2024 Fiat 500e

“Cinquecento returns Electrically”

2024 FIAT 500e

“Cinquecento returns Electrically”

By Arv Voss

THE BACK STORY:

Fiat pulled out of the U.S. marketplace forty years ago. Following the Italian automaker’s hook-up with Chrysler, the spunky little hatchback returned to our shores in 2012 as the Fiat Cinquecento or Fiat 500. It was available exclusively as a three-door and came inPop, Sport, Lounge and designer Gucci trim levels.

The power source was a 1.4-liter SOHC, 16-valve, four-cylinder with port fuel injection that developed only 101 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 98 pound feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. The transmission was a five-speed manual as standard or an optional 6-speed automatic.

OVERVIEW:

The beloved little Fiat 500 has returned as a 2024 model and is available as a two door, four passenger hatchback and is powered exclusively by electric propulsion, hense the 500e designation. Its mission is to serve as an affordable EV featuring agile handling and visual appeal with Italian styling.

ELECTRIC POWER PLANT:

The 500e’s motive force is delivered by a permanent magnet synchronous AC –

37.0 kWh electric motor with liquid-cooled lithium battery pack and 11.0 kW

onboard charger. Horsepower is rated at 117 while the torque is rated at 162.

The motor is mounted up front driving the front wheels via a direct drive

transmission. There are three different driving modes – Normal, Range, and

Sherpa. The most regenerative braking system mode that allows for one-pedal

driving.

UPDATED ITALIAN STYLING:

The 500e’s design has been upgraded both inside and out while retaining the

exterior charm of the previous generation’s retro- modern appearance and

appeal. Inside, a big 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system features the

latest version of Uconnect 5 software interface. The cabin not only

looks better now, but is better equipped that before as well – not to mention more

comfy.

The 500e will be introduced in special versions at regular intervals each of which

will be available for a limited time. The first will be the Inspi(RED) model that

benefits Product Red raising money to fund HIV and AIDS research. The next two

models will be Inspired by Music and Inspired by Beauty. The Beauty model

comes in only Rose Gold paint, with the Music version is only available in Tuxedo

Black. Both are fully loaded with driver-assistance features and desirable items

such as heated front seats, adaptive cruise control and parking sensors. The

Inspired by Music model also boasts a 7-speaker JBL: stereo system tuned by

Andrea Bocelli. Pricing will range from $34,095 to $37,595.

PERFORMANCE:

The 500e is an excellent urban transport not especially deemed as a freeway

cruiser or high-performance racer. The U.S. battery pack is claimed to deliver a

range between 141 and 150 miles. The battery may bne recharged at a DC

charging station at up to 85kW, adding 31 miles of range in only five minutes.

Standard fare includes automated emergency braking and Lane-keeping Assist.

Available options include: adaptive cruise control and a lane-centering feature.

AS TESTED:

My 2024 Fiat 500e was the Inspi(RED) model with a bright Red (Rosso)

Exterior finish and the interior executed in grey with Red accents and piping. The base price was set at $ $32,500 with the final tally coming to $34,095.

OUR FINAL TAKE:

Many will dub the FIAT 500e as “cute” – adorable and fashionably Italian also apply to this diminutive and affordable EV. It is also fun to drive, especially in the one-pedal mode. It’s perky off the line and delivers agile handling characteristics along with a firm but comfortable ride. There is no complimentary scheduled maintenance, but there is a limited warranty covering four years or 50,000 miles, a powertrain warranty for 4 years o5 50,000 miles and electrical components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles. Bottom line, the 500e is an ideal compact EV for an urban environment.