• Fiat 600e Abarth revealed
• Electric subcompact crossover comes in Touring and Scorpionissima versions
• Scorpionissima packs 278 hp, making it most powerful Abarth road car

The Fiat 600e electric subcompact crossover that went on sale last year in select markets has spawned a feisty Abarth variant.

Revealed in full on Monday, the new Fiat 600e Abarth is available to order in markets where the regular 600e is offered, and is scheduled to start deliveries next year.

There are two versions, a regular Touring model and extra-spicy Scorpionissima that Fiat will limit to 1,949 units worldwide. The number represents the year of Abarth’s founding by Carlo Abarth. The Scorpionissima can be recognized by its model-specific purple paint, dubbed Hypnotic Purple.

Both versions feature a single electric motor at the front axle generating a peak 237 hp in the Touring and 278 hp in the Scorpionissima. According to Fiat, the Turismo will sprint to 62 mph from rest in 6.2 seconds and the Scorpionissima in 5.9 seconds. The top speed for both versions is governed at 124 mph.

The cars also benefit from a mechanical limited-slip differential and Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires developed using lessons learned from Formula E. According to Fiat, the tires are designed to deliver an optimal mix of grip and low rolling resistance. Other performance upgrades over the regular 600e include a powerful Alcon brake package and sport-tuned suspension.

The battery has the same 54-kwh capacity as the regular 600e, but an upgraded cooling system means the battery’s performance lasts longer during hard driving. Fiat quotes a range of 207 miles on the WLTP cycle used overseas, which would likely be reduced when using the stricter EPA cycle.

Underpinning the 600e range is the updated CMP modular platform from Fiat parent company Stellantis. The platform debuted in the Jeep Avenger subcompact crossover sold overseas, and has also made its way into the Alfa Romeo Junior.

While Fiat’s 500e electric minicar, which has its own Abarth variant, started sales in the U.S. this year, the 600e isn’t expected to make the trip. Company CEO Olivier Francois said during the 2022 Los Angeles auto show that the U.S. will only have the smaller 500e.