What's New for 2013
The 2013 Fiat 500e is an all-new model.
Introduction
Striking while the iron is still hot on its subcompact 500 model, Fiat plans to introduce the 2013 Fiat 500e, an all-electric version of the small Italian carriage. A 24kWh lithium-ion battery supplies the juice to an electric motor capable of 111 horsepower and 147 pound-feet of torque. That's more power than the regular 500, and Fiat says the 500e should accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about 9 seconds.
In terms of range, the 500e should be able to make it about 87 miles on a charge, according to the EPA. That's about 14 miles more than the range of a 2012 Nissan Leaf. The 500e's efficiency is excellent as well, with a 29 kWh per 100 miles rating (or 116 MPGe in combined driving). The 500e can recharge in less than four hours on a 240-volt outlet.
Slight exterior enhancements distinguish the 500e from the standard model, but the EV rides on a revised suspension and chassis to support the additional weight of the battery and electrical system. Lest you think Fiat simply swapped an electric motor and battery into a regular 500, the automaker emphasizes that the 500e has spent 140 hours testing in a wind tunnel, refining front and rear fascia designs, wheels, side sills and underbody panels, and making it 13 percent more aerodynamically efficient than the gasoline model.
The Fiat 500e comes generously trimmed with standard 15-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, leatherette/cloth seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 50/50-split rear seat, Bluetooth, parking sensors, a 7-inch display for a TomTom navigation system (which can scan nearby charging stations and determine availability in real time) and a six-speaker Alpine audio system. Optional features include heated front seats, a sunroof and the e-Sport package that gives the 500e a blacked-out exterior and interior appearance.
Not surprisingly, the battery and associated electrical components eat into cabin space that is already at a premium. Rear legroom in the EV shrinks 4 inches compared to the standard model, while total cargo space is down from 30.2 cubic feet to 26.3 cubes.
The 2013 Fiat 500e goes on sale this summer, first in California, then expanded to other regions in a phased rollout. Check back for a full review of the 2013 Fiat 500e, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it becomes available.
Source: Edmunds
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