The Fiat 500e, an electric vehicle that was previously sold only in California and Oregon, is making a comeback in 2024. The original 500e was introduced to meet California’s zero-emission vehicle mandate, but it lost money for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the predecessor of current Fiat parent Stellantis. Sergio Marchionne, the head of FCA at the time, even publicly stated that he hoped customers wouldn’t buy the 500e.
However, things are different this time around. The new 500e is a modern interpretation of the classic 1950s Fiat 500, but it was designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle. It’s not even being sold with a gasoline counterpart, a departure from previous generations of the 500.
The 2024 500e is smaller than many electric vehicles on the market, with a curb weight of 2,952 pounds, making it one of the lightest EVs available. It’s also more affordable, with a starting price of $34,095. This new generation of the 500e is a significant departure from the original, which was only available in a few States and was not well received by the company.
This new version, however, seems to be more well-suited for the modern market. It has a single electric motor that produces 118 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, which is sent to the front wheels. This setup allows the 500e to reach a top speed of 94 mph, making it more than capable of handling daily driving tasks.
Fiat’s Triumphant Return to the Electric Car Market
The 500e also comes with a range of 149 miles, which is estimated based on the US Environmental Protection Agency’s testing procedures. It features a 42-kilowatt-hour battery pack that can be charged using a Combined Charging Standard (CCS) connector, which allows for DC fast charging at up to 85 kilowatts. This means that the 500e can be charged to 80% in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for those who need to charge their car quickly on the go.
In addition to its impressive charging capabilities, the 500e also features a standard 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that runs on the Uconnect 5 platform. This system includes wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Amazon Alexa integration, as well as basic driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist.
Fiat is launching the 500e in a single “RED Edition” spec, in partnership with the AIDS charity (RED), co-founded by U2 front man Bono. This limited-edition version is priced at $34,095 and is expected to be released in early 2024. Other variants of the 500e will be launched periodically as limited releases, similar to fashion product drops.
One of the most notable features of the 500e is its lack of a traditional sales process. Fiat is planning to take at least some of the buying process online, allowing customers to purchase the car without having to visit a dealership. However, the company will still maintain a traditional franchised dealer network for those who prefer to buy their car in person.
The new 500e is a significant player in the small, affordable electric car market, which is currently lacking in options. With its impressive range, charging capabilities, and affordability, the 500e is sure to appeal to those who are looking for a more affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered cars.
Fiat’s return to the electric car market with the 500e seems like a smart move. The company has learned from its previous mistakes and has created a car that is well-suited for the modern market. With its competitive pricing, impressive range, and impressive charging capabilities, the 500e is sure to be a hit with eco-conscious buyers.
