The recently launched Alfa Romeo Giulia saloon is now offered with petrol engines alongside electric power, suggesting a potential shift in the manufacturer's lineup of large family cars. Former Alfa Romeo CEO and current Stellantis Europe CEO, Jean-Philippe Imparato, stated that they have the flexibility to adapt to uncertainties in regulations and would consider alternative power sources if needed.While Alfa Romeo had previously announced plans to become a fully electric car company by 2027, they are now exploring the possibility of offering a variety of powertrains for the Giulia and Stelvio SUV. These models are expected to utilize the Stellantis STLA Large architecture, which will also support other vehicles within the Stellantis group.
The electric version of the Giulia is projected to have a range of at least 800km and will offer battery options ranging from 85kWh to 118kWh, making it one of the longest-range electric vehicles on the market. It is also expected to feature best-in-class rapid charging capabilities, with up to 32 kilometers of range added per minute.
During a discussion at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, Imperato revealed that his successor, Santo Ficili, is prepared to implement a multi-fuel strategy if market demands necessitate it. This change in strategy reflects a shift in the European EV market, contradicting Imperato's previous stance. Despite this potential shift, Alfa Romeo remains committed to driver engagement and the brand's focus on sporty driving dynamics.
Imperato envisions Alfa Romeo maintaining its commitment to the philosophy of ‟light is right‟ even with the introduction of EVs. He emphasized the integration of this principle into the development of the brand's new lineup, focusing on creating a unique driving experience for customers.
Regarding the performance of the Giulia lineup, the future of the Quadrifoglio model remains uncertain. There is a possibility of more powerful all-wheel-drive models in the future, with ambitious performance targets set for cars built on the STLA Large platform. Alfa Romeo plans to introduce performance-focused Quadrifoglio versions with all new car releases.
Stellantis will have three electric drive modules available for its EV models, delivering up to 443bhp per motor using advanced technology. The brand is considering various exciting future models, including a GTV and Duetto Spider, depending on the financial security of Alfa Romeo. Despite challenges, the brand is confident in its ability to bring innovative designs to fruition with advancements in its product portfolio.
