Alfa Romeo CEO: The 'World Is Not Ready Everywhere' For EVs

Hybridization is inevitable, but even Alfa Romeo's CEO understands that not everyone is ready for EVs.

2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Collection

Photo by: Alfa Romeo

Jeff Perez

By: Jeff Perez

Apr 27, at 12:00pm ET

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the breakdown

Alfa Romeo CEO Santo Ficili says the 'world is not ready everywhere' for EVs.
The upcoming Giulia and Stelvio will have EV and hybrid options.
Quadrifoglio models will live on with electrification.

Batteries are inevitable, whether it’s a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric. Alfa Romeo recognizes this shift and plans a mix of hybrid and fully electric models—but even the brand admits that full electrification isn’t quite ready for primetime.

In an interview with Autocar, Alfa Romeo CEO Santo Ficili explained that the company is taking a global approach with its upcoming Giulia and Stelvio, noting that not every region is prepared to fully embrace EVs. As he put it, "the world is not ready everywhere." Instead, Ficili emphasized the need to meet customers where they are:

'We need to find a way to satisfy the needs of our customers. What does this mean? It means BEV and it means all the other kinds of endothermic [powertrains], so ICE, PHEV, BEV. So that's the direction.'

2026 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio Collection

Photo by: Alfa Romeo

Alfa's Electrification Strategy

Although Alfa Romeo initially planned to go all-electric, the company has since adjusted its strategy. The next-generation Giulia and Stelvio will now be offered with both hybrid and fully electric options.

Both models will ride on the STLA Large platform. While this architecture was originally designed for EVs, it also supports multiple powertrain types, including hybrids and plug-in hybrids. The shift required some re-engineering, though, which delayed the models from their originally expected debut.

Under the hood, entry-level versions are expected to use turbocharged four-cylinder engines paired with mild-hybrid systems. Plug-in hybrids will likely feature a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine combined with a rear-mounted electric motor, similar to other STLA-based setups.

The new Giulia and Stelvio are also expected to grow in size. Previously, the Giulia competed with compact luxury sedans like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, while the Stelvio rivaled SUVs such as the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Collection and Stelvio Quadrifoglio Collection

2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Collection and Stelvio Quadrifoglio Collection

Photo by: Alfa Romeo

What About Quadrifoglio?

Performance fans can rest easy—Alfa Romeo’s Quadrifoglio models aren’t going anywhere. These high-performance variants are expected to offer both electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

Power figures could exceed 670 horsepower, with some rumors pointing to versions approaching 1,000 horsepower, though that remains unconfirmed. Some of the underlying technology may be shared with platforms used in vehicles like the latest Dodge Charger.

What do you think?

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Full details are still under wraps, but both models are expected to arrive around 2027 as part of the 2028 model year lineup.

Motor1's Take: Alfa Romeo seems to be taking a pragmatic approach. Rather than rushing headlong into full electrification, the company is hedging its bets—developing vehicles that can support a range of powertrains. It’s a strategy that reflects the current reality: the transition to EVs is well underway, but it’s not happening at the same pace everywhere.