Drop Top Disappointment? New Fiat 500e Costs $42,000 In Italy, Takes 9 Sec To Hit 62 MPH

Yesterday, we brought you pictures of the new Fiat 500e and now we’re following up with some specifications.

While the car isn’t slated to be introduced until tomorrow, Quattroruote says the vehicle rides on a unique platform and is slightly larger than its predecessor. Length and width are both up by 2.4 inches (60 mm), while the wheelbase reportedly grows 0.8 inches (20 mm).

Of course, the biggest change is the powertrain as the new 500 is electric-only. A 42 kWh lithium-ion battery pack resides beneath the floor and feeds an electric motor that develops 117 hp (87 kW / 118 PS). This results in leisurely acceleration as it reportedly takes 9 seconds to hit 62 mph (100 km/h). Keeping the throttle pinned will eventually result in a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h).

Also Read: All New, All-Electric 2021 Fiat 500e Drops Top As Well As Internal Combustion Units

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In terms of range, the 500 can travel 199 miles (320 km) on a single charge in the WLTP cycle. When the battery is depleted, it can reportedly be replenished in approximately six hours using a 7.4 kW wallbox. With an 85 kW rapid charger, drivers can get an 80% charge in just 35 minutes.

The model is slated to offer three different driving modes including a normal mode and another that allows for one pedal operation. The third and final mode is reportedly called Sherpa and it appears to be a last ditch resort to eke out some extra mileage when the battery is low. As part of this effort, Sherpa mode reportedly limits the top speed to just 50 mph (80 km/h).

On the tech front, there appears to be a new 10.3-inch Android-based infotainment system. This suggests the model has the new Uconnect 5 system.

Full details will be announced shortly, but the Italian press says the 500 will be launched in Italy “next summer” and initially offered as a limited edition 500 La Prima variant that starts at €37,900 ($42,328 / GBP33,064). Only 500 units will be available and they’ll reportedly be equipped with eco-leather upholstery, a numbered badge and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Mainstream models will eventually follow and the car will be offered as a hatchback and convertible. However, it won’t immediately replace the current 500 as the ICE model will reportedly remain for sale for a “few more years.”