Fiat 500 returns to the U.S. in 2024 as a pure EV.
U.S. fans of the Fiat 500 can look forward to a new generation of this small hatchback fully electric car in early 2024.
Fiat will make the official unveiling Thursday at the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show, unveiling three one-off models with designs inspired by famous Italian fashion and lifestyle brands Armani, Bulgari, and Cartel.
The 500 was last sold in the U.S. in 2019, in both gas and 500e electric models. A redesigned, fully electric 500 will go on sale abroad in 2021, and this third-generation model is the version that will go on sale here in 2024, badged as the 500e.
"The new 500e is not just a car, but a social project to fulfill America's desire for a change to sustainable mobility," Fiat CEO Olivier François said in a statement. 'We want to introduce EVs to America with the iconic Fiat 500.'
The U.S.-spec 500e will debut a year later at the 2023 L.A. Auto Show, at which point Fiat will likely have a spirited Abarth version, although it is not clear if the Abarth will also be sold in the United States. It is about 2.4 inches longer and wider overall. The wheelbase has also been lengthened by 0.8 inches, giving the car more cabin space.
The largest battery offered in Europe is a 42 kwh unit, but the U.S.-spec 500e may be equipped with a larger battery. In addition, the maximum output of the European version is 117 hp.
Production takes place exclusively at parent company Sterantis' Mirafiori plant in Turin, Italy. The plant recently underwent an $800 million upgrade to prepare it for EV production, including future EVs for Maserati, also a Sterantis brand.
