Stellantis, the fourth-largest car company in the world, has unveiled an electric SUV known as the Fiat 600e, with driving range of up to 400 kilometres and an overseas price starting from an equivalent of $A60,000.
The new electric SUV marks Fiat’s return to the B-segment under the umbrella of its new parent company Stellantis, which was formed in 2021 after the merger of Italian–American conglomerate Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and the French PSA Group.
Measuring 4.17 metres in length, seating for 5, and “best in class” front storage, the Fiat 600e boasts an electric range of more than 400km (WLTP combined cycle) – although Stellantis claims that this number could stretch out to 600km in the city when measured using the WLTP urban cycle.
A 54kWh lithium-ion battery can be charged with a 100kW fast charger which is capable of charging the battery to 80% in less than half an hour. The 600e also comes with an 11kW on board charger and a Mode 3 cable for charging at home or in public, which can guarantee charge in less than 6 hours.
With engine output of 11kW, the Fiat 600e can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 9 seconds, and three driving modes – eco, normal, and sport – allows drivers the option to drive the car their way.
The compact SUV also offers a generous boot with 360 litres of load capacity, while “its exterior and interior design perfectly embodies the Italian beauty and Dolce Vita philosophy.”
Two models will be available, the top-of-the-range La Prima which Stellantis says will offer “100% style, tech, and comfort to ensure an immersive Italian Dolce Vita experience” and is set to be available in four different colours – Sun of Italy, Sea of Italy, Earth of Italy, and Sky of Italy.
The more accessible Fiat (600e)RED is the company’s effort to provide “those young customers looking for an ethical and eco-friendly mobility solution” with a car that they’ll love.
The Fiat (600e)RED will build on the company’s original partnership with the Product Red brand, stylised as (RED), which fights AIDS and ensures preventable and treatable disease is preventable and treatable for everyone.
The Fiat 600e also features a host of safety and assistance features, offers level 2 assisted driving, and offers a number of other handy features including hands free power liftgate, all-powered windows, and dusk and rain sensors.
Up front, a 6-speaker sound system and 10.25” fully customisable radio with Navi, CarPlay, and Android Auto wireless are paired with a 7” digital cluster and connected services.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.