01
“Innovation at Maserati applies rich history to state-of-the-art technology.”
Designing for historic, powerhouse brands like Maserati demands embracing standards and carrying on traditions. Working with such beloved machines, how do you innovate—within the lines?
Across the Grecale’s four-model collection (the GT, Modena, Trofeo and Folgore), Busse’s team of designers honors the brand’s history of building cars using Italian materials that reflect the warmth, shapes and sculpture of the country. Traditionally that’s been Italian leather and wood, but those materials didn’t seem fitting for the 100% electric Folgore model, so the team sourced an unconventional alternative.
“One of my favorite details is actually the seat of the electric Grecale, because it’s not made out of leather,” Busse says. “We’re using a material called econyl, recycled nylon made from fishnet harvested from the sea.”
Gluing two layers of econyl on top of each other—in different shades—state-of-the-art lasers cut away the top layer, revealing a dynamic pattern of “folgore,” or lightning. Busse calls this mix of technology and electrification a “metamorphosis” for the brand, but not everything’s changing. “We’re still applying Italian creativity. We’re using lasers, but they’re programmed by an Italian engineer.”
Across the Grecale collection, style is paired with functionality. “The instrument cluster behind the steering wheel has what we call a settle cut,” explains Busse of the rounded display’s split configuration and deeper positioning. Typical displays are rectangular, which leads to lost real estate behind the steering column. “We created an industry first, reinventing the cluster … for a perfect viewing angle of the steering wheel.”
It’s a fine detail, but that’s the point. “It represents this kind of thinking that we have in design and engineering to really challenge ourselves to do something that’s going to be the first in the market—but that also serves the customer.”
ECONYL
A nylon made from recycled fishnet, used for the seats of the electric Grecale Folgore.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
The digital display is constructed
for optimal visibility.
“Innovation at Maserati applies rich history to state-of-the-art technology.”