Fiat 500e launched in the UK

The pure-electric city car is available in a choice of two body styles - hatchback or convertible - and with two battery options on offer

The Fiat 500e has been launched, with the pure-electric city car set to start from less than £20,000 (inc. PiCG). Two battery options will be available across three trim levels.

A range of up to 199 miles on a charge is possible from the larger of the two batteries offered. Fiat will offer buyers a choice of a 42kWh or 24kWh battery, with the latter featuring a range of 115 miles on a charge.

Available in three trim levels - Action, Passion, and Icon - the Fiat 500e kicks off the range with Action featuring a 23.8 kWh pack, a 70kW electric motor, and charging capabilities of up to 11kW AC or 50kW DC.

The Fiat 500e Passion and Icon models are available with the 42kWh battery, and sees DC charging capacity boosted to 85kW for a reduced charge time. This sees a charge to 80% take a little over half an hour.

Fitted to all models are electric driving modes Normal, Range, and Sherpa. Range mode boosts brake energy recuperation to allow near ‘one-pedal’ driving, whilst Sherpa mode acts like an Eco setting, reducing power-drain functions and improving range.

Packed with safety and driver assistance kit, the 500e is available in both hatchback and convertible body styles in the UK. A 3+1 configuration - with a small rear door on one side for easier access to the back seats - is offered in left-hand drive markets.

Orders are now open for the new EV, and first deliveries are expected in March 2021. Prices start at £19,995 for the 500e hatchback 24kWh, and £23,495 for the first model available with the 42kWh battery. The convertible starts at £26,145 and £27,645 for 24kWh and 42kWh battery models respectively.