range of propulsion systems.
The STLA Large platform can accommodate internal combustion engines (ICE), hybrids, and full electric powertrains, aligning with Maserati’s gradual move towards electrification but maintaining multiple options during the transition period. Maserati is taking a cautious approach towards full electrification, recognizing customer preferences and market timing, thus planning to offer mild hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and electric powertrains on new models based on the STLA Large platform.
One of the key challenges Maserati faces is the delay in the launch of its first pure electric model. Initially planned for 2022, the new Quattroporte sedan has been postponed to 2028 due to performance concerns. However, the new model is expected to offer a choice between electric and hybrid drives.
Meanwhile, Alfa Romeo is moving forward with its plans. The new Alfa Romeo Giulia, expected in 2026, will offer both electric and combustion engine options. The next Maserati Stelvio SUV may be based on the new Alfa Romeo Stelvio, marking the second generation of the Levante.
In a recent statement, Ficili emphasized the need to communicate with customers due to confusion about PHEV, BEV, and mild hybrid systems. He also mentioned that Maserati must offer "all possibilities" to its customers. The company is reportedly considering developing its first plug-in hybrid drive.
Despite these developments, Maserati's future remains uncertain. The automaker faced a significant setback in 2024 when global sales halved, falling from 26,600 to 11,300 vehicles, resulting in an operating loss of 260 million euros. The challenges of electrification, coupled with the delay in the launch of the new Quattroporte, have raised concerns about Maserati's long-term prospects.
However, with the strategic partnership with Alfa Romeo and a focus on offering a diverse range of powertrains, Maserati is positioning itself for a potential comeback in the luxury electric vehicle market.
- Maserati's upcoming Quattroporte sedan and Levante SUV models will be based on Alfa Romeo's STLA Large platform, which supports both electric and conventional drivetrains from the transportation industry.
- The automotive industry is experiencing a shift towards electrification, and Maserati recognizes this trend, planning to offer electric, hybrid, and mild hybrid powertrains as part of its lifestyle strategy for its vehicles.
- Alfa Romeo is also embracing electrification, with its new Giulia (expected in 2026) offering both electric and combustion engine options in the finance sector.
- Maserati faces challenges in its evolution towards full electrification, notably the delay in the launch of its first pure electric model and concerns about customer preferences for various powertrain options in the automotive sector.
