Fiat Topolino EV: A Microcar Designed For Our Expanding Defined Community Times

Tucked off to the side in the Stellantis stand at AutoMobility LA (Press Day at the LA Auto Show) was a first time preview of this EV microcar defined community run-a-bout. The Fiat Topolino quadricycle - first introduced in Italy side-by-side with the 600E on July 4th, 2023 - was designed for a broad audience living in defined spaces, including younger customers, families, and city enthusiasts The Topolino is produced in two models - pictured is the *Dolce Vita* open cockpit configuration. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2024)

Fiat Topolino EV: A Microcar Designed For Our Expanding Defined Community Times

Ahhhhh, the microcar - an answer to bringing fun and a spirit of celebration of motor culture to a new age in mobility.

As much of our population is aging and moving into planned communities, or younger generations are looking for easy solutions in EV mobility that are much more civil and useful than a scooter or electric bicycle, or holiday destinations with tight and charming footprints as found in Southern California's Catalina Island, the microcar seems to be a perfect solution. So says Hoofddorp, Netherlands based automobile manufacturing aggregator Stellantis with its introduction of the Fiat Topolino.

The good life becomes an exposé with the EV Fiat Topolino microcar. Image Credit: MotoriQuotidiano (July 2023) 

This edited and posted from a press release produced for Mexico City with the introduction of the Topolino outside of Italy ...

**Stellantis Mexico: New Fiat Topolino - The Most Beautiful Way to Electrify Cities**  

The Fiat Topolino, a name that once pioneered urban mobility, is now set to lead sustainable urban mobility.  

**Designed for the City**  

The Topolino expands mobility and freedom, even for younger users.  

100% electric, it represents another step in the brand's journey toward electrification.  

----

FIAT has unveiled the name and the first image of its new sustainable urban mobility solution: the Topolino.  

This fully electric quadricycle/microcar is ready to contribute to the growth of urban electric mobility, offering an accessible and entirely electric version that encapsulates the charm of the Fiat 500.  

On the webpage dedicated to Fiat accessories or optional accessories are available at Fiat Topolino dealers: one bag storage, fan USB, speaker Bluetooth, water bottle thermal and two seat covers which, if necessary, are transformed into beach towels. All in Green Life color. Image Credit: MotoriQuotidiano (July 2023)

This renowned and evocative name, which originally paved the way for urban mobility, instantly recalls the first Fiat 500. Produced by FIAT from 1936 to 1955, the Fiat 500, commonly known as "Topolino," essentially invented the concept of personal mobility.  

The new Topolino perfectly embodies the *Dolce Vita* and FIAT's Italian spirit. Designed to bring a smile to your face, the Topolino brings a new vision of *Dolce Vita* to the streets—joy, optimism, and fun. It is a new electric mobility device designed for a broad audience, including younger customers, families, and city enthusiasts.

----

**More Than Mobility**  

The Topolino is more than a mobility device. Thanks to its charming design, suitable for all generations, it will make younger generations fall in love with cars again.  

ENDS

Fiat Topolino with doors and sunroof for greater security and protection from the elements while driving around high-density environments. Image Credit: MotoriQuotidiano (July 2023) 

The Topolino is also a fully enclosed vehicle for a higher level of protection while rolling along in tight urban community cityscapes.

This microcar stands out for extremely small dimensions - dimensioni ridotte - compared to a car with its roughly 8.5 feet in length. It focuses on handling, without stress with the maximum speed to roughly 28 mph.

Both versions can be purchased at a price estimate at  starting from around $12,000, to which, if available, the federal and/or state incentives dedicated to electric quadricycles may be applied.

Top Speed - 28 mph (45 Kilometers per Hour ≈ 27.961704 Miles per Hour)

0-28 mph - 10 seconds

Range - 45 Miles (75 Kilometers ≈ 46.602839 Miles)

Charge From Zero - 4 Hours

These highlights are interesting and help to narrow the focus and target market for its application & use.

Microcars are reshaping urban mobility, providing a compact and eco-conscious response to the pressing challenges of modern cities. Their diminutive size, impressive fuel efficiency, and affordability directly combat issues like traffic congestion and environmental degradation. More than just a mode of transportation, microcars represent a forward-thinking commitment to smarter and cleaner urban living.

Equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including electric powertrains, smart connectivity, and the potential for autonomous driving, these vehicles are key drivers in the ongoing evolution of urban transportation. By adopting microcars, cities can enhance connectivity, improve efficiency, and promote sustainability. Their versatility makes them ideal for age-focused and holiday communities, as well as high-density urban areas, offering a transformative step toward an inclusive, eco-friendly urban future.

Love the motor culture statement this car makes - who needs an E-scooter when one can sit & ride in a Topolino (closed) or Topolino Dolcevita (open) models.

The point of modern "mobility" isn't to just get from point "A" to point "B", but to celebrate life with enhanced technology tools and solutions that have this experience to become special. Motor Culture and living the good life - as the Italians say Dolce Vita - is the key found through this quadricycle/microcar design and power option format. 

... notes from The EDJE 

FEATURED SYNDICATION >>> 

TAGS: AutoMobility LA 2024, Fiat, Topolino, Dolcevita, Stellantis, Microcar, quadricycle, holiday, planned communities, urban cityscapes, EVHN, The EDJE

Future Of Transportation As Articulated By Frank Stephenson Captured By 2025AD

The world where art and science intersect, is where Designer Frank Stephenson feels alive and is most comfortable. Image Credit: 2025AD Screengrab (2020)

Future Of Transportation As Articulated By Frank Stephenson Captured By 2025AD

Speaking to 2025AD - The Autonomous Driving Community powered by Continental, Art Center College of Design trained and world renowned designer Frank Stephenson highlights his ideal way of getting from A to B, the future of vehicle interiors and of course, our move towards autonomous vehicles.

One of the world’s most successful and prolific automotive designers, Frank Stephenson has created some of the most instantly recognisable cars out there, ranging from the ubiquitous (Fiat 500, BMW X5, New Mini) to the unique (McLaren P1, Lilium flying taxi.)

For many, creating something iconic is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, based on hard work, good timing, and the right conditions. For Frank Stephenson, whose work creating icons has come seemingly naturally, is now turning his attention away from the car design world and towards the future of transportation.

"Chasing Perfect" is a bio-documentary that gives one insight into the complex world of designing for the masses while maintaining the integrity found in the definition of perfect. Find out more of what influences drive and inspires the designer behind what gets us around and surrounds us with space that speaks to our mobility & stylistic needs.

"Chasing Perfect" can be acquired via digital download order, streaming, and DVD purchase through the following resources.

Amazon
iTunes
Google Play
REDBOX
VUDU

... or, just Search for your favorite portal of choice.

... notes from The EDJE

Featured Posting On Electric Vehicles & Hybrid News




TAGS: Frank Stephenson, 2025AD, Autonomy, Continental, Chasing Perfect, Salon Pictures, Lionsgate UK, Head Gear Films, Ford, Escort, McLaren, Ferrari, Maserati, BMW X5, Mini, Fiat, Lancia, Alfa Romeo, Art Center College Of Design, The EDJE

CES 2020 - THE GLOBAL STAGE FOR INNOVATION

CES 2020 - Image Credit: Edmund Jenks - EVHNews.com (2020)

CES 2020 - THE GLOBAL STAGE FOR INNOVATION

Photo overview gathered and presented by Electric Vehicles & Hybrid News managing editor Edmund Jenks (2020).

- CES 2020 Photo Album -

Hyundai Vertical Lift Aircraft - Image Credit: Edmund Jenks - EVHNews.com (2020)

CES is the world's gathering place for all those who thrive on the business of consumer technologies. It has served as the proving ground for innovators and breakthrough technologies for 50 years — the global stage where next-generation innovations are introduced to the marketplace.

Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, it attracts the world's business leaders and pioneering thinkers.

Future-Focused Automakers Turning to Startups

CES 2020 cemented its role as the most important show for automotive technology, with a handful of new car introductions (and re-introductions) plus lots of standalone technologies this week. Most US auto shows other than perhaps LA don’t generate a critical mass of tech-oriented auto company people, analysts, and journalists. CES certainly did.

