Fiat has confirmed it is launching two version of the new 2024 Abarth 500e, with the 500e and 500e Turismo. Both feature a fully electric powertrain.
When the modern Fiat 500 was launched, it was an absolute hit, especially in various parts of Europe. However, it has been around now in essentially the same shape since it launched way back in 2007.
To ensure the pint-sized Italian remains modern and relevant, Fiat announced the 500e in 2013, switching to electric power, and then the Abarth 500e ‘Scorpionissima’ edition in 2022. Both the new 500e and 500e Turismo will become regular models, and available in hatch and cabrio form featuring a 42.kWh battery.
This provides power for the front-mounted electric motor that generates 114kW and 235Nm. That might not seem like much but remember this is only a micro hatch, and Abarth claims 0-100km/h in a fun-filled 7.0 seconds.
With a full charge the battery supplies enough energy to travel 265km on the official combined cycle. The system also supports fast-charging at up to 85kW, which means going from 0-80 per cent charge requires around 35 minutes, at that power rate.
As standard the new models come with a 10.25-inch touch-screen media interface running FCA’s Uconnect operating system – with ‘Performance Pages’ to play with – while the driver views a 7.0-inch TFT gauge display.
Stepping up to the Turismo trim line adds special exterior and interior touches, including 18-inch alloy wheels (up from the standard 17s), along with Alcantara upholstery highlights and Acid Green Scorpion logos.
The Turismo also gets a JBL sound system with seven speakers and an eight-channel amplifier. Abarth says the system does not have a major impact on boot space or intrude on interior room.
Drivers can toggle through three unique driving modes, including Turismo mode for smooth acceleration, and Scorpion Street mode for peak performance with optimised regenerative braking, and then a Scorpion Track mode for absolute performance.
In Australia, the regular Fiat 500e electric hatch is set to launch during the middle of this year. This Abarth version is scheduled to arrive by the end of this year, according to a CarExpert report. Prices and final local specs are yet to be confirmed.
