Fiat has released the first images of an electric version of its iconic mini car, the 500, just a few weeks before its debut at the 2012 LA Motor Show. This model, after its launch joins its fossil-fuelled siblings like the Abarth 500, 500X crossover and the 500L to form the Italian automaker's largest range from a single model.
From the outside the car looks similar to the standard 500 although it has been given re-profiled side skirts, aerodynamic tweaks, a contrasting colour front bumper and reprofiled wheels. The model in the picture has been painted in a bright orange colour, maybe a reference to the fruit which is known to provide instant energy.
The cabin has been redesigned to match the electric car image. The white-and-orange theme has been carried forward inside as well, and has been used for the seats, steering and the dashboard. The speedo is now a digital one and the gear lever has been replaced by a set of buttons replicating the functions of an auto box. The Italian automaker has not released any details of the powertrain or other bits under the hood.
We suspect that this car, which will be launched next year, has been aimed specifically at the American market which despite being fond of large vehicles for many years has taken a liking to the 500. With most of the country adapting to hybrids and electric cars, this seems like a logical step for the automaker.
