when the new Fiat 500 reach the market next October, we will actually have two 500 on sale. The one we all know and which has been sold since 2007 — and which this year won a new mild-hybrid variant — is a truly new and exclusively electric one.
Both are called 500, but they are not two versions of the same car. The new Fiat 500, despite the identical contours, is a totally different vehicle, bigger in dimensions, and with differentiated styling elements, and a 100% new interior, reinforced with many more technological arguments.
Until now it has been available in pre-reservation, in its special launch versions “La Prima”, both in the Cabrio version, which sold out, and closed (saloon). The pre-booking period, meanwhile, gave way to the start, today, of orders for the “La Prima” saloon version.
The new Fiat 500
Exclusively electric, the new Fiat 500 comes with an electric motor with 118 hp of power, which allows it to reach 100 km/h in 9.0s and a maximum speed limited to 150 km/h.
The necessary electrical energy comes from a 42 kWh lithium-ion battery that guarantees a 320 km range (WLTP), which can go up to 458 km in an urban circuit.
To charge it, the new model accepts DC (direct current) charges up to 85 kW, allowing it to receive enough energy in five minutes to travel 50 km. When fast charging, it takes 35 minutes to charge up to 80% of the battery.
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One of the biggest highlights, in addition to being 100% electric, are its technological arguments. In this “La Prima” special edition, the new Fiat 500 comes with Level 2 autonomous driving, the first city car to allow it. It also has automatic emergency braking, high resolution front and rear camera, automatic light and anti-glare sensors, in addition to 360º sensors.
Finally, the new 500 is the first Fiat model to bring the new UConnect 5 infotainment system, accessible via a 10.25″ touchscreen or voice commands, with a digital instrument panel (Full TFT 7″ ). It also brings Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless, and additional connected services.
First off the production line
Production of the new Fiat 500 has already started, with the first unit to roll off the production line to be shown on video by Olivier François, Fiat's president:
“As a general rule, we take the first lap of a new model with the cameras turned off. But for the New 500, I decided to take you with me! The first Test drive of the New Fiat 500 is a very special moment and also a little magical. A “vision” that becomes reality. A teamwork that materializes. But, honestly speaking, it's also a very demanding time.”
An opportunity also to get to know, in more detail, some of the features of the new model, especially its much more technological interior.
