Fiat 500e test bench | The return promises to be difficult

(Nice, France) It has been a long time since the Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino (FIAT) was on the radar of consumers here. Since the lively 500 (2011), none of his creations intended for the Canadian market have been desired. But Fiat intends to rebuild its image and reputation with the 500 – yes, it again – but by completely electrifying it. The objective is ambitious.

It is not the first time. A little over 10 years ago, Fiat also offered an electric version of the 500. This was intended only for California, under its anti-pollution regulations. Sergio Marchionne, then president of the firm, advised anyone not to buy it… “We lose $14,000 every time we assemble one. ” The times are changing.

Today, it’s not just California that is concerned about the air we breathe. Several American states (and Canadian provinces) have adopted similar rules to force manufacturers to offer zero-emission vehicles.

We can understand why the Fiat 500e (e for electric) is resurfacing. We can also legitimately doubt the desire of the North American subsidiary to support this model which, let us point out, has been traveling the European roads for several years already.

Moreover, after a fantastic commercial launch in Europe, the 500e no longer attracts as many crowds. As proof, the factory responsible for giving birth to it has, for the second time this year, been shut down to avoid any overproduction.

What fate will the North American market have in store for the little Italian? No one can say exactly because they don’t know the price. But the weak enthusiasm of the dealers contacted by The Press and the confidences collected from certain managers of the North American subsidiary of the Stellantis group suggest that this launch is of little importance. Moreover, a few weeks before its marketing, the Canadian management of the Stellantis group is still cloaked in silence regarding the prices, specifications and strategy with regard to this model. Between two media presentations in Europe, we rented a 500e to get an idea of ​​what Fiat has in store for us.

Not the same car

The platform that the 500 once shared with the Ford Ka is no longer relevant. The new technical architecture intended to only accommodate an electric propulsion unit now features a more voluminous bodywork. It is longer, wider and taller than before. Its wheelbase has also gained 2 cm.

The major difference is found on the passenger side with a third door which is reminiscent of the old BMW i3, Saturn SC and Hyundai Veloster. This configuration, called 3 +1 in Europe, completes a range which also consists of a classic two-door version (with tailgate) and an attractive convertible. For the moment, the Stellantis Canada communications team prefers to withhold any information on the nomenclature of this model expected in a few weeks…

Still, we had the opportunity to drive, to use the delicious expression of a colleague, this 500 3+1 which is equipped exclusively with the 42 kWh battery. In Europe, a 23.8 kWh battery is also in the catalog.

Fashion the hard way

Although more enveloped, the 500 retains this round face which makes you want to welcome it into your garage entrance. And this desire does not break its face against the doors.

A mixture of Latin and neo-retro makes sure to put us in a good mood despite many harsh and sonic plastics.

The atypical driving position (sitting high, offset pedals, limited clearance for the feet) will displease buyers who are over 1.80 m tall. Some will have other complaints to make. Like cushions that are too short and featureless and invite you to stop often. That said, this criticism must be qualified. In the past, the 500 sold in North America was entitled to seats that were very different from those offered on the European market.

The presence of a third side door facilitates access for (young) children. Adults ? Space is limited there. Just like the volume of the trunk, which however has the merit of offering a flat floor.

The city as a playground

Under the hood of the version powered by the 42 kWh battery, the electric propulsion produces the equivalent of 118 hp and allows you to reach 100 km/h in 9 seconds. And you can even make your tires squeal when starting. This is one of the only excitements you will feel behind the wheel. The steering has the merit of making maneuvers easier, but its lightness could make some motorists apprehensive when this Fiat places the city in its rear-view mirrors. The chassis quickly builds confidence and demonstrates reassuring stability. When driving, there is a perception of fluidity. The suspensions handle the irregularities of the road rather firmly and the rolling noises deceive electric worshipers who claim that electric vehicles are real sanctuaries.

This little Italian offers three operating modes: Normal, Range and Sherpa. In Range, energy recovery when lifting the foot is maximum, but this still does not allow us to claim that this Fiat allows one-pedal driving. As for Sherpa mode, not only does it limit the speed to 80 km/h, but it also suspends the activities of all energy-consuming equipment. Some motorists will consider that this mode is likely to be used frequently. Depending on the battery, the presumed range of the 500e ranges between 249 and 322 km.

Share your experience

The Press will soon publish the test of the following vehicles: Cadillac Lyriq, Lucid Air, Porsche Cayenne, Subaru Crosstrek and Toyota Tacoma. If you own one of these vehicles or are awaiting delivery, we would love to hear from you.