In a constantly changing global mobility market, there are those who dream about a better future and those who take concrete steps towards a more sustainable and responsible tomorrow. FIAT has proved that the future is already here with the unveiling of its new family of Panda-inspired concepts.
The first new product will be revealed next July, followed by the launch of a new vehicle every year until 2027. The new set of models has been designed to conquer the streets of the world and complete the brand’s line-up. Thanks to Stellantis, FIAT has access to a new global platform, on which it has added its distinctive brand of Italian creativity: a recipe combining beauty and simple solutions.
The new global game was announced today in a video—available at this link—in which Olivier Francois, FIAT CEO and Stellantis Global CMO, presents the Brand’s forthcoming launches from Italy’s very own “Geneva”, using a cheerful Panda: the model that has played a big part in the way we experience the automobile for more than forty years. This symbol of Italian creativity has inspired the new family of concepts.
Olivier Francois stated: “FIAT is a global brand with 1.3 million cars sold last year and solid leadership in many parts of the world. We are in a global game and our next step will be to transition from local products to a global offer that can benefit all of our customers everywhere in the world. We are excited to share this glimpse into our future; a very near future, actually, since the first car will be presented in 4 months during the brand’s 125th anniversary celebration. That car will then be followed by 1 new model every year.”
The new cars will share the same philosophy – Functionality should never exist without Fun – and the same technology – a single global platform where new models can be manufactured on a local relevance basis. Wherever the new models are created, they can be produced in any part of the world and reach customers everywhere. The unique multi-energy platform will also allow the next FIAT models to be equipped with all types of powertrain (electric, hybrid and ICE). Furthermore, the new family will feature an efficient use of space together with sustainable materials. Each of the new models will be a unique and original interpretation of the inclusive, accessible, and ingenious spirit that has allowed the brand to create vehicles with modular interiors, unique looks, and bold personalities.
FIAT is taking on the challenge of producing more sustainable and affordable cars with its “less is more” approach, removing redundant parts and reducing polluting materials such as chrome, alloys, leather, and the foams in seats; plus, there is a renewed focus on aerodynamic performance, as can be seen in the fastback concept, and on the “modularity” inherent in FIAT’s Italian ingenuity. The latter is favored by a transversal platform and a shared use of up to 80% common parts depending on the models—such as the interiors—resulting in a more efficient manufacturing, and benefits for the customers, such as affordability and distinctiveness.
City Car
The first concept in the video is the new City Car. Bigger than the current Panda, a sort of “Mega-Panda”, its design was also inspired by the brand’s birthplace: the iconic Lingotto building in Turin with its famous rooftop test track. FIAT’s designers were inspired by some of the Lingotto’s special features when creating the new design language: including structural lightness, space optimization and brightness. Meanwhile, the oval shape of the “La Pista 500” track on the roof made its mark on some of the aspects of the new model’s interiors: from the dashboard to the display and seats.
Moreover, FIAT is putting a special emphasis on the use of sustainable materials, including recycled plastics and bamboo fabrics. The brand also aims to remove some of the barriers to a more sustainable mobility, including making plugging and unplugging easier with a “self-winding cable”. The high driving position and robust design make this city car the perfect ally for customers all over the world, especially in crowded urban environments. But, at the same time, it offers roominess and versatility for family weekend trips and holidays.
Pick-Up
The pick-up is the second concept which appears in the video. FIAT is the market leader in South America and the Strada pick-up is the bestselling vehicle on the Brazilian market. Moving forward, FIAT is certain that this type of vehicle can replicate its success at a global level, even in Europe. FIAT’s new pick-up concept puts really the fun into functionality and responds to the global rediscovery of free time as value for people. Fun and practicality are sure to spread throughout the world with this model. This vehicle blends the concept of a pick-up with the functionality of an LCV and the comfort of a SUV in a size that is suitable to urban environments all over the world. Outdoor activities are more than hobbies, and this pick-up is perfectly designed to get the most out of one’s lifestyle.
Fastback
An heir to two of the Brand’s biggest hits—the Fiat Fastback in Brazil and the Fiat Tipo in the Middle East and Africa— this fastback aims to follow in their footsteps and establish itself at a global level in Latin America, the Middle East and Africa, and even Europe. This concept is made on the same modular platform and features a sporty flair. The Fastback is proof that FIAT could improve its sustainable commitment without giving up on performance: the dynamism of the silhouette and the really aerodynamic performance offers lower consumption and additional modernity and youthfulness than many SUVs.
SUV
The fourth concept in the video is a spacious family SUV, a sort of “Giga-Panda”. In line with FIAT’s role as a pioneer of accessible, innovative, and sustainable mobility, the vehicle is yet another confirmation of the special emphasis the brand is putting on the needs of family transport.
FIAT’s SUV concept meets customers’ ultimate needs in terms of safety, versatility, and design, bringing roominess and robustness to families all over the world.
Camper
The last concept presented is the ultimate do-it-all vehicle, as it features the new dolce vita style and reconnects people to each other and nature. This concept pays homage to the “Fun-ctionality” of the Panda from the 80s, recalling the versatility of a car that was made for the city with the features of a SUV and the soul of a trusty companion.
