The Fiat 500 42kWh is a groundbreaking electric city car that has made a significant impact in the global automotive market since its introduction in 2020. As the all-electric variant of the iconic Fiat 500, the 500 has captivated eco-conscious consumers with its retro-inspired design, impressive performance, and innovative features.
Fiat 500 42kWh Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Announced | 2020, March |
| Status | Available to order. Released 2020 |
| Base Price | €28,990 / $34,100 / £25,490 |
| Power | FWD 87 kW (118 hp) |
| Torque | 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) |
| Acceleration | 9 sec 0-100 km/h |
| Top Speed | 150 km/h (93 mph) |
| Battery Capacity | 37.3 kWh usable, 42 kWh total |
| Battery Tech | Water-cooled Li-ion 360V |
| Range | 312 km WLTP |
| Consumption | 14.3 kWh/100 km WLTP |
| Recuperation | 3 levels, via driving modes |
| Heat Pump | Yes |
| AC Charging | Type 2 11 kW, 0-100% in 4 hours |
| DC Charging | CCS 85 kW max, 10-80% in 25 min |
| Body Type | 3 door hatchback, 4 seats |
| Platform | e-CMP |
| Dimensions | 3632 x 1683 x 1527 mm (143.0 x 66.3 x 60.1 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2322 mm (91.4 in) |
| Weight | EU: 1405 kg unladen, 1726 kg gross |
| Suspension | Front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam axle |
| Wheels | R15, R16, R17 |
| Trunk | EU: 185 l, 550 l max |
| Center Display | 10.25″ touchscreen |
| Driver’s Display | 7″ |
| Seats | Heated front seats |
| Roof | Panoramic glass roof, fixed |
| Parking Aids | 11 front and rear sensors, 360 camera, reversing camera |
| Connectivity | Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay |
| Airbags | Side airbags, front, head airbag system |
| Driving Aids | Front radar and camera. Lane Keep Assist, Lane Centering Assist, Blind Spot Alert, Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrians and cyclists detection, Traffic Sign Recognition, Attention Assist |
| Crash Tests | NCAP 2021: 4 stars |
Performance
The Fiat 500 42kWh is a lively and engaging electric city car, delivering a spirited driving experience that complements its retro-inspired design. Equipped with an 87 kW (118 hp) electric motor and a generous 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque, the 500 provides ample power for navigating urban environments with ease.
The 500 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 9 seconds, which is impressive for a compact electric city car. This brisk acceleration allows you to dart through city traffic and merge onto highways with confidence. The top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph) may not set any records, but it is more than sufficient for the 500’s intended use as a practical and efficient city car.
Battery and Charging
At the heart of the Fiat 500 42kWh is a 42 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, with a usable capacity of 37.3 kWh. This water-cooled battery system, paired with the vehicle’s efficient electric powertrain, provides a WLTP-rated range of 312 km (194 miles) on a single charge. While this may not be the longest range in the electric city car segment, the 500’s compact size and urban-focused design make it well-suited for daily commutes and short-distance trips.
The 500 supports AC charging at up to 11 kW, allowing a full charge in approximately 4 hours when using a Level 2 charging station. For faster top-ups, the vehicle is equipped with a CCS connector that enables DC fast charging at up to 85 kW, enabling an 80% charge in just 25 minutes. This versatility ensures that the 500 can be conveniently recharged at home, work, or on the go, making it an ideal choice for both daily commutes and longer road trips.
Design and Dimensions
The Fiat 500 is a true icon of automotive design, seamlessly blending the classic styling cues of the original Fiat 500 with modern, electric-focused updates. The compact hatchback’s retro-inspired silhouette, rounded front end, and distinctive taillights instantly capture the attention of onlookers, while the sleek and aerodynamic body helps to maximize efficiency.
Measuring 3632 mm (143.0 in) in length, 1683 mm (66.3 in) in width, and 1527 mm (60.1 in) in height, the Fiat 500 offers a spacious and practical interior for up to four passengers. The vehicle’s 2322 mm (91.4 in) wheelbase provides a stable and composed ride, while the front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam axle suspension system ensures a comfortable and responsive driving experience.
The 500 rides on either 15-inch, 16-inch, or 17-inch wheels, contributing to its dynamic appearance and handling characteristics. Unfortunately, the 500 does not offer a frunk (front trunk) or towing capabilities, but its 185-liter (6.5 cu ft) cargo space and the option to fold the rear seats for up to 550 liters (19.4 cu ft) of storage ensure ample practicality for everyday use. The available panoramic glass roof adds a touch of openness and airiness to the cabin.
Infotainment and Displays
The Fiat 500 is equipped with a comprehensive infotainment system, centered around a large 10.25-inch touchscreen display. This state-of-the-art system offers seamless wireless integration with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing you to easily access your favorite apps, music, and navigation services.
Complementing the central display is a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, which provides the driver with a wealth of information, including vehicle speed, battery status, and driving mode. While the 500 does not offer a head-up display, the combination of the touchscreen and digital cluster ensures a modern and user-friendly interface for accessing key vehicle functions and settings.
Comfort and Convenience
The Fiat 500 prioritizes comfort and convenience for both the driver and passengers. The front seats are heated, providing a welcome touch of luxury, especially during colder months. The available panoramic glass roof enhances the sense of openness and airiness within the cabin, while the advanced parking aids, including 11 front and rear sensors, a 360-degree camera, and a reversing camera, make maneuvering the compact hatchback a breeze.
For connectivity, the 500 offers seamless wireless integration with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing you to stay connected and entertained on the go. The vehicle’s climate control system and premium sound system further contribute to the overall refinement and comfort of the driving experience.
Safety Features
The Fiat 500 is equipped with a range of safety features to protect both the driver and passengers. The vehicle boasts a robust body structure and a comprehensive airbag system, including side, front, and head airbags, providing comprehensive coverage in the event of a collision.
The 500 also features a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including front radar and camera, and a range of intelligent safety features. These include Lane Keep Assist, Lane Centering Assist, Blind Spot Alert, Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Attention Assist. These cutting-edge technologies work together to enhance the vehicle’s situational awareness and provide an extra layer of protection for all occupants.
Pricing and Availability
The Fiat 500 42kWh is currently available to order in various markets, with first deliveries beginning in 2020. The base price for the 500 starts at €28,990 (approximately $34,100 USD or £25,490 GBP), positioning it as a competitive offering in the electric city car segment.
The 500’s combination of striking design, advanced technology, and impressive performance has made it a compelling choice for eco-conscious consumers seeking a unique and stylish electric vehicle. As the brand’s first foray into the all-electric market, the 500 has set a new benchmark for what a premium compact electric city car can offer, and its influence on the industry will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
Conclusion
The Fiat 500 42kWh is a groundbreaking electric vehicle that has captivated the hearts and minds of eco-conscious consumers around the world. With its iconic design, impressive performance, and innovative features, the 500 has set a new standard for what a compact electric city car can be.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards a more sustainable future, the 500 will be remembered as a pioneering electric vehicle that paved the way for the next generation of urban-focused, emission-free transportation. Its impact on the industry can be seen in the design and engineering of newer, more advanced electric city cars, as manufacturers strive to deliver the same blend of style, efficiency, and practicality that made the 500 such a beloved and influential model.
The 500’s legacy will continue to shape the electric vehicle landscape for years to come, as the electric revolution gains momentum and more consumers embrace the benefits of zero-emission mobility. With its combination of retro-inspired charm and cutting-edge technology, the Fiat 500 stands as a testament to the power of innovation and the enduring appeal of the iconic Fiat 500 design.
