The EV that loves to make noise

Abarth 500e on sale in NZ this month — complete with sound generator

Abarth’s first- ever fully electric car, the 500e, will be launched in New Zealand this month. It’s the performance version of the Fiat 500e hatchback, and of course part of a long tradition of slightly unhinged Abarth 500 models.

Abarth says the move to pureelectric power brings improved weight distribution and superior torque, making this new model “arguably more enjoyable than its petrol- powered equivalent”.

The 42kWh battery is carried over from the standard 500e, but the front- mounted electric motor has been uprated to 114kW/ 235Nm ( standard car 87kW/ 220Nm).

The extra grunt does bring some opportunity cost in terms of range: it’s dropped from 320km to just 253km in the Abarth. Maximum charge rate is also just 85kW, although Abarth says that still allows users to put enough for a daily 40km commute into the car in five minutes.

Abarths are famous for their raucous exhaust noise. The “Abarth Sound Generator” is standard in the new electric model; the company says it reproduces the “sound of an Abarth petrol engine inspired by the famous Record Monza exhaust”.

The limited edition Scorpionissima is priced from $ 76,990, while the standard Abarth 500e is $ 74,990.

Scorpionissima also brings two distinct exterior colours: Acid Green and Poison Blue. Both colours have Abarth decals applied to the side profile of the car.

There are also dedicated 18in diamond- cut titanium grey alloy wheels, an Alcantara interior and racing- style steering wheel. The sport seats with integrated headrest feature Acid Green or Poison Blue double stitching.

The standard Abarth 500e comes in three colours: Antidote White, Venom Black and Adrenaline Red.