Giovanni Sgro Talks about Maserati Corse and an all electric Maserati line-up

As the head of Maserati Corse, Giovanni Sgro is in charge of Maserati’s motorsport efforts. These include the company's participation in ABB FIA Formula E and GT2. We caught up with him at The Quail right after Maserati unveiled the GT2 Stradale to talk about motorsport, special track cars, and electric cars.

What can you say about the GT2 Stradale that's not necessarily in the press release?

The Maserati GT2 Stradale, a road car inspired by the remarkable GT2 track racing machine, stands as a true testament to Maserati’s credibility and authenticity. Born from the high-performance world of racing, it showcases a seamless blend of track-inspired aerodynamics and the cutting-edge Nettuno engine. This car exemplifies what the Maserati brand represents: a perfect harmony of design and engineering excellence. It truly is a beautiful, beautiful machine.

Visually stunning, the GT2 Stradale captivates with its striking color, sleek lines, and distinctive rear fin. It embodies an exceptional balance between aesthetic beauty and technical prowess. Driving this car offers a unique experience—combining luxurious performance with unparalleled comfort. It’s not just a vehicle, it’s an embodiment of Maserati’s legacy and a testament to the extraordinary driving experience it delivers.

Maserati has a long history in racing. The company is currently involved in GT racing and Formula E. Will Maserati consider Formula 1?

Our strategy has been to position Maserati as the first Italian luxury automobile brand to compete in Formula E. By embracing electrification, we are not only reinforcing our commitment to an entirely electric vehicle lineup but also celebrating our racing heritage and future ambitions through the Folgore range. "Folgore" refers to our all-electric powertrain, which symbolizes both our historic successes on the track and our forward-looking innovations.

Entering GT2 has allowed us to engage with professional race car drivers, teams, and passionate enthusiasts aiming to compete at the highest levels. Our return to GT racing is driven by our past successes with the MC12 and Andrea Bertolini, whose expertise has been crucial in developing the GT2 Stradale, the GT2 track car, and the MCXtrema. Bertolini's deep knowledge has been instrumental in creating some of the most iconic and high-performance vehicles in the world.

The MCXtrema, a limited-edition model, exemplifies Maserati's engineering prowess and design excellence. Our focus is clear: we are dedicated to excelling in GT2, Formula E, and the MCXtrema, reinforcing our brand's value and performance capabilities.

Given Maserati's rich history of competing in prestigious events like the Indianapolis 500, GT racing, and Formula 1, we remain open to exploring new racing opportunities. Our legacy provides us with the credibility and flexibility to venture into any championship, making us a brand full of surprises and possibilities. Nothing is off the table.

How have Maserati customers reacted to the electric cars that are currently on the market and is there something that they can thank Maserati's participation in Formula E for?

While there isn’t a 100% technology transfer from Formula E to our four-wheel range, the innovations and inspiration from Formula E have significantly influenced our development of high-performance electric vehicles, like the GranTurismo Folgore. Formula E serves as an excellent platform to showcase Maserati's capabilities in the electric realm.

We are proud to produce some of the world’s most luxurious and high-performing electric vehicles, with the GranTurismo Folgore standing out as a prime example. Our customers appreciate the iconic sound of the Nettuno engine, but Maserati is more than just its engine notes. When you step into a Maserati, you’re not merely experiencing the sound of the motor, you’re immersing yourself in a comprehensive 360-degree experience.

While the sound of the engine may be a notable feature, it is the overall driving experience that distinguishes our vehicles. When you get behind the wheel of the GranTurismo Folgore, you’ll find that the acceleration and power are so exhilarating that the sound becomes secondary. The focus shifts entirely to the unparalleled performance experience we offer.

Regardless of the engine sound, we never compromise on performance or the iconic Maserati experience. Each drive delivers a memorable, immersive journey that remains unmatched – an iconic experience that no one can replicate.

Maserati has made the commitment that by 2030, all cars in the lineup will be electric. Why have you decided not to have any hybrids?

Part of our mission is to embrace electric mobility, not merely as participants but as leaders in the luxury sector. We are committed to setting the standard in electric mobility, positioning our brand at the forefront of this transformative industry. This focus reflects our dedication to excellence and innovation in the realm of luxury electric vehicles.

