Alfa Romeo Stelvio to be Reborn as an All-Electric SUV in 2026

🗓️ Timeline Update & Launch Delay
- Alfa Romeo initially aimed to launch the all-electric Stelvio EV in early 2026, following an unveiling in late 2025 with production beginning H1 2026 (autocar.co.uk, auto123.com).
- However, according to Reuters, Stellantis is delaying the launch due to softer EV demand in Europe and strategic recalibrations: deliveries have been pushed back to September–October 2026, with some sources suggesting early 2027 at the latest (reuters.com).
⚙️ Platform & Powertrain
- The Stelvio EV will be built on Stellantis’s STLA Large “electric-first” platform, produced at the Cassino plant—alongside the upcoming Giulia EV—and leveraging the new STLA Brain and SmartCockpit systems (autocar.co.uk).
- As an 800‑volt-capable architecture, STLA Large supports ultra-fast charging; prototypes hint at up to 320 kW peak DC charging (autocar.co.uk).
- Battery capacity expected between 85–115 kWh, potentially reaching the STLA Large’s theoretical max of 118 kWh, enabling up to 800 km CLTC/500 miles EPA range in high-end configurations (motor1.com).
- Powertrain options will likely include single- or dual-motor layouts, with adjustable performance up to a Quadrifoglio variant boasting nearly 1,000 hp, and hybrid alternatives for wider market coverage (motor1.com).
- CEO Santo Ficili confirmed the Stelvio EV will also be offered with hybrid powertrains, underscoring Alfa’s multi-energy approach (caranddriver.com).
🎯 Design & Driving Dynamics
- At approximately 4.70 m long, the next-gen Stelvio retains its mid-size SUV silhouette but evolves with a smoother front fascia highlighting a full diamond-shaped V-shaped shield and relocated “Biscione” emblem (motor1.com).
- Flush door handles, split LED headlights, reworked alloy wheels, and a sleeker rear light signature utilize clean, aerodynamic lines more befitting an EV .
- Alfa emphasises “driver engagement” with STLA Brain tech, head-up display “ghost cars,” and fine-tuned chassis dynamics and anti-roll systems to maintain sporty handling (autocar.co.uk).
🔋 Battery & Range Potential
- Expected battery options range from 85 to 115 kWh, matching STLA Large envelope; in prototype specs, top-tier variants may approach 800 km CLTC (≈500 miles EPA) (motor1.com).
- With 800‑volt architecture, Stelvio EV could charge 20–80% in under 30 minutes using fast-charging peaks similar to Porsche Taycan-level capabilities (autocar.co.uk).
⚙️ Hybrid Backup Strategy
- Reflecting shifting market conditions, Alfa will offer hybrid ICE-electric variants alongside the pure EV model—aiming to appeal to customers wary of full-electric at launch (reuters.com).
- This multi-energy plan leverages STLA Large platform flexibility and hedges against regulatory and market uncertainties (autoexpress.co.uk).
🧭 Production & Stellantis Italy Strategy
- Production will be located at Cassino, Italy, reinforcing Stellantis’s investment in Italian plants ahead of a 2026–2027 production ramp-up, supported by €2 bn national investment .
- As part of Stellantis’s platform rollout, Cassino will handle both Stelvio and Giulia EVs, central to Alfa’s electrification efforts (carmagazine.co.uk).
🚘 Market Positioning & Competition
- Stelvio EV will compete in the growing mid‑size luxury EV segment against models like Audi Q6 e-tron, Porsche Macan EV, Tesla Model Y, and future BMW iX3/Volvo counterparts .
- With Alfa’s DNA, sleek Italian design, flexible powertrains, and high-performance Quadrifoglio options, Stelvio EV aims to stand out in a crowded field.
⚙️ Recap Table
Feature Details
| Platform | STLA Large (800 V-capable)
| Battery | 85–115 kWh, up to ~800 km CLTC / 500 mi EPA
| Powertrain | Single-/dual-motor EV; Quadrifoglio ~1,000 hp; hybrid version
| Charging | Up to ~320 kW DC, 20–80% ≈30 min
| Launch | Reveal late 2025, production Q3–Q4 2026
| Location | Cassino, Italy
| Competition | Q6 e-tron, Macan EV, Model Y, iX3 etc.
✅ Final Insight
Alfa Romeo’s Stelvio EV revival embodies a bold blend of Italian style, EV performance, and pragmatic product strategy:
- STLA Large EV-first architecture offers strong technical potential.
- Hybrid option signals realigning to market demands.
- Delayed timeline reflects cautious rollout in a cooling EV Europe.
- Quadrifoglio EV underscores Alfa’s performance identity.
Despite delays, this SUV could redefine the brand’s electric future—especially if it delivers on spirited driving, styling, and versatility that loyal Alfisti expect.
League Manager Editorial Team
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