Stellantis, the parent company of Chrysler, announced the launch of the Fiat Topolino, a small electric vehicle that resembles the Fiat 500 but is classified as a quadricycle. Priced at $13,995, the Topolino can reach speeds of 19 mph and has an electric range of up to 46 miles.
A conversion kit can increase its top speed to 25 mph, making it compliant for use on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or lower, with a destination fee of $990 bringing the total to $14,985. Produced in Morocco, the Topolino will be available in limited quantities this year in both hardtop and soft-top convertible models.
Fiat brand CEO Olivier François emphasized that the Topolino signifies a new direction for the brand in the U.S., focusing on a joyful and simple mobility experience. This launch follows a period of declining sales for Fiat in the U.S., where the brand sold only about 1,300 vehicles last year, down from 43,772 in its first full year in 2012.
The introduction of the Topolino may reflect a growing interest in smaller, more efficient vehicles in the U.S. market, especially after discussions about small 'Kei' cars with former President Trump. However, the success of the Topolino will depend on consumer acceptance of small cars, which have historically struggled in the American automotive landscape