Italian auto marque Maserati enters the world of electric cars with the new Ghibli Hybrid, a refined take on the brand’s classic sedan.
We’ve come a long way in terms of electric cars and while many of the big US brands are still producing massive gas-guzzlers, the luxury segment has been quick to incorporate hybrid technology into the timeless design ethoses of some of the world’s most acclaimed car brands, including Porsche, Lamborghini, and Ferrari. The latest marque to join their ranks is Maserati, which has applied the power and panache of the trident brand to the new Ghibli Hybrid.
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The choice to introduce the hybrid technology on Maserati’s Ghibli sedan is no coincidence: this model, with over 100,000 units produced since its launch in 2013, perfectly embodies the Modena-based manufacturer’s DNA.
In fact, the challenge facing Maserati was to enter the world of electrification without altering the brand’s core philosophy and values. The result is an immediately recognisable Ghibli, with new interior and exterior lines (including the use of blue, now an identifier for Maserati hybrids) and the unmistakable toe-curling, guttural sound that distinguished every Maserati.
On the exterior, the blue colour characterises the three iconic side air ducts, the brake calipers, and the thunderbolt in the oval that encloses the Trident on the rear pillar. The same blue colour reappears inside the car, in particular on the embroidered seams of the seats.
The new Ghibli Hybrid also introduces new stylistic touches, including new bars on the front grille, and restyled rear lights inspired by the 3200 GT and the Alfieri concept car.
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In perfect harmony with its DNA, Maserati has chosen a hybrid solution focused primarily on improving performance, while also reducing fuel consumption and cutting emissions. The hybrid technology exploits kinetic energy the car accumulates when in motion, recovering it and transforming it into electricity during deceleration and braking, and storing it in a battery.
The innovative powertrain combines an internal combustion engine (4 cylinders, turbo, displacement of 2.0-litre) with a 48-volt alternator and an additional electric supercharger (e-Booster), supported by a battery mounted in the car’s rear. This solution is unique in its segment, and is the first in a new generation of powertrains, with the perfect trade-off between performance, efficiency, and driving pleasure.
Thanks to maximum power output of 330 hp and torque of 450 Nm delivered from just 1,500 rpm, the new Ghibli Hybrid accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a stately 5.7 seconds, offering a more refined driving experience for urbanites.
Another new addition is the latest version of the Maserati Intelligent Assistant multimedia system, which delivers an innovative user experience fully customisable to the driver’s preferences. The multimedia system’s updated HD screen is increased in size to over 10-inches, while a new instrument panel with digital devices and new graphics has also been introduced.
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The new Ghibli Hybrid represents the first step in a plan that will lead to the electrification of all new Maserati models. The brand’s first all-electric cars will be the new GranTurismo and GranCabrio, scheduled for 2021.
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