FIAT 500e Is Back: Get Shocked By the Electric 500
FIAT 500e Article Highlights:
- The FIAT 500e is returning to American streets as a new battery-electric vehicle (BEV) to rival trendy EVs like the Mini Electric.
- According to Stellantis, the new electric 500 will hit North American roads in the first quarter (Q1) of 2024.
- As part of the launch festivities, FIAT announced three one-off concept cars with designs by Bvlgari, Armani, and Kartell.
Stellantis’ beloved little urban hatchback is back for the next generation. However, the FIAT 500 is no longer powered by the familiar 1.4L inline four-cylinder powerplant. Instead, the FIAT 500e returns with electric propulsion, and the marque is celebrating with three concepts with designs by Bvlgari, Armani, and Kartell. The 500e EV will likely battle with the Mini Hardtop Electric in terms of fun, stylish electric cars.
Will the new 500e come to the US?
The new FIAT 500e is headed to the North American market by Q1 of 2024. Moreover, the new electric hatchback is true to its original formula. That means a diminutive platform, two doors, and a hatchback. Even better, the new EV model retains much of the retro styling and charm of the older gas-powered and electric models.
Stellantis executives undoubtedly want to market the new electric FIAT model as a trendy alternative to sober EVs. Oliver Francois, the CEO of FIAT and CMO global of Stellantis, says that the new vehicle is “a social project to feed America’s appetite for change toward sustainable mobility.” Moreover, Stellantis itself bills the 500e as “the ultimate fashion accessory.”
What is the range of a 500e?
Unfortunately, Stellantis hasn’t revealed any details about the upcoming FIAT 500e’s range. However, previous versions of the eccentric electric hatch didn’t get very far on a single charge. TrueCar says the 2019 variation would cover just 84 miles before running out of juice. That’s barely sufficient for urban commuting, but the new car could exceed that range.
Furthermore, the previous electric 500 couldn’t compete with the 2023 Mini Electric’s range. The Mini EV manages 114 miles on a single charge. While that’s short compared to competitors like the Nissan LEAF, the Mini and FIAT models target drivers who want style over sensibility.
What unique versions did FIAT unveil?
Before the new FIAT 500e cruises into the new car market, the marque created three unique versions in collaboration with prominent designers. First, a Giorgio Armani edition incorporates laser etching, two-tone “silk effect” coloring, and UV-activated paint. Next, the marque partnered with Kartell to create a fitting tribute to both the FIAT model and Kartell’s iconic blue. Finally, Bvlgari joined forces with FIAT to create a MAI TROPPO model to celebrate “La Dolce Vita.”
While these versions are rolling art installations, the production vehicle promises to capture the same joyful style of the Bambino. Keep up with MotorBiscuit and follow our YouTube channel for the latest automotive content!
