FIAT’s 125th Anniversary Celebration: A Vision for the Future
The historic Lingotto building in Turin recently hosted a monumental event—FIAT’s 125th anniversary “Smiling to the Future” ceremony. As one of the oldest automotive brands, founded on July 11, 1899, FIAT is set to embark on a promising new chapter. CEO Olivier Francois outlined the brand’s ambitious vision for the next decade, marking the event with the world premieres of the Fiat 500e Giorgio Armani and the Fiat Grande Panda, both symbolizing Italian excellence and FIAT’s return to the global mainstream market.
The celebrations also saw the opening of the Casa FIAT exhibition at the Pinacoteca Agnelli, tracing FIAT’s rich history and its connection to the Lingotto building. This grand event was streamed on demand, allowing enthusiasts worldwide to partake in the festivities.
A Grand Celebration in Turin
The “Smiling to the Future” ceremony at the Lingotto building was not just a milestone celebration but a prelude to a new era for FIAT. The event, available to watch here, was attended by international press, public institution representatives, and top Stellantis management, including John Elkann, Carlos Tavares, and Olivier Francois.
John Elkann, Chairman of Stellantis, remarked, “FIAT was born in 1899 out of a passion for progress. It represented freedom for millions and has continually sought solutions and believed in a bright future. We thank everyone who has been part of FIAT’s journey to becoming Stellantis, one of the largest car manufacturers globally.”
Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, added, “Celebrating 125 years in FIAT’s Turin home is a profound moment. FIAT, as a Stellantis flagship brand, brings Italian flair to our customers globally. It leads in several markets and drives the charge for clean, safe, and affordable mobility. We look forward to another 125 years of innovation and success.”
Olivier Francois, FIAT CEO, emphasized, “For 125 years, FIAT has been synonymous with social relevance, offering what customers truly need. Our future revolves around Italian design, global platforms, and local relevance, embodied by the Grande Panda. Our next decade will ensure the right offer for every customer, keeping the customer at the center of everything we do.”
The Heritage and Future of FIAT
On July 11, 1899, the “Società Anonima Fabbrica Italiana di Automobili – Torino” was founded at Palazzo Bricherasio. Today, FIAT connects its illustrious past to a bright future, celebrated with the global debut of the 500e Giorgio Armani—a refined, eco-sustainable vehicle that pairs Italian excellence with innovation.
The Grande Panda marks FIAT’s return to the global market, symbolizing a new era of inclusivity, ingenuity, Italian style, and a global spirit. The celebration also unveiled two new models, an SUV and a fastback, set to launch in the coming years.
Parade of Icons
The Turin celebrations concluded with a stunning parade of FIAT vehicles on the Lingotto building’s legendary track, showcasing the brand’s technological and historical legacy. FIAT’s strong international presence, coupled with its Italian heart and soul, was highlighted through this spectacular display.
Fiat 500e Giorgio Armani: A Masterpiece of Italian Craftsmanship
The collaboration between FIAT and Giorgio Armani, marking FIAT’s anniversary and Armani’s birthday, resulted in the 500e Giorgio Armani—a car that epitomizes Made in Italy. This limited edition combines the finest Italian design, style, and craftsmanship. The hatchback model features two unique colors: Dark Green Micinalised and Ceramic Greige, designed to reflect Armani’s taste and style.
The exterior design is minimalistic, with the GA logo on the wheels and elegant bi-tone anodized effects. The interiors boast chevron stitching and three-dimensional patterns, embodying classic tailoring techniques. The car is equipped with advanced technologies, including a premium JBL audio system and a range of up to 320 km in the WLTP combined cycle.
Grande Panda: FIAT’s New Global Model
The Grande Panda signifies FIAT’s comeback to the global mainstream market. It is designed based on three pillars: Italian design, global platform, and local relevance. Priced starting under €25,000 for the electric version, the Grande Panda offers innovative features like an integrated spiral charging cable, compact dimensions, and smart use of space.
Available in both electric and hybrid versions, the Grande Panda features a 44kWh battery and an 83-kW e-motor, providing over 320 km of range in the WLTP combined cycle. This model is ideal for urban mobility and family use, reflecting FIAT’s commitment to inclusivity and sustainability.
Casa FIAT: A Journey Through Time
The new Casa FIAT exhibition at the Pinacoteca Agnelli offers an immersive experience into FIAT’s history and its relationship with the Lingotto building. The interactive display covers various themes, including Car Design, Architecture, Society, and Kids, highlighting FIAT’s journey from its founding to the present day. The exhibition underscores FIAT’s rich heritage and its forward-looking vision, exemplified by the Grande Panda.
FIAT: A Partner of Turin 2024 Capital of Business Culture
In its 125th anniversary year, FIAT is proud to partner with “Turin 2024 Capital of Business Culture.” This initiative recognizes Turin’s manufacturing history and its ability to embrace future challenges, including ecological and digital transitions. FIAT will actively participate in the program, including the exhibition “Turin to the Future,” celebrating Turin’s industrial heritage and future prospects for entrepreneurship.
