The arrival of the new Ghibli Hybrid expands the Maserati range, which is now even more competitive and responsive to the demands of the market. The choice to introduce the hybrid technology on the Ghibli saloon is no coincidence: this model, with over 100,000 units produced since its launch in 2013, perfectly embodies the Modena-based manufacturer’s DNA. The hybrid technology exploits the kinetic energy the car accumulates when in motion, recovering it and transforming it into electricity during deceleration and braking, and storing it in a battery.
Ghibli Hybrid is immediately recognisable, thanks in part to the new design of both exterior and interior. The common denominator of the restyling, developed by the Centro Stile Maserati, is a new blue colour, chosen to identify all cars with hybrid technology and the new world they represent. On the exterior, the blue colour characterises the three iconic side air ducts, the brake calipers and the thunderbolt in the oval that encloses the Trident on the rear pillar. The same blue colour reappears inside the car, in particular on the embroidered seams of the seats. The new Ghibli Hybrid also introduces new stylistic contents, starting from the new front grille, with bars redesigned to represent a tuning fork, a musical device that emits a sound of extreme purity, and which also evokes the Trident symbol itself. The new Ghibli Hybrid represents the first step in a plan that will lead to the electrification of all-new Maserati models. The brand's first all-electric cars will be the new GranTurismo and GranCabrio, scheduled for 2021.
The mild hybrid technology deployed by the Ghibli Hybrid allows the car to lead on innovation while retaining classic Maserati traits. The outcome of in-depth engineering development work by the technicians and engineers at the Maserati Innovation Lab in Modena combines an internal combustion engine (4 cylinders, turbo, displacement of 2.0 l) with a 48-volt alternator and an additional electric supercharger (e-Booster), supported by a battery. This solution is unique in its segment and is the first in a new generation of powertrains, with the perfect trade-off between performance, efficiency and driving pleasure. The battery is mounted in the rear of the car, with benefits in terms of improved weight distribution.
Ghibli Hybrid also marks the debut of the new Maserati Connect programme, which enables a constant connection with the car: the information exchange continues when on the move, to improve the services offered to the driver. As well as updating the software packages, the system performs checks on the car and monitors the Safety Security services in emergencies. The Maserati Intelligent Assistant multimedia system is of the latest generation, based on digital inputs from Android Auto software that delivers an innovative user experience that is fully customisable to the driver's personal preferences. The multimedia system's HD screen, with new graphics, more user-friendly and without surrounds, is increased in size from 8"4 to 10"1. A new instrument panel with digital devices and new graphics is also introduced.