Fiat has announced that it is preparing to introduce its compact micro-electric vehicle, which shares its core design with the Citroën Ami electric, to the American market after its success in Europe.
Like Citroën, they named the car after a previous successful model, reaching into Fiat’s history to bring back the name Topolino.
The actual arrival time and pricing haven’t been confirmed yet, but in Europe, the Topolino starts at €9,890 (approximately $11,500 USD). Note that these values won’t necessarily reflect the U.S. pricing, considering several factors, primarily tariffs imposed during the Trump administration. Speaking of arriving, be prepared to be passed by classic 2CV owners who have the ability to better it’s top speed of 40 mph.
Like the Ami electric, the Topolino is classified in Europe as a quadricycle, offering a range of about 75 kilometers (46 miles) on a full charge, powered by a 5.4 kWh battery and an 8 hp electric motor.
Fiat aims to attract urban drivers with its small size and distinctive style, though its acceptance among U.S. consumers remains uncertain. The “ute” version of the Topolino’s twin, the Citroën My Ami Buggy—a doorless, playful roundabout—sold out in minutes when it launched in June 2022.
That kind of response suggests that Fiat may also be inclined to import a similar version they call Dolcevita—an homage to the distinctive open Jolly, beach-ready version of the classic Fiat 500.
In either case, beaches and speed-limited adult retirement communities would be the most likely markets. You certainly would not want to be on roads where SUVs and pickup trucks are barreling down on you. Better to transport it in the truck-bed of your Stellantis RAM.
For those in the U.S. who have wanted to own Citroën’s cute little Ami electric since it was introduced back in 2020, you can have your wish if you are willing to swap out the Fiat-badged front and rear panels with those from an Ami (they are interchangeable). And if you would like to go retro, you could put on the HY Van panel kit that is available from Caselani in Italy.