HIGHLIGHT:

SONY Vision-S: Asymmetric Effort In Mobility Solutions From E-Technology Giant

Automakers are preparing for the future of mobility by investing in and partnering with all sorts of technology and mobility-focused startups, which allows them to expand their knowledge, capability and expertise to remain relevant in an industry on the verge of massive transformation.

Some might snicker when Byton CEO Daniel Kircher called the M-Byte EV “the first smart device on wheels,” but not the people attending this show. Of the vehicle introductions and concept cars, all were electrified – EVs or plug-in hybrids – with no gas-engine-only vehicles introduced.

Enjoy this visual overview gathered on an overnight boomerang run from Los Angeles to Las Vegas Wednesday January 7th and Thursday January 8th, 2020. What a way to begin a year of exciting possibilities.

... notes from The EDJE



TAGS: Sony, Vision-S, Ford, Fisker, Nissan, Ariya, Mercedes Benz, Vision Avatar, Hyundai, Aisin, Toyota, EVBOX, Futurus, Renovo, Woven City, Fiat, Bell, Mobility Solutions, The EDJE

Lessons Learned In The Needs-Satisfaction World Of "Chasing Perfect"

Lessons Learned In The Needs-Satisfaction World Of "Chasing Perfect"
The first half in a life lived as a motorcycle competitor, artist, pursuer of nature, perfectionist and ... mobility solutions designer, Frank Stephenson.

"Chasing Perfect" is a documentary style film production by Salon Pictures and Lionsgate UK that is a biographical look behind the curtain of the creative and commercially productive life of Casablanca born, Frank Stephenson.

So, just who is this man who was placed into our everyday mobility consciousness?

Listing of the documentary that Salon Pictures, with a distribution partnership through Lionsgate, found as the working title of an active project on the Salon Pictures website. Image Credit: Salon Pictures (2018)

Many people are not aware, but they are met with Stephenson designed solutions when outside of their homes through the traveling designs of the Ford Escort, the BMW X5, the re-birth of the MINI, the modern version of the Fiat 500, as well as the establishment of McLaren in the world of (can this be said?) everyday drive and affordable supercar - a calculation most supercar creators and purveyors do not consider when they create a near 200mph, or better, transportation solution that is meant to be reliably driven (as opposed to being tinkered with in the tune-up shop) everyday.

To label Frank as an artist minimizes the totality of what evolves through the many influences and points of information designer Stephenson has to consider and digest before he is given a target assignment objective and places a drawing instrument to a sheet of paper.

Caught in the act of enjoying pursuits of perfection in the McLaren presentation space along the 18th Fairway at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance - Frank and his wife, partner, best friend, co-pilot of "Riverbreeze", and co-lover of Bernese Shepherds, Linda Stephenson. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2016)

This documentary evolves into an enticing study in the life of an eternally young man who understands that perfection is elusive but for one convergent moment, achievable, given that ultimately, what's produced has to deliver its desired effect, one customer at a time.

This is the very reason why anyone who engages in pursuits that are designed to hit their target, be it a grocer, a lawyer, a boat builder, a healthcare specialist, a government services employee, a salesman, a teacher, a small business owner, or even a CEO would benefit from sitting down and investing an hour and thirty-one minutes experiencing "Chasing Perfect" with one who is never satisfied ... even when the project is over.

These viewing minutes will deliver many lessons when one wishes to become competent at chasing the concept of perfection throughout one's life.

"Chasing Perfect" can be acquired in North America as of July 9th, 2019 via digital download order, streaming, and DVD purchase through the following resources.

Amazon
iTunes
Google Play
REDBOX
VUDU

... or, just Search for your favorite portal of choice.

Author - Notes From The EDJE and Managing Editor - Performance & Racing Tech Talk Edmund Jenks appears in the documentary at about 3 minutes and 50 seconds stating "Between the MINIs, the Fiat 500s, the uh, BMW X5s ... when you just drive around & you are not even thinking about Frank ... Frank is in front of you everyday. Image Credit: Salon Pictures/1091 (2019)

UPDATE:

Chasing Perfect - PLEX (free streaming portal)

Chasing Perfect - CRACKLE (free streaming portal)

