√2023 Abarth 500e electric hot hatch to be unveiled this month

Abarth’s first electric hot hatch is due to be revealed later this month, ahead of an expected launch next year.

Fiat’s performance brand Abarth is poised to reveal its first electric car – the 2023 Abarth 500 hot hatch – later this month, ahead of its expected showroom launch in Europe next year.

Based on the latest Fiat 500 electric hatch, the new Abarth – branded as the “Abarth New 500” – is the company’s first foray into electric power, and will succeed the current petrol-powered Abarth 595/695, which are due to go out of production before the end of next year.

Few official details have been confirmed so far – beyond the reveal date, just after midnight (AEDT) on 23 November 2022 – however leaked photos and spy shots have revealed a sportier look, while insiders point to improved performance.

A leaked image last week showcased the Abarth 500 electric’s new Acid Green hero colour, applied over more aggressive bodywork, wider fenders, a larger rear spoiler and prominent Abarth branding.

As the successor to the petrol-powered Abarth range, the new electric model will want to match or exceed its performance – which currently sits at 6.7 seconds for the 0-100km/h dash, from a 132kW/250Nm 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine.

The standard Fiat 500 electric – with the optional 42kWh battery pack – develops 87kW and 220Nm from a front-mounted electric motor, good for 0-100km/h in nine seconds.

Stay tuned to Drive for more news on the 2023 Abarth 500 electric car once it is revealed in two weeks’ time. Australian launch timing is yet to be locked in – however it could follow the standard Fiat 500 electric range, due mid next year.

Abarth says it plans to go electric by 2024 – giving the petrol-powered range just over a year left in global showrooms.

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