The Fiat 500e has brought a touch of Italian flair and iconic design to the Australian electric vehicle market. As an electrified version of the beloved city car, the 500e retains the compact size and retro charm of its predecessors but is built on a completely new, dedicated electric platform. This allows it to offer a surprisingly modern driving experience with zero emissions.

For the Australian market, Fiat has streamlined the offering to a single, highly-specified trim level known as the La Prima. This model is a premium-focused, three-door hatchback that comes packed with a long list of standard features, reflecting its position at the top of the range. Unfortunately, the more affordable “City Range” variant with a smaller battery, which is available overseas, is not currently sold in Australia.

The La Prima is powered by an electric motor delivering 87 kW of power and 220 Nm of torque, which is more than enough for zippy urban driving. This motor is paired with a 42 kWh (gross) lithium-ion battery, with a usable capacity of 37.3 kWh. This provides a WLTP driving range of up to 311 km, making it well-suited for city commuting and shorter trips. The 500e also supports fast-charging with a DC charging speed of up to 85 kW, allowing it to charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 35 minutes.

Despite its compact size, the 500e La Prima is a technological showcase. The interior is a significant upgrade from the petrol model, featuring a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, and a wireless charging pad. Other standard luxuries include a panoramic fixed glass roof, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a 4-star ANCAP safety rating, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.

In a move to increase its market appeal, Fiat Australia is currently offering the 500e at a reduced driveaway price of $38,990, a significant reduction from its original list price. This special offer, available until September 30, 2025, makes the stylish city car a much more competitive option against a growing number of affordable EVs. While the 500e may not be the most practical choice for long-distance travel, its unique charm, high level of equipment, and now more accessible price point make it a compelling and fashionable choice for urban drivers.