... notes from The EDJE




TAGS: Frank Stephenson, Chasing Perfect, Salon Pictures, Lionsgate UK, Head Gear Films, Metrol Technology, 1091, Ford, Escort, McLaren, Ferrari, Maserati, BMW X5, Mini, Fiat, Lancia, Alfa Romeo, ArtCenter College Of Design, Stewart Reed, The EDJE

124 Spider By Fiat Seeks To Recapture Imagination And Space

Welcome the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider with top up.  Image Credit: FCA (2015)

124 Spider By Fiat Seeks To Recapture Imagination And Space

A 2-seat convertible roadster from Fiat was introduced at the LA Auto Show with the aid of the re-imagined platform that had held the lead in this class for decades and fueled the first rung of many racing ladder series efforts ... the Mazda Miata.

In today's vernacular, where millennials mash together two or more names (from people, places, & things) or concepts into one word, the Fiat 124 Spider becomes the Fiata.

This name ... Fiata, has a touch of fun, but ultimately, minimizes the heart and effort to re-establish Fiat back into the American and world motor culture when this proud Italian mark owned the imagination and space of the affordable and stylish 2-seat roadster sports car.

This excerpted and edited from CarScoops -

A Visual Comparison Between The Fiat 124 Spider And The Mazda MX-5
Sunday, November 22, 2015 at 6:35 pm | Posted by Bogdan Zoltan 

We knew for quite some time that Fiat was prepping to build a small, sporty roadster on Mazda’s ND platform, but we didn’t expect such a divergent result from the original MX-5. 

Even though the new Fiat 124 is technically a Mazda MX-5 with Italian-tailored clothes and a turbocharged engine, it manages to adopt a completely different character than its Nippon counterpart. But how can two cars built at the same plant (at Mazda’s Hiroshima facility) look so different?

2017 Fiat 124 Spider “romantic motoring” rear deck/quarter-panel line, badge, and tail-light are far different than the modern, non-nonsense euro-style of the Miata MX-5.  Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2015)

While the MX-5 appears to be a sharp, driver-focused roadster, the 124 Spider appeals to the forgotten art of “romantic motoring”, centering its existence on driving as a form of delectation, instead of performance. 
----
The Italians did a pretty good job of (almost) completely masking the original design. 

Fiat’s vision mirrors the original 1974 Sport Spider, especially the later, Pininfarina-marketed Spider Azzura, both designed by the Italian coachbuilder. In fact, the similarities between the two are so striking, it actually seems like Fiat brought the Azzura in the 21st century. 

Fiat’s brand new roadster is on a completely different visual pathway compared to the Mazda’s approach. Even the proportions are somewhat changed on the 124, as it’s a bit longer with more extended overhangs; or at least it looks that way, since its back end isn’t slightly raked and the front end doesn’t slope towards the tarmac like the MX-5’s aggressive, pointy design.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider “romantic motoring” front grille.  Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2015)

Mazda’s front end is clean, clear and crisp, with a very unique and original style. Fiat’s front fascia, on the other hand, has a familiar vibe to it (especially the grille), even though you can’t pinpoint where it got it from. It kind of resembles Mini’s current style philosophy, even though we know it’s a very good interpretation of the original Azzura. 
----
At the back, the Fiat takes a trip down to memory lane once again, almost plagiarizing the Azzura. There’s no doubt the simple, gimmick-free approach, along with the slightly tilted taillights were taken from its ancestor, as the new 124 was sketched as a safe, evolutionary approach to the old car that left its distinctive mark on the US market. 

2017 Fiat 124 Spider side view has the look of a larger, more mature roadster than the 2016 Mazda Miata MX-5. With the top up, a "class effect" is imparted and adds to the sense we are entering a re-newed age of "romantic motoring."  Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2015)

And yes, it looks markedly different than the MX-5, which appears to be at least 10-years younger than the 124 Spider.

In the cabin, things take a 180 degree turn, because there are practically no differences between the two models. Both the 124 Spider and the MX-5 have exactly the same layout and design. In fact, the only major game changer is the badge on the (slightly thicker) steering wheel. Perhaps cash-strapped Fiat couldn't, or wasn't prepared to, fork out for a new interior. 

