Future electric Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio to challenge competition with 1,000 HP

Global automakers race to shift their portfolios away from diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles, and Alfa Romeo is poised to lead the pack. The brand is set to make a substantial shift to electric power with its first electric vehicle set to debut in 2024, featuring a range of modern and high-performance features.

Alfa Romeo's electric transition is set to commence with a subcompact crossover, which is expected to be released in the first half of 2024. However, what has been drawing considerable attention is the automaker's promise to maintain the iconic "Quadrifoglio" name. These new models are planned to replace the Giulia and Stelvio's V6-powered performance versions with purely electric variants.

Details on the electric Quadrifoglios are currently scarce, but the CEO, Jean-Philippe Imparato, teased in an interview that these models would sport between 900 to 1,000 hp, significantly more than the current twin-turbo 2.9-liter engine.

According to Imparato, these high-performance models will benefit from next-generation battery technology designed to improve efficiency. This approach will enable engineers to reduce battery pack capacity, consequently reducing the vehicle weight. Moreover, the future Quadrifoglio models will be equipped with wireless charging capabilities, another key feature to anticipate.

Imparato also shared Alfa Romeo's approach to customer experience with EVs. The automaker is shifting focus from 0-60 mph and Nürburgring lap times to a more user-focused approach: the driving experience. Prospective customers will be invited to test-drive a Quadrifoglio EV, a move set to demystify the EV driving experience and convert combustion engine lovers to electric vehicle enthusiasts.

The automaker is also considering changes to the interior design, particularly around the infotainment system. We can expect displays larger than 13 inches, although these won't cover the entire dashboard to avoid distracting drivers. The CEO hinted at the inclusion of "special features" in these next-generation infotainment systems, although no further details were provided.

In an interesting design twist, Alfa Romeo intends to adopt a retro-inspired look for its EVs. Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, the design chief, is expected to revive design cues from classic 1960s models. These efforts will not only infuse a classic appeal but will also contribute to improved aerodynamics and efficiency.

The Giulia, slated for release around 2025, is anticipated to be a tour de force with an impressive power output and a driving range exceeding 700 km. Its platform will likely be shared with the upcoming Peugeot 3008 SUV to keep development costs low, but will sport more advanced chassis technology. The sedan is expected to transform into a four-door coupe design, rivaling the Porsche Taycan.

As the brand moves towards its goal of being entirely electric by 2027, Alfa Romeo is planning to replace the Stelvio SUV with a battery-electric version in 2026, followed by a flagship sedan in 2027. This step will be pivotal in the company's strategy to boost its presence in key markets, including the US and China.

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