Fiat has shown the much-anticipated 600e for the first time. It's a new electric crossover designed to sit in the range between the dinky 500 and 500e and the next-generation 500X.
400km range
Underneath, the 600e uses the same 'e-CMP2' platform as the likes of the Jeep Avenger and the Peugeot e-2008, so it gets the same 54kWh battery pack and 156hp electric motor driving the front wheels. Fiat says that gives it a one-charge range of more than 400km on the WLTP cycle (the e-2008 manages 406km, officially, for reference) and more than 600km if you stick to urban driving. As with all Stellantis Group models using this battery, the Fiat 600e can fast-charge at up to 100kW, giving you an 80 per cent charge in around 30 minutes. AC charging is at speeds of up to 11kW.
A hybrid version of the 600 will go on sale in 2024, but it's not confirmed yet if we'll get that model in Ireland.
Practical cabin
In the front of the cabin - which gets a minimalist single instrument binnacle, clearly inspired by the smaller 500e - Fiat claims that there is more than 15 litres of available storage space, making it one of the more practical cars in its segment. Look closely, and you can see the same iPad-style folding magnetic cover for the big storage bin in the centre console used by the Jeep Avenger. Meanwhile, the boot measures a fairly useful 360 litres.
On the outside, the 600e's styling is clearly also influenced by the 500e, as it uses the same headlights bisected by the leading edge of the bonnet. Mind you, the 600e gets distinct 'eyebrows' at the edges of those lights, giving the front end a more feminine look. You can specify it with wheels of up to 18-inch diameter, and amid the gloss black and chrome exterior details there's a neat little Italian flag built into the rear bumper.
According to Fiat, there are as many as 64 different interior colour and trim combinations, and at the top of the spec sheet, there's the option of 'Ivory' synthetic leather seats with a Fiat monogram and turquoise accents and three-stage heating.
Other equipment includes Velour floor mats, 40/60 split-fold rear seats, USB type A and type C sockets with a type C plug in the back, a wireless charger for smartphones and keyless entry with a proximity sensor.
Safety options include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, traffic stop-and-go control, autonomous emergency braking, a 360-degree parking camera and a speed limit assistant.
Range-topping versions
Although Irish specifications have yet to be confirmed, it's expected that standard equipment will include a hands-free power tailgate, electric windows, auto air conditioning, dusk and rain sensors, a six-speaker sound system, a 10.25-inch fully customisable infotainment screen with navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless, and a seven-inch digital cluster.
There should also be two range-topping models, badged as La Prima and (RED), the second one being in association with a prominent AIDS charity.
The 600e is also the first new Fiat to take on the company's recent promise not to make any more grey cars, and will be offered in four different colours which "Recall Italian beauty and natural landscapes: Sun of Italy, Sea of Italy, Earth of Italy, Sky of Italy."
Irish buyers should expect the 600 in time for the "241" registration plate in early 2024.