Home Auto News Maserati’s Innovative Strategy: Bill Peffer Guides the Trident’s Dual Approach

Maserati’s Innovative Strategy: Bill Peffer Guides the Trident’s Dual Approach

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Maserati, a renowned Italian luxury brand with a rich motorsports heritage, finds itself at a crucial turning point, mirroring the challenges faced by the wider automotive industry. However, unlike other automakers, Maserati is taking a unique approach as it prepares to celebrate the centennial anniversary of its inaugural vehicle, the Tipo 26, which debuted in 1926. The company has completely revamped its product line by introducing two versions of each model: an internal combustion engine variant and a battery electric version. Furthermore, Maserati is capitalizing on the growing demand for luxury SUVs by expanding its offerings in this segment to complement its supercars and performance luxury sedans.

During a conversation with AutoMotorMart on a rainy summer day in Chicago, Bill Peffer, the CEO of Maserati Americas, provided an insightful overview of this distinctive strategy and the reasoning behind it. Peffer emphasized the vital role of financial investment, particularly enabled by Maserati’s affiliation with the Stellantis group. He highlighted the industry-wide shift towards electrification, emphasizing that Maserati has gone beyond the tipping point and views electrification as a long-term trend. As a global brand situated at the pinnacle of the Stellantis 14-brand lineup, Maserati aims to lead rather than follow.

Peffer proudly showcased Maserati’s latest offerings at a temporary showroom in Chicago. The highlights included the MC20 mid-rear supercar, which spearheaded Maserati’s renaissance in 2022, the GranTurismo coupe (awaiting the arrival of the electric Folgore model), and the Grecale mid-size crossover, positioned between the Porsche Macan and Porsche Cayenne, poised to become the brand’s best-selling model in the high-volume segment.

Significantly, Maserati’s product transformation encompasses powertrain diversification. The transition involves shifting from V-8 engines to twin-turbo V-6 engines and from sedans to crossovers. This two-pronged powertrain approach will be adopted for at least five out of the eight models in Maserati’s lineup. Peffer, who has extensive experience in the automotive industry, acknowledged the rapid pace of change occurring within the sector over the past five years, surpassing the transformation witnessed in the preceding two decades.

Maserati’s foray into electric vehicles (EVs) includes the GranTurismo Folgore, the brand’s first battery electric vehicle, referred to as “Folgore,” meaning “lightning” in Italian. Equipped with a 92.5-kWh battery pack arranged in a T-shape configuration and situated within the driveline tunnel and behind the rear seats, this electric grand tourer boasts three 300-kW motors, delivering 750 horsepower and 995 lb-ft of torque. The all-wheel-drive vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a breathtaking 2.6 seconds. Peffer expressed his admiration for the impressive torque and power potential of EVs.

Maserati’s commitment to EVs differentiates it from many luxury automakers who are transitioning to dedicated EV platforms while phasing out combustion engines. While some competitors plan to introduce EV-exclusive lineups by specific target dates, Maserati has taken a more comprehensive approach. The brand has overhauled its existing lineup with new combustion engine models designed to be compatible with electric propulsion systems. Maserati aims to unveil its first dedicated EV platform, without a corresponding combustion engine version, in the near future, although details regarding the iconic Quattroporte’s potential electric-only offering remain unconfirmed.

Maserati leverages its association with Stellantis, the world’s third-largest automotive group, as a competitive advantage in its global operations spanning 77 countries. Peffer explained that standalone competitors often face limitations in research and development due to resource constraints. In contrast, Maserati benefits from the robust financial backing and resources provided by Stellantis. The CEO emphasized that cost-cutting and parts sharing are not part of Maserati’s growth strategy. Instead, the brand’s transformation will be driven by its product portfolio and a focus on evoking an emotional response from potential customers.

Peffer stressed the significance of Italian design, craftsmanship, and the brand’s performance heritage. Maserati’s participation in Formula E reflects its commitment to incorporating racing-derived technology into road vehicles. The integration of advanced propulsion systems and in-car connectivity represents crucial areas of focus for the brand.

Despite the disruptions unfolding in the automotive industry, Peffer maintains a positive outlook. He exudes confidence in Maserati’s revitalized product line and the brand’s dual approach to powertrain technology. Maserati’s ambition is not to become the largest or fastest-growing automaker but to be the best in a rapidly transforming environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Maserati, electrification

What is Maserati’s unique approach to its product lineup?

Maserati has implemented a dual approach to its product lineup by offering both internal combustion engine versions and battery electric versions for each model.

How does Maserati view the trend towards electrification?

Maserati sees electrification as a long-term trend in the automotive industry and has gone beyond the tipping point. The company believes it is not a fad and is committed to leading in this area.

How is Maserati differentiating itself from other luxury automakers in terms of electrification?

While many luxury automakers are transitioning to dedicated EV platforms and phasing out combustion engines, Maserati has taken a comprehensive approach. It has overhauled its existing lineup with models compatible with both combustion engines and electric propulsion systems.

What is Maserati’s plan for the future of its powertrains?

Maserati is transitioning from V-8 engines to twin-turbo V-6 engines and from sedans to crossovers. This two-pronged powertrain approach will be applied to at least five out of the eight models in Maserati’s lineup.

How does Maserati leverage its affiliation with Stellantis?

Maserati benefits from being part of the Stellantis group, which provides financial backing and resources that give it a competitive advantage. This affiliation enables Maserati to make significant investments in research and development and stay at the forefront of industry transformation.

What is Maserati’s focus in terms of design and technology?

Maserati places great importance on Italian design, craftsmanship, and its performance heritage. The brand is actively involved in Formula E and aims to incorporate racing-derived technology into its road vehicles. Additionally, Maserati is emphasizing technology in its new product generation, focusing on advanced propulsion systems and in-car connectivity.

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4 comments

LuxeRider June 22, 2023 - 11:17 pm

Maserati’s partnership with Stellantis is a game-changer. With the backing of a major automotive group, they have the resources and support to compete in the global market. It’s refreshing to see a brand prioritizing product-led transformation and not compromising on design or quality. Can’t wait to experience the new Maserati lineup firsthand!

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AutoFanatic78 June 23, 2023 - 12:35 am

It’s interesting to see Maserati taking a different approach compared to other luxury automakers. By offering two versions of each model and transitioning to electric powertrains, they are catering to a wider range of customers and future-proofing their lineup. I’m curious to know more about their upcoming dedicated EV platform!

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CarLover93 June 23, 2023 - 3:21 am

maserati is really goin all in on eletrification. its a good move tho, theyre keepin up with the trends and offerin both combustion and battery electric versions of their cars. cant wait to see how the new lineup performs on the road!

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SpeedDemon22 June 23, 2023 - 6:27 am

Maserati’s CEO, Bill Peffer, seems confident in their strategy and is proud of their heritage and performance legacy. Their focus on technology and design shows their commitment to staying ahead in the fast-changing automotive industry. Exciting times for Maserati enthusiasts!

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