La Dolce Vita, which translates to “sweet life” is epitomized by the 2024 Fiat 500e.
It’s 100% electric, 100% Italian, and the perfect ride if you happen to live in a large city and own a home-level 2 charging unit. With an effective range of about 100 miles on a full-charge, the 500e delivers mobility, joy and style as you whiz in and out of traffic, and into tight parking spots without drama.
The two-door coupe seats four, but realistically the rear seat passengers had better be kids. Leg room is at a serious premium in the back, although head room is fine. With the rear seats folded flat, there was room for two full-size golf bags.
The veritable 124-year old automaker brings a battery-powered electric vehicle to this side of the pond with the 500e. At just over 3,000 pounds, the Fiat is the lightest electric vehicle in the segment.
Powered by a 42-KWh battery, the 500e generates 117 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds, providing excellent performance while managing range.
Three drive modes are available with the Fiat 500e to suit any driving style:
• Normal – This mode closely resembles familiar driving characteristics. For example, the coasting experience of an internal combustion engine
• Range – Activates one-pedal-drive function, which optimizes regenerative braking to capture more energy when coasting
• Sherpa – Maximizes energy efficiency to ensure the driver reaches their planned destination or the nearest charging station. This mode adjusts various parameters, such as limiting the vehicle top speed to 50 mph, and reducing power from 87 kW to 57 kW. Full throttle delivers full power if requested
The 500e features one-pedal driving, an experience unique to electric vehicles. This uses the electric motor and regenerative braking to provide stop and go function using only the accelerator pedal. This feature also provides greater capture of energy that would normally be lost and uses the electricity later for propulsion, which is ideal for low-speed, urban traffic.
And the Fiat 500e certainly garners more than its fair share of rubbernecks. The exterior sports a noticeably present stance while remaining true to the historic lines that have made the 500 an icon. Larger dimensions give drivers a confident view of the road ahead. The exterior features new front and rear LED lighting, e-latch aero door handles, and an updated front grill to give the vehicle a fresh yet elegant appearance. These features combine fashion and function as they contribute to improved aerodynamics, which increases the electric range. The 500e stands on brilliant, 17-inch diamond-cut wheels for a bold, dynamic presentation.
Inside, every square inch has been thoughtfully designed for a modern interpretation of the timeless Italian style. Fiat enthusiasts will immediately recognize the dashboard insert, rounded cluster and two-spoke steering wheel as an homage to the original 1957 Fiat 500. Classic meets contemporary with a 10.25-inch center screen with Uconnect 5 services, combined with a 7-inch full digital cluster for a harmonious user experience.
The 500e features one-pedal driving, an experience unique to electric vehicles. This uses the electric motor and regenerative braking to provide stop and go function using only the accelerator pedal. This feature also provides greater capture of energy that would normally be lost and uses the electricity later for propulsion, which is ideal for low-speed, urban traffic.
And the Fiat 500e certainly garners more than its fair share of rubbernecks. The exterior sports a noticeably present stance while remaining true to the historic lines that have made the 500 an icon. Larger dimensions give drivers a confident view of the road ahead. The exterior features new front and rear LED lighting, e-latch aero door handles, and an updated front grill to give the vehicle a fresh yet elegant appearance. These features combine fashion and function as they contribute to improved aerodynamics, which increases the electric range. The 500e stands on brilliant, 17-inch diamond-cut wheels for a bold, dynamic presentation.
Inside, every square inch has been thoughtfully designed for a modern interpretation of the timeless Italian style. Fiat enthusiasts will immediately recognize the dashboard insert, rounded cluster and two-spoke steering wheel as an homage to the original 1957 Fiat 500. Classic meets contemporary with a 10.25-inch center screen with Uconnect 5 services, combined with a 7-inch full digital cluster for a harmonious user experience.
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