Introducing the Fiat 500e Inspired by Los Angeles: A Californian Dream
Fiat is expanding its lineup of electric 500e models with the introduction of the Inspired by Los Angeles variant. This new addition features a range of trim-specific styling cues that set it apart from its counterparts, including an exclusive paint color and a higher price tag.
The standout feature of the Inspired by Los Angeles model is its unique paint color called Marine Layer Mist. This blue-ish gray hue was specifically chosen to pay homage to the coastal marine layer phenomenon that occurs in Los Angeles from May through June. This natural occurrence, where air masses of different temperatures and densities interact, gives the City of Angels a magical and complex feel. Adding contrast to the overall look are gray mirror caps.
Step inside the 500e Inspired by Los Angeles and you’ll find beige upholstery, a soft-touch steering wheel, and a Marine Layer Mist dashboard insert, all contributing to a luxurious and sophisticated interior. Fiat has also enhanced the audio experience by equipping this model with a seven-speaker sound system featuring an amplifier and a subwoofer. What makes it truly unique is the inclusion of four Virtual Venues, or sound modes, personally selected by renowned Italian singer Andrea Bocelli.
Under the hood, there have been no changes to the 500e’s drivetrain. Power is supplied by a single electric motor connected to a 42-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, delivering 117 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels. The 500e offers an impressive range of up to 149 miles on a full charge.
In terms of technology, the 500e Inspired by Los Angeles comes standard with Level 2 driving capabilities. This includes features such as adaptive cruise control and a lane-keeping system, providing assistance to the driver on select roads. While it falls short of being fully autonomous or hands-free, Fiat proudly emphasizes that the 500e is the only electric vehicle in its segment to offer Level 2 capabilities.
With all these premium features, it comes as no surprise that the pricing for the 500e Inspired by Los Angeles starts at $37,595, including a $1,595 destination charge. This is a significant departure from the 500e’s original intent as an affordable people’s car. To put it into perspective, the previously introduced 500e RED, announced in December 2023, starts at $34,095. Even the last-generation model, released in 2007 and still available as a new car in some European markets, has a starting price of €17,700 (approximately $19,200) in Italy.
The 500e Inspired by Los Angeles is produced in Turin, Italy, and is currently available for sale. Deliveries are slated to begin in the third quarter of 2024. As part of Fiat’s commitment to convenience and accessibility, every 500e model comes with a Level 2 home charger or charging credits that can be used within the Free2move charging network.
Looking ahead, Fiat has plans to expand the 500 range with the introduction of a hybrid model. However, it remains uncertain whether this particular model will be offered for sale in the United States. As Fiat continues to prioritize innovation and sustainability, it will be interesting to see how they adapt to an evolving market and cater to the demands of eco-conscious consumers.