Since 2007 when Fiat revitalised its iconic 500, this chic city car has had impressive appeal.
Its retro-inspired looks have meant the model has fascinated buyers of all ages – largely thanks to its design which is undoubtedly this model’s key draw.
And from next year, buyers in Europe will be able to get their hands on an even more appealing 500 – the electric 500e. While Fiat has offered this EV in the USA for several years, next year we’ll see a completely new model on British shores.
Here’s why we think it could be one of 2020’s most important EVs.
Attractive starting prices
Key to the Fiat’s 500’s appeal for more than a decade has been its low and affordable pricing – meaning more people can easily get behind the wheel of a 500. Attractive finance packages have also helped this, too.
While the electric model will always be more expensive than the regular petrol version, it should be one of the more affordable electric cars on sale, and help to give EVs more widespread appeal.
It will kickstart an electrification push from Fiat
Fiat’s European line-up has been somewhat lacking when it comes to electrified models, as it still has no models on sale that feature either a hybrid or electric powertrain.
However, when Fiat launches its new 500e next year it should kickstart a new EV offensive from the firm, which will continue with a further electric model based on the Centoventi concept – seen at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show – set to follow next year, too.
Further hybrid models should also appear in the near future, too – using powertrains shared with other FCA models.
It will feature a dedicated EV platform
Remarkably for a model that is now 12 years old, the Fiat 500 has aged incredibly well – looking just as fresh and appealing as it did in 2007. But the powertrains are one area where the model shows its age, and that’s what the 500e will address as it will feature its own dedicated electric platform.
No details have yet been given on what will power the model, though Fiat has said that you can expect it to look very similar to the petrol-powered model The new platform is also said to be able to deal with mild-hybrid technology, too.
Vast investment into the model
Fiat has previously confirmed that it has invested €700m (£600m) into its Mirafiori plant that will produce the electric Fiat 500. Production of the model is set to commence in the second quarter of 2020, while 1,200 people set to be dedicated to the production of this model. Fiat is also anticipating producing 80,000 models per year initially – showcasing its vast appeal.
