Gabriel Walker
Dec 05, 2023
Fiat is all set to make a comeback with its new electric car, the 500e. The car is a two-door hatchback that will be offered only in electric 500e guise. The car is powered by a 117-hp electric motor juiced by a 32.3-kWh battery pack.
This setup is already on sale in Europe, where it carries a driving range estimate of up to 199 miles per charge. The 500e retains its retro-modern appeal but with an updated exterior and interior that should help its stylish appeal.
What’s new for 2024?
The 500e is new for 2024 after taking a break from the US market since the 2019 model year. A production version is scheduled to bow at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show and will go on sale in the first quarter of 2024.
Pricing and which one to buy
It’s too early to guess what trim levels the 2024 500e will be offered in, but if it mirrors that of the 500X SUV, we should see an entry-level Pop trim and a stylish Sport. When we find out more about the 500e’s pricing and standard features, we'll update this story with those details and a recommendation on which one to buy.
EV motor, power, and performance
Fiat has not disclosed what will power the 500e when it goes on sale in North America, but it’s likely to use the higher-powered 117-hp electric motor from the European version. Front-wheel drive will likely be the only option and we’re not holding our breath for Tesla-like acceleration.
The last-generation 500e came with a 111-hp electric motor and needed 8.4 seconds to hit 60 mph in our testing. The new model should offer similar performance. When we get a chance, we’ll take the new 500e on a test drive and update this story with driving impressions.
Range, charging, and battery life
In other parts of the world, the 500e is offered with one of two battery packs, the larger of which offers up to 199 miles of driving per the European WLTP cycle’s estimates.
The market thinks that will be a difficult number to hit in real-world driving in America and expects an EPA range of closer to 150 miles per charge if Fiat offers that same battery pack in the US variant of the car.
The 500 hatchback features a 42kWh battery to offer a WLTP-certified range of up to 199 miles and is fitted with an 85kW fast charging system that can give an 80% charge in 35 minutes. The £26,995 price — after the government’s plug-in car grant — also includes the installation of a 7.4kW easyWallbox charger.
Conclusion
The Fiat 500e is a cute and compact electric car that is sure to turn heads. With its retro-modern appeal and updated exterior and interior, it is a car that is sure to appeal to a wide range of drivers. While we don't yet know what the pricing and standard features will be for the 2024 500e.