What can you tell us about the MCXtrema that's not apparent in the press release?

The unique essence of this car is something that only a select few will experience. With just 62 units being made and only 62 owners worldwide, only a handful of people will ever know what it’s like to drive this exceptional vehicle. While I can detail its horsepower, aerodynamics, and design, nothing compares to the feeling of sitting inside, starting the engine, and driving around a track.

Have you driven one?

I leave the driving to Andrea Bertolini, our Chief Test Driver and racing advisor, who has been instrumental in fully developing these cars from a driver’s perspective. As a championship race car driver, his insights have been invaluable.

What I can say about this car is that it represents the perfect balance between design and power—neither was sacrificed for the other. The car’s design is striking, it looks like a rocket ship. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to see the car on the track, or hear it in action, to take a closer look. When you read about this car, I urge you to delve deeply into the details. This vehicle embodies Maserati’s dedication and the 1,000% commitment of everyone involved in creating the MCXtrema.

In the minds of many, the MC12 is considered legendary. What variant of the MC20 do you think can match that MC12 status?

Personally, I believe the MCXtrema truly stands out. When you look at the MC12, for example, its design is so distinctive that it almost feels like you dreamed it up yourself. Its sleek, recognizable look is part of what makes the MC12 iconic. The MCXtrema, in my opinion, evokes a similar impression. Its powerful, beautifully crafted design reflects the same excellence.

While the MCXtrema and the MC12 are distinct vehicles, and not directly competing with each other, the MCXtrema represents a continuation of Maserati’s design legacy. It’s not just a successor but a symbol of Maserati’s ongoing commitment to innovation and style, destined to be iconic for many years to come.

Which Maserati streetcar would you say has benefited the most from Maserati's involvement in racing, past or present?

For me, the MC20 stands out as the quintessential expression of the Maserati experience. Having been with Maserati for just over two years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the exceptional beauty and sleek design of the MC20, which we introduced a few years ago. This sports car is a true testament to our heritage on the track.

Our success in championship racing with the GT2—the GT2 car is based off of the MC20—further underscores this connection. Since its debut in October, the GT2 has consistently secured podium finishes and has won a significant number of races. This performance highlights the synergy between the MC20 and the GT2.

When people see the GT2 race car in action, they’re witnessing the pinnacle of performance, engineering, and design, thanks to the Nettuno engine. The MC20, which served as the inspiration for the GT2, GT2 Stradale, and MCXtrema, embodies those same qualities.

Showcasing the MC20 not only highlights its authenticity and credibility but also illustrates the remarkable lineage and achievements it represents. That, I believe, is the core value of the MC20.

What has been the biggest benefit of Formula E to Maserati street cars?

Firstly, for those unfamiliar with our brand, it's important to share our rich racing heritage. Maserati's commitment to single-seater racing is historic. Last year marked our first podium finish in 66 years, achieved by Max Günther in Berlin, a remarkable achievement following Fangio's era. Our triumphs in Jakarta and Tokyo further cemented our status, making us the first Italian brand to compete in Formula E—a significant milestone. This legacy demonstrates Maserati’s evolution over the past century: a brand with a long history that continually adapts and innovates.

Secondly, we want to emphasize our foray into electrification. Our move into the EV space reflects our commitment to future mobility. We offer a stunning range of electric vehicles, including the GranCabrio, GranTurismo, and Grecale Folgore models, with more on the horizon. This expansion highlights our dedication to integrating cutting-edge technology with performance.

The technology transfer from track to road is crucial. While not every advancement translates directly, our involvement in Formula E provides valuable insights. We gain immediate feedback on energy conservation, battery efficiency, and vehicle drivability. Analyzing race data allows us to refine and apply these insights swiftly, enhancing our technology and performance.

Our racing heritage, innovative electric vehicle range, and the continuous improvement through technology transfer are three core benefits that define Maserati’s forward-looking approach.

What is your favorite Maserati car?

The Maserati Bora. The Bora is a blend of new and classic, and it definitely makes an impact when you see it. If I had a garage, it would definitely be one of the cars I’d have inside. I’d also include the MCXtrema, the MC20, and the GranTurismo Folgore.