Fiat launches Fiat 500e electric car
Fiat have announced (3 March 2020) the Fiat 500e electric car. A new fully electric version that was designed from the ground up to be an electric car. The new version will not replace the current model which will continue to be built in Poland. The 500e is a completely new project and will be built in Turin, launching in the UK as the 500e La Prima.
The familiar shape of the 500 is retained with the new model. However there are notable differences such as the thick roof pillars, new LED headlights, and a fresh front fascia. The Fiat badge has been replaced with a large 500 badge in the grille. The rear and tailgate are also more rounded. The taillights create an E-shaped motif when illuminated to emphasise that it is an EV.
The new 500e is slightly larger than the current model. Length and width increase by 6 centimetres while the wheelbase is 2 cm longer.
Inside the dashboard integrates a 10.25-inch touch screen, as well as a series of buttons that resemble the keys of a piano. The instrument panel is replaced by a 7-inch digital screen.
The 500e has a “Uconnect 5” multimedia system that connects to the internet and is also accessible through your smartphone. Optional extras include automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Three driving modes are available: Normal, Range, and Sherpa. Sherpa severely curtails creature comforts and performance in to increase range.
The powertrain is a single electric motor with a 42 kWh battery pack. The motor develops 118 bhp giving 0 to 62 mph in 9.0 seconds. Top speed is 93 mph. The claimed range is 199 miles (Euro-spec WLTP standards).
Charging times are 35 minutes for a 80% charge on an 85kW charger or 14 hours at home for 100%
The 500e is available of immediate ordering from £29,000.
