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Fiat 500 Electric Reports Build Ahead Of Possible Detroit Unveiling

MOMENTUM IS BUILDING on reports that Fiat and Chrysler are working to unveil an all-electric Fiat 500 at next week’s Detroit Motor Show.
Rumours of an electrified 500 began circulating last month, and new reports this week suggest the concept will offer


MOMENTUM IS BUILDING on reports that Fiat and Chrysler are working to unveil an all-electric Fiat 500 at next week's Detroit Motor Show.

Rumours of an electrified 500 began circulating last month, and new reports this week suggest the concept will offer a driving range of over 240 kilometres from a single charge.

According to British website AutoExpress, the electric 500 will bear a battery pack with over 5000 cells, drawing additional energy from a KERS-like regenerative braking system.

The electric 500 will reportedly take 10 hours to gain a full charge from a regular home power supply, while dedicated charging stations will accomplish the task in half the time.

As with many conventional vehicles converted to electric power, drag-reducing aerodynamic updates to the 500's exterior are expected.

The report claims that while the battery park will increase the 500's kerb weight, a 0-96km/h (0-60mph) sprint should be achievable in around 10 seconds. A top speed of 145km/h is expected.

It remains to be seen whether there is any truth to these reports, but with the Detroit show less than a week away, time will tell soon enough.

In a recent presentation to the Italian Government, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne revealed that the Fiat 500 will be offered with a 900cc turbo-charged two-cylinder petrol engine from next year.

The engine is expected to be offered as the entry-level or ultra-efficient eco-friendly version of the Fiat 500, along with the Panda and Punto.

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