Maserati’s ambitious foray into the all-electric future has encountered an unexpected setback. The renowned Italian automaker has officially canceled the eagerly awaited MC20 Folgore, the electric variant of its acclaimed MC20 supercar. Announced with great fanfare in 2020 as a key pillar in Maserati’s push towards an all-electric future, the MC20 Folgore was slated to feature cutting-edge technology, with three electric motors delivering an impressive 700 horsepower. However, after years of development, Maserati has now confirmed that the car will not be entering production due to insufficient market demand.
A Disappointing Cancellation for Maserati’s EV Ambitions
This cancellation is a significant development for the brand, which had envisioned the MC20 Folgore as the crown jewel in its electric lineup. Initially, Maserati had promised that the Folgore would debut this year, aligning with its broader goal of transitioning its entire lineup to electric power by 2030. Maserati’s electric future had already included the GranTurismo Folgore, an all-electric grand tourer, the Grecale Folgore SUV, and the GranCabrio Folgore convertible. These vehicles, alongside the MC20 Folgore, were touted as the marque’s “new electric dimension,” signaling a bold new era for the luxury carmaker.
The Market’s Reluctance to Embrace Electric Supercars
Despite these ambitions, Maserati’s plans have hit a snag. A statement released by the company attributed the cancellation to a lack of commercial interest in the MC20 Folgore. According to Maserati, market studies revealed that the supercar segment, especially buyers of the MC20, still prefers high-performance internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. Maserati’s research indicated that these customers were not yet ready to make the leap to fully electric vehicles, despite the growing global interest in EVs.
Refocusing on the Internal Combustion Engine MC20
While the cancellation of the MC20 Folgore marks a major pivot, it doesn’t signal the end of Maserati’s electrification efforts. The automaker remains committed to enhancing its internal combustion engine-powered MC20, which already boasts 621 horsepower from its 3.0-liter V-6 engine. Maserati plans to refresh this model, possibly adding a few more horsepower, as seen in the high-performance GT2 Stradale variant.
What This Means for Maserati’s Future Electric Plans
However, the shift away from the MC20 Folgore raises questions about the future of other electric models within Maserati’s lineup. The cancellation could spell trouble for the anticipated electric version of the Levante SUV, and further complicates the brand’s goal of electrifying its entire portfolio by 2028.
Stellantis’ Financial Woes and Slow EV Sales in Key Markets
This unexpected turn of events also follows some financial turbulence within Maserati’s parent company, Stellantis. Earlier this year, Stellantis took a significant $1.6 billion write-off related to Maserati’s electric development. The slower-than-expected sales performance in key markets like China also underscores the challenges Maserati is facing as it navigates the complexities of the rapidly evolving EV market.
Looking Ahead: Maserati’s Adaptation to Changing Markets
For now, Maserati is doubling down on its core strengths, focusing on refining its current internal combustion models while continuing to explore hybrid and electrified options. The cancellation of the MC20 Folgore is a reminder that even luxury brands with storied histories must remain adaptable in the face of shifting consumer preferences and market realities. Maserati’s journey into the electric future may have hit a bump, but its legacy of innovation is far from over.
Written By: Lydia Kelly
Published: 18th March 2025