In a burgeoning electric vehicle market, the Fiat 500e grabs attention, combining iconic design with modern electric technology. As Fiat's first fully electric car, it builds on the esteemed Italian brand's legacy of stylish, compact vehicles while delivering an efficient and enjoyable driving experience.
Performance and efficiency
The Fiat 500e is powered by a 116 bhp electric motor, offering responsive and zippy performance, ideal for urban environments. It accelerates from 0-62 mph in just nine seconds, and its compact size makes it perfect for navigating tight city streets. The 500e offers different driving modes too: Normal, Range and Sherpa. Range mode maximises energy efficiency, while Sherpa mode optimises remaining battery life, ensuring you reach a charging point when needed.
Running costs
One of the most appealing aspects of the Fiat 500e is its low running costs. As an electric vehicle, it produces zero CO2 emissions, making it exempt from road tax until 2025 while offering significant savings for company car drivers. Its 42 kWh battery means you can expect a range of up to 199 miles on a single charge, more than sufficient for daily commuting and city driving. Charging at home is straightforward and inexpensive, especially with off-peak electricity rates. For those on the go, the 500e supports fast charging, allowing an 80% charge in just 35 minutes.
Design
The Fiat 500e’s design combines heritage with modernity. The exterior retains the retro charm of the classic Fiat 500, with smooth lines and distinctive round headlights. However, it’s updated for the electric era with features like flush door handles and a lack of exhaust pipe, showcasing its green credentials. Inside, the 500e is surprisingly spacious for a city car, with a well-designed cabin that maximises available space. Front seats offer ample room, while rear seats are best suited to shorter journeys for full-size passengers – or longer journeys with smaller passengers. What’s more, boot space is sufficient for everyday needs, and whenever more cargo capacity is required, the car’s rear seats can be folded down.
Technology
The Fiat 500e is equipped with advanced technology, enhancing every drive. The cabin’s centrepiece is a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This intuitive set-up offers crisp graphics and responsive controls, ensuring you stay connected at all times. Additionally, a digital instrument cluster provides essential driving information, including battery status and navigation directions, right in your line of sight.
Competitor comparisons
When compared to other small electric cars like the MINI Electric and the BYD Dolphin, the Fiat 500e holds its own remarkably well. While the MINI Electric offers a fun driving experience, it falls short in terms of range, crucial for practical city use. The BYD Dolphin may offer a longer range but lacks the Fiat 500e’s charm and heritage. Indeed, the 500e strikes a perfect balance between style, performance and practicality, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an electric vehicle that stands out from the crowd.
Contact us
To experience the Fiat 500e for yourself, contact BS Marson today to make your test drive appointment.
