Combustion returns to the Fiat 500. Did it ever leave?

Combustion returns to the Fiat 500. Did it ever leave?

EVs have been a hot topic at the moment, and with decreasing interest in fully electric vehicles, brands are taking a step back in the name of sales. Fiat's new 500e lineup made waves when its announcement came with the surprise that they intend to only sell fully electric models of their popular little hatch. Due to the dormant nature of the EV market recently, the brand has decided to revert back to ICE motors, which adds to the pushback on the 2030 full EV ambitions for many manufacturers.

According to Fiat, production of a hybrid 500 will start in 2026 at their Mirafiori facility. Concerns that customers may switch brands in search of reliable combustion engines are a major contributing factor to this shift, as range anxiety is still a problem that needs to be addressed globally. Also, EVs are more expensive, and a higher price tag on Fiat's affordable hatch may push potential clients elsewhere. 

Given the brand's current use of hybrid technology, it's reasonable to assume that the hybrid 500 will share technology with the hybrid 600, which coincidentally shares parts with the Peugeot 208 and Opel Corsa. So, we wouldn’t be surprised to find a turbocharged 1.2-litre hybrid motor with a 6-speed DCT gearbox in the new 500. The 500 is, however, considerably more compact than the 600, so there is a chance of a smaller displacement engine being fitted into the 500. .

In a similar vein, Abarth has also pushed for their performance hatches to only be offered as electric vehicles, and this was met with mixed reactions. But with news that Fiat is returning the hybrid powertrain to its cars, Abarth may follow suit with hybrid combustion options for their 500s. If this is the case, then Abarth fanboys could be in for an exciting announcement shortly. 

Sadly, local EV sales are still on the lower end, and despite improvements in infrastructure, driving an electric car is still not a stress-free affair. Although the outgoing ICE models are still available, a hybrid offering to replace the EV 500 is perfect for South African motorists and is one that we are excited about.

‍