DriveLife

FIAT 500e Coming To New Zealand

Fred Alvrez

FIAT 500e – Highlights

Produced in its birthplace, Mirafiori, Italy, the 500e has the same inherent Italian Design as its petrol Fiat 500 predecessor but its similarities end there. The 500e is equipped with a front-mounted electric motor, delivering 87kW with peak torque output of 220Nm and acceleration of 0-100km/h in 9 seconds.

New Zealand’s 500e will also feature the highest specification battery pack of 42 kWh, capable of 320km of driving range in a single full charge with a charging speed of 80% in 35 minutes, claims Fiat New Zealand.

An increase in size means the 500e is 56mm wider and 61mm longer than the petrol 500, making for a roomier interior. The round instrument hood invokes the typical 500 style, while the 7’’ TFT full digital cluster fills it with colour and technology. In a nod to its more sustainable nature, the 500e interior includes features made with SEAQUAL marine plastic, a raw material made from marine litter.

The 500e is available in two variants. The Pop, priced from $59,990, features comfort and convenience features as standard including attention assist, lane control, AEB, L2 autonomous driving, traffic sign recognition, heated seats, keyless entry-and-go, rear sensors and rear-view camera.

The interior includes FIAT monogram seats, body-coloured dash and a host of tech features including wireless apple car play/android auto, 10”25 infotainment system, 7” TFT display and a wireless charger.

The 500e Icon, priced from $64,990, also features a fixed glass roof, a more premium interior including ice-beige, FIAT eco-leather trim, and premium dashboard accents. Exterior enhancements include chrome exterior accents, infinity LED headlights and 17” diamond-cut alloy wheels. 360 parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise with lane centring and traffic jam assist round out the additional Icon offering.

Both models are available in a range of exterior colours Ice White, Ocean Green, Mineral Grey, Onyx Black, Rose Gold & Celestial Blue.

Sarah Williams, Fiat New Zealand Marketing Manager says “since launching globally the demand to bring the 500e to New Zealand has been incredibly strong. The Fiat 500e embodies the distinctive Fiat Cinquecento look and now offers unmistakable electric styling and driveability that we know New Zealanders will love. We are excited to finally bring the new sustainable phase of the Fiat brand to New Zealand.”

For those after something a little sportier, expect to see the newly launched Abarth 500e in New Zealand later in 2023 with more details to be confirmed closer to launch.

With two all-electric offerings coming next year, FIAT is moving towards the goal of being 100% electric in New Zealand in 2024.

Fiat New Zealand suggests that customers should register their interest for the 500e via the www.fiat.co.nz website before the vehicle’s arrival in showrooms early Q2 next year.

2023 Fiat 500e – Specifications

2023 Fiat 500e – Model Specifications

Fiat 500e POP

Fiat 500e ICON

In addition to / replacing POP

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