Top 10: Facts about the new 2021 Fiat 500

While some manufacturers are abandoning the city car segment, Fiat has just unveiled an all-new version of the 500. Here are ten things worth knowing about it:

1. Electricity is the sole power source

Clearly, this is the most significant difference versus the current model. An electric motor with an output of 116 bhp (87 kW / 118 PS) is supplied by a 42 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

2. Range seems impressive

Fiat is a bit vague on this, but a WLTP range of “up to” 199 miles (320 kilometres) has been quoted. The measure employed to achieve that distance – either lower-speed driving only or the more realistic Combined cycle – remains unknown.

Nevertheless, a selection of three driving modes should help with energy management: ‘Normal’ is, well, normal; ‘Range’ increases regenerative deceleration so one-pedal operation becomes possible; ‘Sherpa’ tries to ensure that a destination is reached by stifling acceleration, restricting the maximum speed to 50 mph (80 km/h) and deactivating the climate control and heated front seats.

3. Recharging times can be short

As standard, the 500 is able to cope with inputs of up to 85 kW. Consequently, when using a public fast charging facility, a flat battery can be replenished to 80% capacity in 35 minutes. If that’s too long, then plugging-in for five minutes allows another 30 miles (50 kilometres) to be travelled.

Alternatively, an Easy Wallbox has been developed for domestic use. In 3 kW guise professional installation isn’t required, but upgrading to the better 7.4 kW device permits a full recharge in around six hours.

4. Performance is rapid enough

As with most electric cars, acceleration is very decent. The sprints from rest to 31 mph (50 km/h) and 62 mph (100 km/h) take 3.1 and 9.0 seconds respectively, for example. Top speed is sensibly limited to 93 mph (150 km/h).

5. A comprehensive suite of driver aids is available

Thanks to various technologies including Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Intelligent Speed Assist and Lane Centring, the 500 is capable of ‘Level 2’ autonomous driving.

In addition, an array of eleven sensors provides a 360° ‘drone view’ of the car when parking or manoeuvring.

6. The styling looks familiar

From a design perspective, the current retro-inspired 500 has aged extremely well. Therefore, Fiat’s decision to not mess with such a successful formula is understandable.

However, a totally unique platform means that the dimensions and proportions are subtly altered. Overall length and width are both up by 6 cm (2.3”), the wheelbase gets a 2 cm (0.8”) stretch and the wheels themselves are larger.

7. Assembly will take place in Italy

At the Mirafiori plant in Turin, to be precise. For the time being, Fiat has only revealed the convertible, but a hatchback is going to be the other member of the range.

8. Orders are already being accepted

Specifically, customers can now reserve a 500 Convertible La Prima. This special launch edition is distinguished by a ‘monogram’ soft top, 17” diamond-cut alloys, full LED headlights and some extra chrome trim pieces.

The luxurious interior boasts eco-leather upholstery, as well as a 7” TFT instrument display and a 10.25” touchscreen for the UConnect 5 infotainment and navigation system. There’s a choice of Celestial Blue, Ocean Green or Mineral Grey paintwork, and the first deliveries are expected in either late 2020 or early 2021.

9. Prices are high

After deducting the government’s £3,500 Plug-in Car Grant, the aforementioned La Prima costs from £29,000 (on the road) in the UK. To put that amount into perspective, an entry-level petrol 500 can be purchased for £12,665.

10. The ‘old’ combustion-engine 500 remains on sale

Fiat intends to continue producing the current 500 in Poland. Indeed, the recent introduction of a mild-hybrid powertrain demonstrates that it’s still receiving important updates, despite being almost thirteen years old.

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