With Europe, and then later Japan, the initial target markets, Abarth is going electric, with the 500e recently launched. Developed in partnership with its fan base, it will even include a sound generator to ensure lovers of the “roar” won’t have to give it up.

A special launch edition of the Abarth 500e called the “Scorpionissima” will be limited to 1,949 units worldwide, paying tribute to the company’s birth year. The launch edition comes in optional Acid Green or Poison Blue paint, new side graphics and one trim level.

It features exclusive diamond-Cut Titanium Grey alloy wheels and will be available in both hatchback and cabrio. The interior has a fixed glass roof in the hatchback, with rear privacy glass, some sporty pedals and a kickplate, engraved with the new Abarth lighting bolt logo.

The Dashboard is nicely laid out and features some sports mode screens, specifically designed for enhanced electric drive monitoring. You get some nice bucket seats in a dark grey Alcantara, to match that on the dash.

Uconnect is on board for infotainment and to also integrate with the Fiat Mobile App. The new 500e will also come equipped with all your mainstay safety features including traffic sign detection, autonomous emergency braking, and intelligent speed assist.

You’ll also find lane keep assist, driver monitoring, cruise control, blind spot warning and emergency call assist. The e-motor in the 500e is a 113.7kW system mated to a 42kwh battery. It’s good for 220Nm of torque as well.

From a ride and handling perspective, the overall track is wider than a traditional petrol variant, and with the batteries in the floor, you get a much lower centre of gravity. It’s good for the sprint to 100km/h in 7.0 seconds.

The 500e come with three drive modes: Turismo, Scorpion Street and Scorpion Track. Turismo takes away a little power for extra efficiency, while Scorpion Street is normal power with regenerative braking active. Top level performance is found in Scorpion Track.

In terms of recharging, utilising an 85kW fast charger will push the 500e to 80 per cent in roughly 35 minutes. The coolest bit though, is the soundscape on offer when the car is switched on and off, and when it’s moving.

There’s no word yet on if or when it will arrive down under.