2021 Fiat 500 Electric: 199-Mile Range City EV With Style

The 2021 Fiat 500 Electric marks a bold evolution for Fiat’s iconic city car, transitioning from combustion engines to a fully electric powertrain while preserving its charming retro aesthetic. Larger than its predecessor yet retaining compact dimensions, this model delivers a surprising blend of refinement, efficiency, and fun, making it a standout in the A-segment EV market.

Design and Dimensions: Compact Yet Sophisticated

Fiat has cleverly upsized the 500 without diluting its personality. Measuring 61mm longer, 56mm wider, and 29mm taller than the previous generation, the new 500 optimizes its footprint for city parking while enhancing interior usability. The exterior boasts sleek LED headlights, clever flush door handles, and a distinctive rounded silhouette that nods to its heritage.

Available in hatchback and cabriolet variants, the design emphasizes premium touches like glossy black accents and customizable wheel options up to 17 inches. The cabrio’s retractable fabric roof adds open-air appeal, though it introduces slightly more wind noise at speed. Overall, the 500 Electric exudes a high-end vibe, feeling more upscale than typical budget city cars.

Powertrain and Performance: Smooth Electric Propulsion

At the heart lies a single electric motor paired with a 42kWh lithium-ion battery, producing 118bhp and 220Nm of torque. This setup propels the 1,365kg car from 0-60mph in 9.0 seconds, with a top speed of 93mph—adequate for urban dashes and motorway cruising. Instant torque ensures peppy acceleration, ideal for stop-start traffic.

Drivers can select modes like ‘Normal’ for balanced coasting or ‘Range’ for aggressive one-pedal braking via strong regenerative systems. Charging supports up to 85kW DC fast charging, achieving 0-80% in 35 minutes, while home AC charging takes about 4 hours for a full top-up. Real-world range hovers around 199 miles, impressive for the class and sufficient for daily commutes.

Driving Dynamics: City Star with Highway Competence

The 500 Electric shines in urban environments, where light steering and a short wheelbase enable nimble maneuvering around tight streets and parking spots. The suspension setup provides a supple ride, effectively ironing out potholes and speed humps for composed handling. Electric silence enhances refinement, with minimal road noise until higher speeds.

On motorways, it holds its own, maintaining pace with traffic and executing overtakes confidently. Adaptive cruise control (on higher trims) adds ease for longer trips, though light steering requires frequent corrections and wind noise builds around the A-pillars—more so on cabrios. Larger 17-inch wheels can firm up the ride over rough patches, but overall, it’s quieter and more planted than the old model.

• Urban agility: Instant torque and tight turning circle excel in cities.
• Highway stability: Settles into a refined cruise at 70mph.
• Ride comfort: Absorbs bumps well, though alloys impact low-speed plushness.

Interior Space and Quality: Premium Feel in a Pint-Sized Package

Step inside to a light, airy cabin with thoughtful details like Turin-inspired console motifs and sustainable seat fabrics made from 10% recycled ocean plastic. Front seats offer excellent support and a higher driving position for superior visibility. A flat floor from the battery pack eliminates the bulky tunnel, freeing central space with a handy storage box.

Rear seating suits occasional use for adults or regular for children, with acceptable legroom for the class but tight headroom. The boot measures modestly at 185 liters, expandable via folding seats, though it’s a noted limitation for families. Tech includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and connectivity options on upper trims. Hard plastics mar some areas, but the overall build surpasses previous Fiats.

Safety and Technology: Modern Features Standard

Safety is comprehensive, with seven airbags, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition as standard. Higher models add semi-autonomous driving aids like adaptive cruise. Practical touches include auto lights/wipers, gear shift prompts, and efficient climate control that maintains comfort in variable weather.

The infotainment is intuitive, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly. While some ergonomics—like button placement—could improve, the tech suite reduces driver workload, enhancing enjoyment.

Pricing and Ownership: Value in the EV Segment

Starting at around £24,995 post-grant (Icon trim), the 500 Electric undercuts many rivals while offering strong equipment levels. Running costs benefit from 3.1 miles/kWh efficiency and low maintenance. Warranty covers 3 years/60,000 miles, with an 8-year battery guarantee.

Pros outweigh cons for city dwellers: characterful style, solid range, and EV simplicity. Drawbacks like boot size and rear space limit versatility, but it excels as a trendy solo or couple’s runabout.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How far can the 2021 Fiat 500 Electric go on a single charge?

Official figures claim up to 199 miles, with real-world results close depending on conditions like weather and driving style.

Is the Fiat 500 Electric suitable for motorway driving?

Yes, it cruises comfortably at 70mph with adequate power for overtakes, though steering feels light.

What charging options does it support?

Up to 85kW DC for 35-minute 0-80% charges, plus 11kW AC for home use.

How does the interior compare to the old Fiat 500?

More spacious upfront with better materials and tech, but rear and boot remain compact.

Is it fun to drive?

Urban zip from instant torque makes it engaging in cities, with composed handling overall.

Verdict: A Compelling EV City Icon

The 2021 Fiat 500 Electric transforms the beloved city car into a viable EV contender. Its blend of heritage style, practical range, and unexpected refinement makes it ideal for urbanites embracing electrification. While not perfect for large loads or long-haul families, it sets a high bar for charm and competence in its class. Potential buyers will find it a stylish, stress-free step into electric motoring.