When the Fiat 500 was released to the public in 2006, it was a hit. Like the Mini Cooper, the 500 had a distinctive retro style that many loved. The subcompact coupe was fun to drive and cute to look at. A convertible soon followed, then even a mini-SUV version, the 500X, was introduced. Fiat even toyed with an electric version of the 500 in California and Oregon from 2013 to 2019. But as time went by, sales of the little 500 fell sharply and Fiat dropped some models. The original coupe was last available in 2019, leaving only the 500X in the lineup. Now, Fiat is back at it again, this time bringing back the coupe version of the 500 as an all-electric vehicle.
The 2024 Fiat 500e is an all-new version of the original electric 500e. It is slightly larger than its predecessor and will be available throughout the US. With a range of 149 miles, it’s not meant for the long haul, but rather for a few days of around-town driving.
The exterior of the 500e looks much like the 500 from 2006. It did pick up some modern touches like LED lighting at both front and rear and some flush electronic door handles, which is like a prerequisite for EVSs.
Inside though, there is a mix of tech and throwbacks. The dashboard trim, rounded gauge cluster, and two-spoke steering wheel are meant to evoke the original 1957 Fiat 500. More modern features include digital instruments, a 10.25-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration. And keeping things simple, physical climate controls are used.
Powering the 500e is a single permanent-magnet electric motor that powers the front axle and produces 117 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Obviously, that is not a lot of power, as 500e buyers won’t be chasing modern sports cars. With a curb weight of just under 3000 pounds, Fiat claims the 500e can reach 60 mph in just over 8 seconds before topping out at 94 mph. Not very fast, but I’m sure a lot faster than the original 1957 Fiat 500.
As stated, the 500e has a range of around 149 miles, meaning long-distance travel is not this car’s strong suit. But Fiat states the battery will charge from empty to 100 percent in six hours on a Level 2 charger with a 11.0-kW connection, and at its max DC fast-charge rate of 85 kilowatts, it will charge to 80 percent in 35 minutes. Even better, Fiat is including a Level 2 home charging station with the purchase of the 500e. You will still have to pony up the bucks for installation, but including the charging station with the car is a huge plus.
The 2024 Fiat 500e is available in three trim levels, all with strange names. The base 500 is the Inspi(Red). Starting at $32,500 it comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, a navigation system, wireless charging pad and red interior and exterior accents. Move up to the Inspired by Beauty, and the 500e gains heated front seats and a rose-colored exterior. The Inspired by Music is the top 500e and is dressed in black exterior with a cream interior and gets a JBL audio system. All come with the same motor and single speed transmission.
The tester was an Inspired by Beauty and carried with it a price tag of $37,595.
The 500e delivers a smooth ride and is relatively peppy. Sure, it isn’t as quick as other EVs, but overall acceleration is about average when compared to other cars. The brakes feel good and the 500e allows for one-pedal driving, with the regenerative braking system slowing the car down when you back off the accelerator. With the battery mounted below the cabin, the center of gravity is low thus reducing body roll and making the 500e handle well. There isn’t a lot of feedback from the steering, but it is quick and light, and along with its small footprint, makes parking a breeze.
For such a little car, the 500e is packaged well, albeit on the small side. While the driver and passenger are seated close together, there is plenty of room so you don’t feel truly cramped. The back seat is small – probably best used for utility or a single passenger on a short trip (then again, there are no long trips in the 500e). Cargo space can swallow about eight cubic feet of stuff – just right for a few backpacks or several bags of groceries – just not both at the same time.
When it comes to EVs, the Fiat 500e certainly is in a class all of its own. It has a short range and it isn’t very practical. But it has cute retro styling with a modern flair, it is fairly inexpensive (for an EV) and it comes with its own home charging station. And for an EV, it is fun to drive. The 500e is a car that doesn’t make much sense if it is someone’s sole means of transportation, but makes for a great second car, especially if that first car is a big SUV.
— Christopher A. Randazzo
By The Numbers:
2024 Fiat 500e
Base Price: $32,500.00
Price as Tested: $37,565.00
Engine: single permanent-magnet electric motor
Transmission: 1 – speed gearbox
Horsepower: 117 hp
Torque: 162 ft-lbs
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