New Fiat 500e: 320 km of range and almost 38,000€

The third generation of the Fiat 500 is here. It will be the first city car with Level 2 autonomous driving and the first 100% electric model from FCA.

The new Italian model completely renews its design, significantly increases its technology and joins the electric camp. Under the nickname 500e, the new Fiat presents a total revolution. After learning about its hybrid version and speculating about the possibility of an electric variant, the Italians have finally revealed everything about their new city car. The Fiat 500e would undoubtedly have been one of the most anticipated new arrivals at the Geneva Motor Show which, let us remember, was cancelled last week due to the Coronavirus.

Fiat 500e: total range of 320 km

Two of the most important things to consider when buying an electric car are its range and its charging time. But Fiat has done a good job and has fitted lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of 45 kWh that allow the 500e to offer a range of up to 320 km.

The engine powering the new Italian model delivers 118 CV of power and is capable of reaching 150 km/h. Not bad figures at all. In fact, its 0-100 km/h time is 9 seconds, but its 0-50 km/h time is barely 3 seconds. That will make it extremely fun to drive. But that enjoyment can also be managed through the driving modes: Normal, Range and Sherpa.

The first of these is the standard mode with nothing new. Range mode offers one-pedal driving, where the level of deceleration increases and the brakes are used less to prevent their premature wear. Sherpa mode is even more “ECO”. It limits the car to a maximum speed of 80 km/h and the seat heating and cabin climate control systems are switched off. Perhaps this way we will reach the homologated 320 km of range.

And finally in this section, the charging time. According to Fiat, its 500e can charge 80% of its battery in just 35 minutes at a fast charger. That is, 50 km every 5 minutes. At a normal domestic socket it would complete its charge in 6 hours. Standard on the launch version, the Fiat 500e “La Prima”, the Easy Wallbox charging system is offered to avoid additional costs.

How is its design?

Although at first glance the Fiat 500e may seem quite similar to the 500s of previous generations, it is not. While it is true that it keeps the essence that has brought it to where it is, the Italian model offers major new features both outside and inside. The LED front headlights give it a sportier look, and the detail of the door handles built into the bodywork gives it the perfect electric touch.

Its physical presence is more striking because it has grown in almost every dimension. It is 60 mm wider and longer, and has 2 cm more wheelbase. Therefore, we are looking at a model that, while maintaining its proportions to remain a city car, has improved its interior space. Speaking of the cabin, despite keeping its usual design, it has higher-quality elements such as a touchscreen of more than 10 inches and can be fitted with faux leather upholstery.

Level 2 autonomous driving

Although we are used to seeing all new models with at least this Level 2, it is still positive that the Fiat 500e also has it. It is the first car in its segment with Level 2 autonomous driving, so it can be proud. And what does it offer?

The technologies that allow the 500e to achieve this Level 2 are the following: lane keeping assist; blind spot detection with ultrasonic sensors; adaptive cruise control with pedestrian and cyclist detection; automatic lights; electric parking brake; driver attention and fatigue alert; 360º sensors.

Pre-bookings for the launch edition

The “La Prima” launch edition is a limited run of 500 units, already available since yesterday, 4 March, through the official Fiat website. This special series will include exclusive features as standard that will later be optional on the other 500e versions. In addition, “La Prima” will be available in three colours: Mineral Grey, Ocean Green and Celestial Blue. Apart from the special launch edition, Fiat offers three other limited editions for the 500e: 500 Giorgio Armani, 500 Kartell and B.500 “Mai Troppo”.

And finally, its price. What everyone has been waiting for. The price of the new 500e “La Prima” convertible, with the Wallbox as standard and all the equipment corresponding to the launch edition, is €37,900. This is the starting price without applying any discounts from campaigns or environmental aid and incentives in each country. The new Fiat 500e will arrive in summer.