Car Review: Fiat 500e Is Electric And Intelligent

EAST HADDAM, CT – Italian automaker Fiat may be down in the American market, but it’s clearly not out. They now offer a sole 500e model for U.S. consumption that’s not only all-new, it’s all-electric. And even more so, it’s intelligent, too.

The amped up 500e picks up from where the former internal combustion 500 series from 2011 left off. It’s slightly longer (2.4 inches), wider (2.2 inches) and taller (1.1inch) but still struts its adorable, if not iconic, stuff in the way that only a Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino (Fiat) product can.

But its advantage is more than just an inch or two of aesthetic refinement. I believe it’s a most intelligent answer to the controversial question of automotive electrification. 

Here’s why:

Most electric automakers have strived to develop EVs that offer the same functionality as gasoline cars for the multitude of highways and byways, particularly when it comes to overall operating range. 

Unfortunately, that results in bigger electric motors and more powerful batteries that add weight, expense and extended charging times. 

They’ve usually fallen short and don’t live up to expectations to the extent that “range anxiety” has often become ingrained with day-to-day ownership and has led to buyer remorse. 

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Fiat opted instead to focus on the city commuter side of the equation. The 500e offers a range of roughly 150 miles and requires some 35 minutes to charge to 80-percent capacity. So, for the most part, the Fiat fulfills the multitude of near (and thus real world) needs on a routine basis. It achieves expectations as an affordable, EV scoot-around alternative that is simultaneously alluring and enticing.

The company calls it “friendly, intuitive and fun to drive” and I couldn’t agree more. This electrified version of the irrepressible 500 two-door combines “fashion with function.” The round instrument cluster harkens back to the original 1950s design inspiration. The overall proportions are clearly in keeping with a Roman holiday because in addition to being all-electric, the cute Fiat 500e is also all-Italian. 

The made-in-Turin cabin is well trimmed and quite comfortable for those up front. The rear seat is better suited for Prada purses instead of people, though. The seven-inch instrument display is supplemented with a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Connectivity and infotainment are in keeping with the industry state of affairs with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Alexa Built-In.

The fetching Fiat weighs a respectable, and responsible, 2,981  pounds and rides on 17-inch wheels. Steering is precise and instantaneously quick as its Pirelli P7 Cinturato (“belted”) tires ambitiously bite into the tarmac with eager enthusiasm. Ride is clearly sports car inspired; no surprise considering the brand’s 125-year passionate heritage.

When it comes to safety, the entry level EV may be small but it’s stout. Supplemental air bags are supplemented by inflatable side curtain protection and a driver knee-bolster air bag. Electronic Stability Control, Forward Collision Warning, Lane-Departure Warning, Drowsy Driver Detection and Rear Park-Assist with a Back-up Camera demonstrate the company’s concern toward owner well-being.   

There are four 500e alternatives available. I drove a red  model that’s the outgrowth of a non-profit partnership to help support AIDS research. There also three “Inspired by” iterations with additional equipment including a Tuxedo Black “by” Music, Rose Gold “by” Beauty and Marine Mist “by” Los Angeles. 

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The Fiat 500e leads the electric city car segment in Europe and looks to do likewise in America by providing Italian grace and pace. At $34,095. 

So, if you care to dip a toe in EV water, this urbane and energized Italian loafer might just fit – assuming just two of you can live within a 150-mile operating routine before plugging in.  

Bellissima bambina…

(Photos courtesy of Fiat unless otherwise noted)