Alt text: A front three-quarter view of the 2024 Fiat 500e, showcasing its compact and modern design.
The 2024 Fiat 500e signifies the return of a small electric vehicle that Fiat once discouraged Americans from purchasing. The timing for this new 500e, slated to arrive in early 2024, appears significantly more opportune than its predecessor.
From Compliance Car to Coveted EV
The original Fiat 500e, available only in California and Oregon, was primarily produced to meet California’s zero-emission vehicle mandate. Despite its affordability and retro styling borrowed from the gasoline-powered 500, it wasn’t a profitable venture. Former Fiat Chrysler Automobiles CEO, Sergio Marchionne, even publicly lamented the financial losses incurred with each sale.
Alt text: A front view of the 2024 Fiat 500e highlighting its iconic round headlights and compact size.
This time, things are different. Unveiled in 2021 and already available in Europe, the 2024 500e maintains its modern take on the classic 1950s Fiat 500. Crucially, it’s designed from the outset as an EV, not a converted gasoline car. Fiat is clearly invested in this model’s success, foregoing a gasoline version altogether.
Compact Design, Lightweight Build
While larger than the previous generation, last sold in the U.S. in 2019 (gasoline version), the 2024 500e remains a compact car. Its curb weight of 2,952 pounds positions it among the lightest EVs currently available, contrasting sharply with the trend towards heavier electric trucks and SUVs.
Alt text: A side profile view of the 2024 Fiat 500e emphasizing its small size and two-door design.
Performance and Charging
The 500e features a single electric motor delivering 118 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels, reaching a top speed of 94 mph. Its 42-kilowatt-hour battery pack provides an estimated range of 149 miles. DC fast charging at up to 85 kilowatts allows for an 80% charge in 35 minutes, while a full charge using a Level 2 AC home charger takes four hours and 15 minutes.
Technology and Features
Alt text: The interior of the 2024 Fiat 500e showing the dashboard, steering wheel, and infotainment screen.
The 500e comes equipped with a standard 10.25-inch touchscreen featuring Stellantis’ Uconnect 5 infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Essential driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist are also standard.
Availability and Pricing
Initially, the 500e will launch as a “(RED Edition)” in collaboration with the AIDS charity (RED), priced at $34,095. Fiat plans to release other variants as limited editions, similar to fashion product drops, and intends to incorporate online sales while maintaining its existing dealer network.
Alt text: The digital instrument cluster in the 2024 Fiat 500e displays speed, range, and other important driving information.
A Timely Arrival
The 2024 Fiat 500e enters a market with limited options for small, affordable EVs. It stands out from Stellantis’ other North American EV offerings, which primarily consist of trucks and SUVs. While the original 500e may have been ahead of its time, this new version arrives at the perfect moment.
