Italian luxury car manufacturer Maserati has officially called off its plans for the MC20 Folgore, an all-electric supercar that was set to spearhead the brand's electric vehicle (EV) strategy. The decision comes after market research revealed a lack of interest from potential buyers in this segment. Originally unveiled in 2020, the MC20 Folgore was intended to revolutionize Maserati’s lineup with its cutting-edge design and impressive performance. However, the company now intends to focus on enhancing the internal combustion engine (ICE) version of the MC20 instead.
The MC20 Folgore was designed to be the jewel in Maserati’s crown among its electric offerings. It featured three electric motors capable of delivering a staggering 700 horsepower, positioning it as a top-tier performer in the electric supercar category. The vehicle was part of a broader plan to introduce several electric models, including the GranTurismo Folgore, Grecale Folgore, and GranCabrio Folgore. Despite these ambitious plans, consumer feedback indicated a strong preference for traditional ICE vehicles over battery-powered alternatives. Potential customers showed little enthusiasm for transitioning to electric power, preferring the tried-and-true performance of gasoline engines.
Maserati’s decision to cancel the MC20 Folgore reflects a strategic shift in response to market demands. The automaker will now concentrate on refining the MC20’s ICE variant, which already boasts a formidable 3.0-liter V-6 engine producing 621 horsepower. Plans are underway to further enhance this engine’s performance, potentially adding more power to meet customer expectations. This move underscores Maserati’s commitment to balancing innovation with market realities, ensuring that their products align with consumer preferences.
The cancellation of the MC20 Folgore also signals broader challenges for Maserati’s electrification goals. The company had aimed to transition its entire lineup to electric vehicles by 2028, with a complete shift to BEVs by 2030. However, financial pressures, highlighted by a $1.6 billion write-off by parent company Stellantis, have added complexity to these plans. Moving forward, Maserati is likely to adopt a more cautious approach to EV development while continuing to invest in improving its existing ICE models. This pivot represents a critical juncture for the brand as it adapts to evolving global automotive trends and shifting consumer tastes.
As Maserati navigates this new landscape, the company’s future strategy will involve a careful balance between advancing electric vehicle initiatives and maintaining the appeal of its traditional high-performance cars. By responding to market feedback and adjusting its priorities, Maserati aims to remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic automotive industry.
Tesla is expanding its Supervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) system beyond North America, encountering significant regulatory hurdles in key markets such as the United Kingdom and Europe. While initial deployments have begun in China and Mexico, stringent safety regulations and policy adjustments are complicating the rollout process. The UK’s Department for Transport (DfT) has proposed revised rules that limit the capabilities of autonomous driving systems like Tesla’s FSD, emphasizing highway maneuvers only and requiring drivers to keep hands on the steering wheel. This shift reflects broader concerns about safety and driver behavior. Despite these challenges, Tesla continues to make strides, with early versions of its FSD-related features now available in some regions.
The deployment of Tesla's Supervised FSD system outside North America faces varying degrees of acceptance and resistance. In the UK, the DfT's revised safety guidelines significantly restrict the functions originally planned for autonomous driving systems. Initially, the draft allowed vehicles to perform complex maneuvers such as stopping at traffic lights, turning at intersections, and changing lanes without driver intervention. However, the updated version limits these capabilities to highway-specific actions and mandates that drivers maintain physical contact with the steering wheel. UK officials justify this change by highlighting potential new safety risks introduced by driver assistance systems. They advocate for a phased rollout, emphasizing the need for thorough evaluation of safety concerns during deployment.
In addition to the UK, European markets present their own set of challenges. Tesla's former Global Vehicle Automation and Safety Policy Lead, Marc Van Impe, pointed out major barriers in Europe due to UN Regulation 171, known as DCAS, which could delay FSD deployment until 2028. He stressed the need for an evolved type-approval framework to accommodate innovative technologies more swiftly. Despite these obstacles, Tesla managed to introduce an introductory version of Actually Smart Summon in Europe and the Middle East in November. CEO Elon Musk also noted European regulations as a significant barrier during the Q4 2024 earnings call, expressing hope for approval from an upcoming EU committee session in May.
Despite regulatory challenges, Tesla's efforts to deploy FSD globally continue. The company has successfully launched early FSD-related features in China and Mexico, showcasing progress amidst difficulties. Tesla's commitment to advancing autonomous driving technology remains strong, even as it navigates through stringent safety regulations and evolving policy landscapes. The future of FSD in international markets will depend on overcoming these regulatory hurdles while ensuring the highest standards of safety and reliability.
After acquiring a 2015 Fiat 500e, the author reflects on the challenges and lessons learned from owning this early electric vehicle (EV). Initially attracted by its affordability and past experience with a similar model, the author finds that living in a rural area presents unique difficulties. The main obstacles include slow charging speeds and limited range, especially during cold weather. However, there are also unexpected benefits, such as reduced maintenance costs and lower operational expenses.
The Trials of Slow Charging
The author quickly realizes that the Fiat 500e's slow charging speed is the most significant drawback. While occasional stops for stretching legs might not be an issue, the lengthy charging times make longer trips impractical. Modern EVs typically charge much faster, highlighting how rapidly technology has advanced. Despite knowing these limitations upfront, the author views this experience as a test to understand the realities of owning an older EV.
The 6.6 kW charging rate means that even a Level 2 charger requires several hours to provide sufficient range for highway travel. This becomes particularly problematic when planning trips beyond the immediate vicinity. The author notes that while they could tolerate brief stops, the extended waiting time for charging undermines the convenience of the vehicle. In contrast, newer models benefit from significantly improved charging infrastructure and faster charging capabilities, making long-distance travel more feasible. The author emphasizes that their choice was deliberate, aiming to explore the practicalities of using an early-generation EV in daily life.
Rural Living and EV Ownership
In a rural setting, the need for convenient home charging becomes paramount. Charging overnight at home offers ample range for daily use, but apartment dwellers may face challenges due to limited or non-existent charging facilities. The author’s decision to rent a house simplifies this issue, providing a dedicated space for charging. However, the lack of charging infrastructure in new developments highlights a broader issue in accommodating EV owners.
Living in a rural area also affects driving patterns and range considerations. Short trips can quickly deplete the battery, especially in colder temperatures, which further reduces effective range. The author recounts an instance of range anxiety during a visit to their partner’s house, where concerns about battery depletion led to an unnecessary detour. Over time, familiarity with the vehicle’s performance has alleviated some anxieties, though unpredictability remains a factor. Despite these challenges, the author appreciates the cost savings and minimal maintenance required for the EV, finding it ideal for short commutes and local errands.