Maserati backs down: The electric MC20 will never see the light of day!
This announcement is bound to stir up the supercar world: Maserati has officially scrapped the electric version of its MC20. Initially planned under the MC20 Folgore name, this fully electric model was meant to accompany the gasoline-powered version equipped with the Nettuno V6. However, due to weak demand for such models and increasing financial struggles, the Trident brand has decided to pull the plug. A strategic decision that speaks volumes about the future of electrification in the high-performance sports car segment.
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Electric supercars don’t inspire enthusiasm
On paper, an electric Maserati MC20 wasn’t a bad idea. The Italian brand aimed to capitalize on the EV trend, already present in its lineup with the GranTurismo Folgore and Grecale Folgore. However, while SUVs may attract customers looking for lower emissions, electric supercars struggle to gain traction. Even groundbreaking models like the Rimac Nevera have had trouble finding buyers despite their record-breaking performance. Why? Because supercars aren’t just about numbers. The driving experience, the roar of the engine, gear shifts, and even the smell of gasoline are all integral to what makes these cars special. Even the most advanced battery-powered system will never replace these elements that define the essence of an exotic sports car. Porsche and Aston Martinhave already recognized this, slowing down their transition to full electrification for their most exclusive models. Now, Maserati has followed suit.
Maserati is in turmoil
This cancellation is also a reflection of Maserati’s financial struggles. The brand’s sales plummeted by 57% in 2024, a concerning figure for a manufacturer that already sells far fewer cars than Ferrari or Lamborghini, despite having a broader lineup. Even the Grecale SUV, expected to be a best-seller, has failed to meet expectations. As a result, Stellantis, Maserati’s parent company, recently canceled a $1.38 billion investment meant to revitalize the brand. And when money runs short, tough decisions have to be made. The electric version of the MC20, which required expensive development with no guarantee of success, became an easy target for cost-cutting. A logical move, but one that raises even more questions about Maserati’s long-term future.
Sticking to combustion—but for how long?
By scrapping the electric MC20, Maserati is sending a clear message: EVs will have to wait. For now, the brand will keep its Nettuno V6, already powering the MC20, select GranTurismo versions, and the Grecale SUV. But is this a long-term solution? Europe and other key markets continue to push for cleaner powertrains, and if sales don’t rebound, Maserati could find itself in serious trouble within the next few years. Some analysts have even speculated that Stellantis might sell off Maserati due to lack of profitability. In the past, Ferrari rescued Maserati in the 1990s, but today, the two brands no longer share any technology, and Ferrari has shown no interest in a buyout. Maserati will have to find a way forward—fast.
A broader industry trend?
The MC20 Folgore’s failure highlights a larger issue: electric supercars are struggling to attract enthusiasts. While EV technology works well for SUVs and sedans, the high-performance sports car market remains deeply rooted in mechanical traditions. Maserati, like other brands, has realized that driving sensations still matter most to its customers.
This article explores Maserati’s decision to abandon the MC20 Folgore, a move that reflects the challenges electric supercars face. Between low demand, financial instability, and a customer base still loyal to internal combustion, the Trident brand is playing it safe. But will that be enough to secure its future?
Images: © Maserati
