2024 Fiat 500e Debuts as Cutesy, Affordable New EV
The all-new 2024 Fiat 500e made its official debut today, a few weeks before landing in Quebec and B.C. showrooms as a cheap new option for those looking to make the switch to electric vehicles. It will take the torch from the extremely low-selling 500X crossover, which is not returning for the 2024 model year.
The car pictured here is the (500e)RED, a collaboration with AIDS-fighting organization (RED), which was co-founded by U2 lead singer Bono.
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"Fiat is taking on BEVs in a way only the Italian brand can; combining ‘La Dolce Vita’ spirit of an icon with a mission of sustainability and zero emissions,” said Fiat CEO Olivier Francois. “The 2024 500e is a modern, tech-forward take on a beloved classic, delivering a host of new safety features, while remaining fun to drive and true to its roots. Try not to smile when you drive this car.”
How Much Range?
Equipped with a 42kWh battery, the 2024 Fiat 500e provides an estimated range of 227 km, comparable to the entry-level Nissan LEAF and the upcoming 2025 MINI Cooper SE, but obviously shorter range than small crossovers like the new Hyundai Kona Electric (420 km) and Kia Niro EV (407 km).
It completely charges in six hours when using a level 2 (240V) home charger, such as the one that will be available for purchase through Stellantis’ Mopar division. With a DC fast charger, the battery can go from 0-80 percent in 35 minutes and regain about 50 km of range in 5 minutes. Maximum charging capability is rated at 85 kW.
Still Unmistakable
Physically, the new 500e is longer and wider than the previous ICE-powered 500, resulting in more interior room. The lines are still unmistakable, but you need to pay attention to the new-look front and rear LED lighting, updated front grille and e-latch aero door handles. The car rides on brilliant, 17-inch diamond cut wheels.
Inside, Fiat says that every square inch has been thoughtfully designed for a modern interpretation of the timeless Italian style. The dashboard insert, rounded cluster and two-spoke steering wheel are an homage to the original 1957 500, while the 7-inch full digital cluster and 10.25-inch centre screen bring a decidedly modern touch. The latter comes with Uconnect 5 services, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus an in-vehicle Alexa virtual assistant with natural voice and “Hey Fiat” wake-up word capability.
Elsewhere, drivers will appreciate the additional storage available in the newly designed centre console and door panels, as well as the redesigned seats with 6-way driver’s seat adjustability and tasteful use of recycled materials.
What About the Drive?
On the road, the 2024 Fiat 500e will make its presence felt and heard with “The sound of 500,” an acoustic vehicle alert system that ‘sings’ to pedestrians. It was created by Italian composers Flavio Ibba and Marco Gualdi. Don’t expect electrifying acceleration, however, even with a weight of just 1,361 kg: the 117 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque generated by the electric motor propel the car from 0-100 km/h in a little over 8.5 seconds. Top speed is limited to 150 km/h.
As Fiat explains, three drive modes are available including Normal, Range (enables one-pedal driving with optimized regenerative braking) and Sherpa (limits top speed to 80 km/h and reduces output to 77 horsepower to preserve energy).
Under $40,000
The 2024 Fiat 500e will initially be available at dealerships in B.C. and Quebec (first quarter of 2024) and then will expand to other markets as production ramps up. Incidentally, every sale of the (RED) launch edition will trigger a donation to the Global Fund to support life-saving prevention and treatment programs in communities most in need.
Canadian pricing starts at $39,995 not including $2,095 destination and PDI. Naturally, the car is eligible to EV incentives including $5,000 in federal rebates and up to $7,000 in provincial rebates.
