Fiat has unveiled a new car-interior concept that draws inspiration from its iconic Lingotto factory in Turin, Italy. The futuristic cockpit is set to shape the brand’s next two electric cars, which are expected to be revivals of the Panda and Punto models. The oval theme of the interior design is a nod to the shape of the factory’s rooftop test track, known as La Pista 500. The steering wheel features an integrated speedometer and gear display, while the swivelling centre console and mesh dashboard also share the oval shape.
The rectangular infotainment touchscreen stands proud of the dashboard and displays the original Fiat wordmark, similar to the concrete sign atop the Palazzina building at Lingotto. The unconventional arrangement for rear seating, which features a hammock in place of a traditional bench, is unlikely to make it into production but signals that Fiat is exploring ways to make cars lighter and cheaper.
Fiat CEO Olivier François has previously stated that the brand is committed to a future line-up focused on small cars. The Lingotto-inspired interior concept reflects this vision, with a focus on lightness and space. François said that the Lingotto and its rooftop track are such landmarks that they deserve to become design markers. He added that their characteristics have inspired Fiat designers to trace the lines of future Fiat models.
The Lingotto site is central to Fiat’s history, having opened in 1923 as the second-largest car factory in the world, behind only Ford’s River Rouge complex in Michigan, US. The five-floor building featured an upward-spiralled assembly line, with each level hosting a different stage of production, ending with a test drive on the rooftop. Various Fiat group cars were built at Lingotto until 1982, including the 500 ‘Topolino’ and its post-war successor, as well as the Lancia Delta.
After production ceased, the Lingotto factory was converted into a retail and culture complex, hosting art exhibitions, shops, cafés, and a hotel. It recently hosted the unveiling event for the Abarth 500e. The Lingotto-inspired interior concept is a tribute to the factory’s rich history and its contribution to Fiat’s success.
The Lingotto site has inspired several new interior product markers, according to François. The oval shape of La Pista 500 has been incorporated into the design, while the façade, with the lightness of its windows, will also become a distinctive signature of future models. François looks forward to launching the Lingotto-inspired models in a year’s time.
The Lingotto-inspired interior concept is a bold move by Fiat as it seeks to establish itself as a leader in the electric car market. The brand’s commitment to small cars and its focus on lightness and space reflect a growing trend in the automotive industry. As consumers become more environmentally conscious and seek more sustainable modes of transportation, car manufacturers are responding by developing smaller, lighter, and more efficient vehicles. The Lingotto-inspired interior concept is a testament to Fiat’s commitment to innovation and its determination to stay ahead of the curve.
