Maserati’s Entry into the Electric Luxury Car Market
Maserati, known for its luxurious Italian design and performance, has entered the premium import car market with its latest electric vehicles: Gran Turismo Folgoré and Gran Cabrio Folgoré. The brand, part of the prestigious ‘Doksamsa’ group alongside Mercedes Benz, BMW, Audi, and Porsche, is expected to bring its renowned sensitivity and attention to detail to the electric vehicle (EV) segment.
A Luxurious Driving Experience
During a recent media test drive event in Korea, Maserati showcased the capabilities of its new electric models. The event, held between downtown Seoul and Yeongjong Island in Incheon, allowed journalists to experience the performance and luxury features of the Gran Turismo Folgoré.
Upon entering the Gran Turismo Folgoré, passengers were greeted by a luxurious interior adorned with red design elements. The cabin felt like sitting in a luxury shopping bag, with intense colors and high-quality materials. Maserati emphasized its commitment to sustainability by using ‘econil,’ a nylon material regenerated from waste collected from the sea. The use of laser processing techniques on the dashboard and door interiors added a unique touch to the vehicle’s personality.
Performance and Sound Design
Maserati is renowned for its engine sound design, often involving experts such as pianists and composers alongside engineers. This attention to sound was evident in the Gran Turismo Folgoré, where the exhaust sound, typically associated with internal combustion engines, was naturally implemented in the electric vehicle. The addition of vibration to simulate the exhaust sound eliminated the awkward driving texture often associated with EVs.
Driving Impressions
During the test drive, the Gran Turismo Folgoré accelerated cheerfully from a standstill and maintained its performance even at high speeds. The vehicle’s ability to accelerate without difficulty, even near 100 kilometers per hour, highlighted its capability as a luxury sports car.
However, some minor drawbacks were noted, such as the overly large paddle shifters, which could interfere with other controls like the turn signal or wiper.
Conclusion
Maserati’s foray into the electric vehicle market with the Gran Turismo Folgoré and Gran Cabrio Folgoré represents a significant step for the luxury car brand. By combining its heritage of luxurious design and performance with the latest electric vehicle technology, Maserati is poised to make a substantial impact in the premium EV segment.
