Update: After a photo of the new 600e made the rounds on social media this morning, Abarth took charge of the narrative by dropping an official image of the performance EV. However, it seems they couldn’t resist a little touch-up, with a…digitally enhanced background to present the car in a more dramatic fashion.
The first electric SUV to bear the scorpion badge in Europe is showcased in the Scorpionissima launch edition, which will be produced in a limited run of 1,949 units. Abarth also announced that the 237 HP EV will come equipped with an exclusive mechanical limited-slip differential and high-performance tires developed in the Formula E arena, wrapped around 20-inch wheels that promise “excellent driving stability, improved handling, and traction”.
The Italian company has yet to confirm the full launch date but has hinted that more details will be revealed soon.
Abarth has been teasing the upcoming performance version of the Fiat 600e for a while now, but before the full reveal takes place, a photo of the hot SUV has been circulating on social media. The Abarth 600e looks much sportier compared to its Fiat sibling, but that was to be expected, given the Scorpion badge.
The photograph, seemingly taken during a commercial shoot, offers a clear view of the model without any camouflage, leaving little to the imagination. The Abarth-specific bodykit includes a redesigned bumper with black trim highlighting the lower parts. We can also see a fairly large roof spoiler with a glossy black finish. The purple shade of the exterior is also unique to the Abarth, as with the Scorpion badge on the hood.
More: Abarth 600e Electric SUV Spotted Resting Next To Its Fiat Sibling
The photo was uploaded on Instagram by @roadcar19 and @cochespias1. The Abarth 600e looks more like a hot hatch rather than an SUV and will feature a sportier suspension setup that will bring it closer to the ground, alongside an upgraded braking system, to offer a more involving driving experience.
Abarth has already confirmed that the electric powertrain of the 600e will produce 237 hp (240 PS / 177 kW), representing a healthy increase compared to the 154 hp (115 kW/156 PS) of the standard Fiat model. While the company didn’t disclose the number of electric motors, the video teaser hints at an FWD layout, with a limited-slip differential on the front axle. Chances are that the 54 kWh battery of the Fiat 600e will be carried over, meaning that the Abarth version will likely offer a shorter range.
The debut of the Abarth 600e is expected in 2024 and we wouldn’t be surprised if it took place in the coming weeks/months. The SUV will join the 500e hot hatch in Abarth’s future EV-only range, as the ICE-powered 595/695 family will be discontinued soon.