Fiat has officially announced that the upcoming version of the Fiat 500 will be the last one powered by a gasoline engine. This marks a significant shift for the iconic model, as stated by Olivier François, CEO of Fiat. According to Francois, the Fiat 500 is destined to become a symbol of electric mobility.
“For me, the 500 is electric; we have a perfect car with the electric powertrain. Like everyone, we thought the world would transition to electric vehicles more quickly,” François told Auto Express. This statement underscores Fiat’s commitment to electrification, seeing the 500 as an ideal candidate for an electric transformation.
An iconic future
Francois acknowledged the challenges faced in recent years, particularly the pandemic and the resulting shortage of components, which have slowed down the shift to electric vehicles in Europe. “We couldn’t foresee the arrival of COVID, the subsequent component shortages, and the fact that European buyers would move away from sustainable solutions,” he explained.
Despite the strong push towards electric vehicles, François noted that not all markets are ready for a complete switch to electric cars. This reality has led Fiat to develop a hybrid version of the 500. “Not all markets have the same needs. Our DNA includes a social relevance element, so we must adapt and respond wherever we go,” he said.
The hybrid Fiat 500 represents a compromise solution, catering to diverse global needs while still prioritizing sustainability. With new generations of batteries promising longer ranges and shorter charging times, the electric Fiat 500 could become an ecological and practical choice for a wide range of consumers.
Fiat’s clear inclination towards an all-electric future for the 500 demonstrates its commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. As the automotive industry evolves, the Fiat 500 is poised to lead the charge as a stylish and sustainable electric vehicle option.
