Fiat 600e: The Electric SUV That Brings Back a Classic Name

Fiat has begun the production of its new electric SUV, the 600e, at its plant in Tychy, Poland. The 600e is a modern and eco-friendly reinterpretation of the iconic Fiat 600, which was launched in 1955 and became one of the most popular cars in Europe. The 600e is also the first Fiat model to be built on the Common Modular Platform (CMP), a flexible architecture that can accommodate different types of powertrains, including electric and hybrid.

The Fiat 600e is designed to appeal to customers who are looking for a spacious, versatile, and stylish SUV that can offer a range of more than 250 miles (WLTP) on a single charge. The 600e is powered by a 54 kWh battery and a 154 hp electric motor that can deliver a top speed of 93 mph and a 0-62 mph acceleration in 9 seconds. The battery can be recharged up to 80% in less than 30 minutes using a fast charger.

The exterior of the 600e features a distinctive design that combines retro elements with modern touches. The front end is dominated by the circular LED headlights and the 600 logo above the grille, while the rear end features the Italian flag embossed on the bumper. The side profile is characterized by the muscular wheel arches and the roof rails that enhance the SUV look. The 600e is available in four colors inspired by the natural elements of Italy: orange (Sun), green (Sea), sand (Earth), and blue (Sky).

The interior of the Fiat 600e is spacious, comfortable, and technologically advanced. The dashboard is curved and elegant, with a two-spoke steering wheel and a push-button gear selector. The center console houses a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a connected navigation system with real-time traffic, parking, and charging station updates. The instrument cluster is digital and customizable, with a 7-inch display that shows relevant information such as speed, battery level, range, and driving mode.

The seats of the Fiat 600e are upholstered in synthetic leather or recycled fabric, depending on the trim level, and feature the Fiat monogram embroidered on them. The front seats are also adjustable, heated, and equipped with a massage function for extra comfort. The rear seats can accommodate three passengers or fold down to increase the boot space from 360 liters to 1,170 liters. The cabin also offers plenty of storage compartments and USB ports for both front and rear passengers.

The 600e is not only stylish and practical but also safe and smart. It comes with a range of advanced driver assistance systems that can provide level 2 autonomous driving, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, emergency braking, driver attention monitor, and voice activation. The 600e also features a keyless entry system, a wireless smartphone charger, a hands-free tailgate, automatic air conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic lights.

The Fiat 600e is expected to hit the European market by the end of 2023, with an estimated starting price of around $40,000. It will compete with other electric SUVs such as the Kia Niro EV, the Hyundai Kona Electric, the Peugeot e-2008, and the Jeep Avenger. Fiat hopes that the 600e will replicate the success of its smaller sibling, the Fiat 500e electric city car, which has become one of the best-selling EVs in Europe.

The Fiat 600e is an electric SUV that brings back a classic name from Fiat’s history and updates it for the modern era. It offers a combination of design, performance, efficiency, space, technology, and safety that makes it an attractive option for anyone looking for an eco-friendly and versatile vehicle. The Fiat 600e is more than just an SUV; it is a symbol of Fiat’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.