Fiat has taken its first step in electrifying its European line-up by launching a new mild-hybrid powertrain for its Panda and 500 city cars.
Replacing a 68bhp 1.2-litre petrol engine, this new unit is a three-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol that comes with a 12-volt electric motor and lithium battery producing 69bhp and 92Nm of torque.
Fiat says the new mild-hybrid powertrain reduces fuel consumption, along with reducing CO2 emissions by up to 30 per cent, with no impact on performance.
The belt-starter generator (BSG) electric motor also promises to improve smoothness with a better integrated stop and start system, while also recovering energy during braking and deceleration to store in the battery for use in stop and start traffic.
The tech is being rolled out onto two of Fiat’s core products – the Panda and 500 city cars, which will both be offered with a ‘Launch Edition’ grade. These can be recognised by ‘Hybrid’ logos, as well as a new Dew Green colour. Special seats made from recycled plastic also feature.
These new models are Fiat’s first electrified models to be sold in Europe, with a new all-electric version of the 500 set to follow later this year.
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Both the 500 and Panda mild hybrids will be available to order from later in January. First deliveries of the 500 are expected in February, with those of the Panda following a month later. Prices have not yet been announced.
