500X

Make
Fiat
Segment
SUV

Stellantis' full-year financial result presentation revealed that Fiat will introduce two all-new EVs in the second half of 2023. This news is especially pertinent to the US market, as the Italian automaker plans to introduce the all-electric 500e locally in 2024.

We initially thought the 500e was too small for the local market. Fiat stopped selling the ICE 500 in the USA in 2019 purely because there was little to no interest. But considering the increasing demand for more affordable electric vehicles, Stellantis obviously believes there is an audience for the 500e in the USA.

With that in mind, we believe Stellantis will also import any larger models Fiat may produce. Fiat currently only sells the 500X in the USA, and we can't think of a single reason to buy it.

Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares didn't name the two EVs it will introduce, but there are various rumors about what they may be.

One will likely replace the Fiat Punto, which is basically the Italian Ford Fiesta. If sold locally, it will compete directly with the Chevrolet Bolt and Nissan Leaf. Stellantis will build the electric Punto on the same platform as multiple award-winning Peugeot e-208. The electric 208 uses a single electric motor producing 154 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, powered by a 51 kWh battery. According to the European WLTP testing, its range is 225 miles.

The second model's name is in dispute, but a Cross Panda replacement makes the most sense since crossovers are so hot right now. Other outlets suggest the Fiat 600 name might be revived, but sticking with the Panda name makes more sense.

The modern Panda has been a smash hit since its introduction in 2003. In many ways, the Mk3 Panda was ahead of its time. Fiat identified the emerging compact SUV segment long before any other manufacturer.

A platform for the Panda already exists. The CMP is the same platform the Jeep Avenger uses, which will not be sold in the USA. Americans won't take kindly to a compact Jeep EV, but an electric Fiat Panda will appeal to the younger early-adopter audience.

The Avenger is also sold with ICE powertrains in Europe, making it the perfect next-gen Panda platform. With the Panda being so popular, we don't think Fiat would go full EV immediately, instead making the most out of the few years it has left before the new European combustion legislation kicks in.