Table of Contents
Design and Platform
Fiat has taken its iconic 500 silhouette and given it an electric makeover without losing the charm that made the original a cult favourite. The new model sits on a dedicated platform that keeps the classic proportions but adds the space needed for a 42‑kWh battery under the floor. The result is a car that feels familiar yet feels more modern.
Exterior details stay true to the 500 heritage. The front still sports the signature “eyebrows” of the headlights, now three‑dimensional and more pronounced, while the absence of a grill is a practical nod to the electric powertrain. Chrome accents echo the original, and a subtle “La Prima” badge on the rear quarter panel signals the special edition status.
Inside, the cabin is surprisingly airy. A low centre console with a roll‑back armrest keeps the space open, and a small sunroof adds light. The layout is simple: a rectangular infotainment screen, a digital instrument cluster, and a handful of physical buttons for climate control, cruise control and the steering‑wheel gear selector.
Interior and Practicality
The 500E’s hatchback offers 195 L of boot space, which expands to 550 L when the rear seats are folded. While the space is modest, it is adequate for two adults and a modest amount of luggage. A tiny parcel shelf, the smallest seen in any car, sits in the rear window but is not attached to the body, making it a convenient spot for small items.
Practicality is a mixed bag. The car is a strict two‑seater; the rear seats do not fold flat, so the boot can only be used for short trips. The battery pack and motor control unit occupy a large portion of the under‑floor area, leaving little room for spare parts or a spare tyre. The charging port is located on the right side of the rear, a convenient spot for reversing into a charger.
Connectivity is generous for a small car. A wireless charger sits in the centre console, and there are USB‑A, USB‑C and a 12‑V socket on the dash. The door pockets hold a refillable bottle, and a small glove box provides additional storage.
Performance and Range
The 500E delivers 116 bhp and 220 Nm of torque, which is available instantly from the electric motor. The top speed is about 93 mph and the 0‑62 mph sprint takes roughly nine seconds. The car feels nimble in city traffic, with a light weight of under 1.4 t thanks to the 42‑kWh battery.
Official WLTP figures put the range at 193 miles, but real‑world tests show about 147 miles on a full charge. Only 37 kWh of the battery is usable, so the usable range is roughly 110 miles between charges if you keep the battery between 10 % and 90 %. Fast charging is modest; the car does not reach 80 % quickly, making long trips less convenient.
The driving experience is described as “nippy” and “chuckable.” The suspension is modern and absorbs bumps well, though it can feel a bit soft on rough roads. Braking is effective both with and without regeneration, and the steering feels responsive.
Who Should Buy It?
Priced from £20,000, the 500E is a strong competitor against other small electric cars such as the Renault Zoe and the Hyundai Ioniq N. Its single battery size keeps the price low, but buyers who need more range may find the 150‑mile real‑world range limiting.
The car shines as a second vehicle or a daily driver for city dwellers who can charge at home. Its small footprint, low running costs and playful styling make it a pleasant choice for short commutes and errands. Those who rely on fast charging or long‑distance travel may want to look elsewhere.
Overall, the Fiat 500E offers a charming, affordable electric option for people who value style and city practicality over long‑range capability.