Italy

Maserati unveils the GranCabrio Folgore, their first all-electric convertible. With tri-motor power, 0-60 mph in under 2.8 seconds, and a range of up to 233 miles, it's a luxury thrill ride. The stunning design and top-of-the-line features impress, but its hefty price tag of $205,000 raises concerns about its competitiveness. Stay tuned to see if the Folgore can electrify the North American market when it launches as a 2025 model this fall.

The prestigious E1 World Championship sets sail for the exquisite Lake Como GP on its electric boat racing calendar. The ongoing season, featuring teams led by icons like Tom Brady and Rafael Nadal, promises thrills as they vie for the championship in Hong Kong. With Lake Como as a new addition for 2024, the stakes are higher in this environmentally conscious racing series promoting sustainability and luxury. Stay tuned as the battle for the first UIM E1 World Champion unfolds!

Ferrari unveils solar-powered e-building for upcoming EV sports car. The new facility, powered by renewable energy, marks Ferrari's pivot towards electrification. Costing $214 million, the e-building boasts 3,000 solar panels and environmentally conscious initiatives. The Italian luxury carmaker plans to launch its first fully electric sports car soon, with a second EV in the works. Ferrari aims for 60% of sales to come from EVs and PHEVs by 2026. Stay tuned for updates on Ferrari's electric future.

Stellantis-backed Leapmotor is gearing up to stun Europe with its latest C16 SUV, set to list on June 28 under $27,600. Boasting advanced 800V architecture, the mid-size electric SUV features a unique 2+2+2 seating layout and a roof mounted Lidar unit. Leapmotor's partnership with Stellantis aims to drive global expansion, especially in Europe. The C16 promises a blend of luxury and functionality, with high-quality interiors and advanced tech features. Stay tuned for its potential international release by early next year.

Stellantis and Mercedes-Benz, in partnership with TotalEnergies, hit the brakes on two EV battery gigafactories in Europe due to sluggish EV sales growth. The joint venture paused construction on facilities in Germany and Italy, reevaluating plans amidst EV market uncertainty. Despite potential shifts to cheaper lithium iron phosphate cells, future output projections remain uncertain for these gigafactories. Mercedes-Benz reaffirms commitment to electrification plans while awaiting further decisions on the project's future.

Fiat surprises by adding a gas engine to the latest 500 lineup, deviating from initial plans for an all-electric model. The hybrid version will roll out in 2026 in Italy, amid a shifting automotive landscape where EV incentives are dwindling. The move raises questions about Fiat's earlier commitment to go all-electric by 2030. Additionally, Stellantis plans to introduce a hybrid Jeep Compass. Will this mark a trend reversal for automakers navigating the evolving market dynamics?

Kia's Senior VP of Design, Karim Habib, spills the beans on the stunning EV3 and upcoming EV9 models, revealing the meticulous process behind Kia's sleek car designs. Focused on electrification and sustainability, Kia's new EV lineup features cutting-edge design elements and eco-friendly materials like mushroom leather. With a nod to iconic off-roaders and a commitment to performance, Kia aims to revolutionize the electric SUV market, starting at an affordable $30,000. Karim Habib's design philosophy: "Continuity is key." Source

Italy's strict branding laws strike again as Fiat Topolino EVs are seized for featuring a tiny emblem resembling the Italian flag. The cars, made in Morocco, sparked a controversy when imported to Italy. Officials claim the emblem violates a law prohibiting products from appearing Italian-made when they're not. Stellantis, Fiat's parent company, complied by removing the stickers. This incident reflects Italy's unwavering stance against counterfeit branding in a whimsical battle of authenticity. Source