This story includes speculative illustrations for a fictional Fiat Barchetta electromod created by independent designer Marco Maltese that are neither related to nor endorsed by Fiat.
The Fiat Barchetta, the predecessor of the now-discontinued 124 Spider, has been somewhat neglected by the automotive press. Independent designer Marco Maltese wanted to change that, so he created a stylish electromod version of the Italian roadster, hoping to expand its lifecycle in the future EV-only world.
The Fiat Barchetta was originally introduced back in 1995 as an FWD alternative to the Mazda MX-5 NA. Despite its age, its styling – penned by Andreas Zapatinas – has aged quite gracefully. Not wanting to take away any of the boat-style uniqueness of the original, Marco Maltese kept his take pretty much intact, adding only a few modernized details. Also, instead of basing his concept on the facelift (2003-2005), he used the original design (1995-2003), which is the sexier of the two.
See: Single-Seater Mazda MX-5 NA With An ND Engine Looks Like A Lot Of Fun
Changes are limited to the revised bumpers which got cleaner looks and subtle aero extensions, the modern LED graphics on the headlights, the LED taillights with body-colored inserts in modern Fiat fashion, and the bespoke rear deck that got a pair of humps inspired by the roadsters of the ’60s. Interestingly, the designer chose not to add a roof mechanism of any kind, leaving the cabin exposed at all times. As a finishing touch, the larger diameter wheels improve the proportions, while the yellow-painted brake calipers are a nice sporty touch.
Inside the cabin, we find new seats, premium leather upholstery, more stylish climate vents finished in brushed steel, and a redesigned center console made of carbon fiber. A small infotainment touchscreen has been neatly integrated offering smartphone connectivity and navigation, while the modern-looking climate controls are also a welcome upgrade. Furthermore, the classic instrument cluster received digital and configurable dials, and ambient lighting has been added.
More important changes occur under the bodywork. The concept was envisioned with a rear-mounted electric motor producing 237 hp (177 kW 241 PS), effectively converting the Barchetta to a proper RWD roadster. Mind you, the FWD-only original came fitted with a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter engine producing 129 hp (96 kW / 131 PS). Thus, the power boost and the extra torque from the electric motor sound like more than enough to offer adequate performance despite the increased weight. Speaking of which, the batteries are evenly distributed between the two axles.
Maltese calls his Fiat Barchetta electromod “legal”, since the zero-emission powertrain conversion would allow it to legally circulate in European roads even after the ICE ban. While this is nothing more than an independent design study, we would love to see a similar project coming to life. The designer noted that out of the 56,000 units of the Barchetta produced between 1998 and 2005, many are still being used by their owners so there is a market out there for a possible EV conversion.
H/T to Marco Maltese for sharing his project with us