Fiat’s classic approach may have cleared Mazda’s path and appeal to potential buyers, but its somewhat dated design can still spawn its very own cult of followers.
[Reference Here - Includes Photo Gallery]

In only one small way does the effort feel that Fiat, in its re-purpose of the Mazda Miata MX-5 into the 124 Spider, did not go far enough to differentiate itself from the original platform so as to make the term "Fiata" irrelevant ... like the simple addition of a factory made, integrated snap-on, hard top, for example.

Of course, this becomes a perfect SEMA segment company opportunity for product of the year in Las Vegas come 2016.

... notes from The EDJE


 LA Auto Show - OPEN TO THE PUBLIC//NOVEMBER 20-29, 2015


TAGS: Fiat, 124 Spider, Mazda, Miata, MX-5, Miata MX-5, romatic motoring, Azzura, 2015 LA Auto Show, The EDJE

LA Auto Show Announces A Debut Event Of 40+ Vehicles

All electric Cadillac Converj concept on display at the 2011 LA Auto Show. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2011)  

LA Auto Show Announces A Debut Event Of 40+ Vehicles

The Los Angeles Auto Show announced today July 12, 2012 that more than 40 vehicles are anticipated to debut at the Show during the 2012 Press Days, held Nov. 28-29.

With four and a half months until the Show (beginning with Press Days - Nov. 28-29), it is noteworthy that at least 20 world debuts have already been confirmed by automakers. This breaking news, as well as other automotive trends, will be unveiled to a global audience consisting of media from more than 50 countries.

The debut lineup this year also promises a compelling mix of the hottest trends and cutting-edge innovations driving today's resurgent automotive industry, including world firsts from Chevrolet as well as European automakers such as BMW, Fiat and Volkswagen. Los Angeles attendees will also see global unveiling previews of new designs from Asian brands, including models from Acura, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan and Toyota.

The all natural gas-powered 2012 Honda Accord Green Car of the Year for 2012. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2011)


Green and alternative fuel technologies represented by types powered through fuel hybrid and all-electric vehicles, will be featured in several world debuts at the Show. There also will be an increasing number of high-mileage internal combustion vehicles, including clean diesel, on display.

Additionally, several automakers will unveil emerging technologies that are dramatically changing the modern driving experience and making it safer.

These technology-laden vehicles will share the media spotlight with a well-represented lineup of luxury and performance models underscoring the L.A. region's status as the largest market for these segments in the country. Of the 40 debuts slated, at least a dozen will come from these two categories, including unveilings from the likes of Acura, Bentley, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover and Porsche.

As stated by Andy Fuzesi, general manager, L.A. Auto Show - "As the first major North American show of the season, L.A. sets the tone for 2013 and we expect that automakers will pull out all the stops to excite new-car buyers. In virtually every category from the greenest electric vehicle to high-horsepower performance models, the technological advancements we are seeing today eclipse all previous automotive eras."

With California established as a global center for alternative fuel and advanced technology innovations, it should come as no surprise that the L.A. Auto Show will be a prime venue for breaking news on all the latest developments. The entirely new Automotive Technology Showcase, presented by the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, is a Press Days expo designed to connect automotive technology companies with automakers, media, analysts, and other potential customers and partners. It will serve as a one-stop dedicated showcase covering advancements such as digital speech recognition, accident avoidance technology, navigation systems, real-time traffic data and solutions designed to mitigate distracted driving concerns.

Supporting the Showcase will be an expanded Ride and Drive called the Green & Advanced Technology Ride and Drive. This Press Days' event will include both "green" vehicles as well as those featuring in-car advancements such as automatic park assist, radar-based object detection systems and driver assist technologies. The Show's "green" credibility is further sustained with the Green Car Journal's annual Green Car of the Year® and Nielsen Automotive Green Marketer of the Year awards.

... notes from The EDJE


** Article first published as LA Auto Show Announces A Debut Event Of 40+ Vehicles on Technorati **

Survey Sez?! ... Ford Is A winner For Standing Alone

In Los Angeles last November, Ford showed off the latest Mustang in standard and GT forms. (Click here to see our video interview with one of the designers responsible for the terrific 2010 package, filmed in LA.) In Detroit, we get the first look at the newest GT500. The car will be available in coupe and convertible forms in spring 2009. Caption & Image Credit: AutoPacific

Survey Sez?! ... Ford Is A winner For Standing Alone

If life were a game show and that game show were Family Feud, Ford would be the "go to" answer, if the survey answer concerned itself about the level of respect a consumer would have for any automobile manufacturer.

