Fiat Launches Topolino: The Smallest Electric Car in Europe

Fiat has just launched the Topolino, the smallest electric car in Europe. The zero-emission heavy quadricycle will soon be available in European markets as the Italian version of the Citroen Ami and Opel Rocks-e, but with distinct styling.

The Topolino is named after the original 1936 Fiat 500, which was nicknamed Mickey Mouse. The new iteration is inspired by the 1957 Fiat 500, featuring round headlights, a canvas top, retro-styled wheel covers, a minty exterior shade, no side windows, and ropes instead of doors. The dashboard has fancy upholstery, and the seats have light-colored padding. Fiat is expected to release more photos of the EV soon.

The Topolino is a re-bodied Citroen Ami, but it differentiates itself more than the Opel Rocks-e, which is a case of rebadging. The EV will likely share the 8 hp (6 kW / 8 PS) electric motor and 5.5 kWh lithium-ion battery with its siblings, allowing a limited top speed of 45 km/h (28 mph) and a driving range of 43 miles (70 km).

Fiat describes the urban-focused EV as “made of joy, optimism, and fun,” suggesting it will give “mobility and freedom to even the youngest customers.” In some European countries, teenagers can legally drive heavy quadricycles from 14 years old or 16 years old depending on local legislation.

The launch of the Fiat Topolino is imminent, and it could become an instant hit if the pricing is right. The success of the Citroen Ami in Southern European markets bodes well for the new Fiat.