The credit crisis brought about through the fall-out of the greater sub-prime mortgage loan market collapse that has shown itself over this last full year exposed the whole of the American automobile manufacturing community. General Motors and Chrysler accepted the Bush Administration's offer to utilize a loan of Federal money in order to weather the storm and fight off bankruptcy.

Ford elected not to accept the offer and therefore maintained control over the way the company would manage itself and we all now know what has happened to the other two competitors. General Motors is owned by the Federal Government and the Auto Workers Union and has declared bankruptcy while Chrysler's ownership, through bankruptcy, was transferred to the Auto Workers Union while the balance of the company was sold off to the Italian auto manufacturer, Fiat in order to bring it out of bankruptcy more quickly.

In both cases, American contract law was over-run as the Federal Government declared that the primary investors and Bond holders were to be honored last as opposed to first as it related to the control of the assets of the company ... both companies.

Ford Fiesta Poised for USA Launch in 2010 - The Fiesta has been on sale in Europe since August 2008 and about 117,000 have been sold to date. With the assistance of the EPA, Ford has been able to bring in 145 into the states for testing and evaluation purposes. Caption & Image Credit: AutoPacific

In a recently released survey of consumer attitudes conducted by AutoPacific, Ford has surged ahead by a margin of 3 to 1 ... of both GM and Fiat/Chrysler in the "Not concerned at all" response to the level of confidence about the viability of purchasing or leasing from a specific manufacturer.

In the coveted "likely to buy" category, Ford equaled the attitudes held for the top Japanese manufacturers.

The survey proves that consumers want to purchase from Automobile manufacturers that have their corporate structure firmly planted in Capitalism and not a structure born from another route.

Image Credit: AutoPacific

This excerpted and edited from Vehicle Voice -

Survey Indicates Ford Benefits From Troubles Of Others And Not Taking Bailout
Public Responds Positively to Ford's Actions, but Some Still Have Reservations
Vehicle Voice - June 17, 2009

American consumers' opinions about Ford Motor Company have been positively influenced by the company's decision not to accept government bailout funds, and by the bankruptcy filings of rivals General Motors and Chrysler. Automotive research and analysis firm AutoPacfic conducted an online survey of more than 900 U.S. consumers regarding their purchase intent and opinions of individual car companies. Highlights include:

* Asian and European manufacturers scored highest when the survey asked "How concerned are you about buying/leasing a vehicle from" a particular maker, with an average of 61% "Not concerned at all." Ford scored 48%, far ahead of GM's 15% and Chrysler's 14%.

* Ford matched or scored higher than its Asian and European competitors to the question "How likely are you to buy/lease a new car" from a specific manufacturer:

o Toyota -- 43% Likely/Very Likely

o Ford -- 43% Likely/Very Likely

o Honda -- 41% Likely/Very Likely

o Volkswagen -- 33% Likely/Very Likely

o Hyundai -- 22% Likely/Very Likely

o General Motors -- 15% Likely/Very Likely

o Chrysler -- 7% Likely/Very Likely

* Skepticism was also revealed:

o 39% Agreed/Completely Agreed that Ford Motor company was simply lucky to have "cleaned house" before the economic downturn

o 39% Agreed/Completely Agreed that Ford has yet to prove it won't ask for a bailout in the future

"Ford's restructuring, which started months before the current economic downturn, has clearly helped position it more closely with its Asian and European rivals than its domestic competitors, in terms of public perception," said George Peterson, president of Tustin, CA-based AutoPacific. "Some don't think Ford is out of the woods but, overall, consumers view Ford quite favorably verses their cross-town rivals and on par or better than most imports. All brands will be significantly challenged if the downturn continues into 2010."
Reference Here>>

Ok, so Ford is not out of the woods just yet, but all one has to ask themselves when one is considering the purchase of a new automobile ... Would you buy a car manufactured by a car company that is owned by the Federal Government, and/or a labor union, or would you buy a car from a company run by a management team that grew up creating cars from the ground up that address the needs of the consuming public?

... notes from The EDJE