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Explore Fiat Linea price, features, specifications, variants, colours, pros & cons, key highlights, images, user reviews, and FAQs at AutoX. 

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Fiat just showcased its new-generation Panda compact SUV&nbsp;–&nbsp;now called the Grande Panda&nbsp;– revealing a new modern-retro design with two powertrain options. In no time, we now have a set of interior images that give us an idea of what to expect from the SUV.&nbsp;

The Fiat Grande Panda retains the same five-seat configuration as the earlier Pandas; however, it gets a well-rounded dashboard featuring an&nbsp;infotainment screen. The screen comes with an integrated digital instrument cluster. The rounded theme continues on the centre console and interior door handles. Another highlight is the rectangular air vents resonating with the angular bodywork. The cabin also receives two-tone upholstery, integrated headrests, steering wheel-mounted controls, cruise control, and yellow accents matching the body's colour. On the other hand, the switchgear is expected to be similar to its sister model, the Citroen C3.&nbsp;

<img alt="Interior view of the Fiat Grande Panda that was spotted testing" src="/uploads/2024/06/Fiat-Grande-Panda-Interior-spied-1-.jpg" style="width: 1280px; height: 720px;" />

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/citroen-c3-platform-based-fiat-grande-panda-unveiled-with-electric-and-hybrid-powertrains-117488/">Citroen C3 Platform-Based ⁠Fiat Grande Panda Unveiled with Electric and Hybrid Powertrains</a>

<h2>Fiat Grande Panda: Platform, Powertrain</h2>

Given that the&nbsp;Grande Panda is mechanically related to the Citroen C3, the former sits on Stellantis' Smart Car platform, supporting internal combustion and battery powertrains. At 3.99mm in length, the new Fiat Grande Panda is about 337mm longer than its predecessor, but 25mm shorter than the Citroen C3.&nbsp;

Under the hood, the upcoming Fiat Grande Panda will get more than one powertrain option&nbsp;– a mild-hybrid setup with a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, as well as&nbsp;the global-spec C3's&nbsp;200km and 327km electric systems. Both options will come with automatic transmission.&nbsp;

<h2>Fiat Grande Panda: Exterior</h2>

We already know it has&nbsp;retro-futuristic styling taking inspiration from the Fiat Concept City Car which debuted earlier&nbsp;this year. The styling elements include an enclosed grille, boxy fenders,&nbsp;pixel-style LED&nbsp;headlights and taillights,&nbsp;boxy fenders, and the&nbsp;Panda lettering. The four-spoke 17-inch diamond-cut alloys adopt a pixel theme as well.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/industry-news/stellantis-to-sell-leapmotor-models-globally-india-entry-in-q4-2024-with-these-evs-117127/">Stellantis to Sell Leapmotor Models Globally, India Entry in Q4 2024 with These EVs</a>

The retro-looking Fiat Grande Panda first goes on sale in Europe. However, it remains to be seen whether Fiat will bring this model to our market.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C8UrPIvC7uq/?igsh=ZDZqYzNld3lnM2R3&amp;img_index=1">Source</a>

Fiat Grande Panda Interior Spied, Confirms Rounded Dashboard, Two-tone Upholstery and More

Though the Fiat Grande Panda retains the same five-seat configuration as the earlier Pandas, it gets a well-rounded cabin, typical for a Fiat.

Fiat has introduced the&nbsp;new Grande Panda hatchback. Based on the STLA Smart platform, it&nbsp;is effectively the sister model to the&nbsp;Euro-spec <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/citroen/c3/">Citroen C3</a>, with a boxy appearance and distinctive square and X-themed design elements. The Grande Panda,&nbsp;developed and engineered in Turin, Italy, incorporates cutting-edge technology and contemporary design aspects while taking cues from the legendary Panda of the 1980s. It is&nbsp;the first car in Fiat's new global lineup and promises to revolutionise the B-segment car market by providing the ideal balance of compact size and roomy cabins fit for a family of five.

The car&nbsp;meets the growing demand for environmentally friendly vehicles by offering both electric and hybrid versions, which makes it a desirable option for car buyers. In keeping with its current expansion strategy, Fiat intends to introduce a new car annually through 2027, thereby strengthening its position as one of the leading&nbsp;global players in the industry.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/citroen-c3-aircross-unveiled-in-europe-to-get-ice-hybrid-and-electric-powertrain-options-116857/">2024 Citroen C3 Aircross Unveiled in Europe; to Get ICE, Hybrid and Electric Powertrain Options</a>

<h2>Fiat Grande Panda: Design Cues</h2>

<img alt="Fiat Grande Panda Side View" src="/uploads/2024/06/Fiat-Grande-Panda-side-final.jpg" style="width: 1280px; height: 720px;" />

On the design front,&nbsp;the erect nose has an enclosed grille that blends seamlessly with the headlamps thanks to its cube-like pattern. Furthermore, the rectangular headlamps sport&nbsp;prominent&nbsp;pixel-like lighting elements. The daytime running lights (DRLs) make an X pattern, which is also seen in other areas&nbsp;of the car. The bumper has a thin air vent directly below the grille, and a huge rectangular air dam rests at the base. The air dam's passage into the bumper also exhibits a cube-style pattern.&nbsp;

The fenders' pronounced flares are another example of how the squared-out design theme&nbsp;extends to the sides. The word "Panda" has been etched on the metal of the doors, and an X pattern is also seen in the wheel design. The Fiat emblem is stamped into the tailgate, and the X-shaped lighting elements are likewise featured around the back of the vertically oriented tail lamps. Together with the large rear windscreen, a black trim piece featuring the Panda badge spans the width of the tailgate, giving the design a layered appearance.

<h2>Fiat Grande Panda: Mechanical Specs</h2>

<img alt="Fiat Grande Panda Rear and Side View" src="/uploads/2024/06/Fiat-Grande-Panda-rear-quarter-final.jpg" style="width: 1280px; height: 720px;" />

Although technical specifications are still under wraps, Fiat has announced that the Grande Panda is designed on a multi-energy platform, supporting&nbsp;both hybrid and electric models. This reflects the increased market demand for environmentally friendly automobiles and is in line with Fiat's commitment to sustainability. Despite the Panda's history of providing four-wheel drive, it is anticipated that the new-generation&nbsp;model&nbsp;will only be available as a front-wheel drive car.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/citroen-basalt-coupe-suv-production-commences-in-india-ahead-of-launch-117480/" rel="bookmark" title="Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV Production Commences in India Ahead of Launch">Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV Production Commences in India Ahead of Launch</a>

Fiat intends to release additional information on the Grande Panda in the upcoming months. The vehicle is aimed at markets where Fiat is well-established and will be accessible across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. There are currently no signs, though, that the Grande Panda will be offered for sale in markets like the&nbsp;US.&nbsp;The present-generation Panda,&nbsp;renamed Pandina in February this year, will remain on the market for the time being. For the uninitiated, the third-gen&nbsp;model&nbsp;made its premiere at the 2011 Frankfurt auto show, and it is still among the most reasonably priced&nbsp;cars in Europe&nbsp;and one of Fiat's best-selling models.

Citroen C3 Platform-Based ⁠Fiat Grande Panda Unveiled with Electric and Hybrid Powertrains

Although technical specifications are still under wraps, Fiat has announced that the Grande Panda is designed on a multi-energy platform, supporting both hybrid and electric models.

Fiat has&nbsp;revealed its five new concepts that will be launched in the international market – Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, and&nbsp;Europe – over the next three years. This includes electric, hybrid, and internal combustion engine-powered models, based on a new 'multi-energy' platform sourced from Stellantis. Unnamed as of now, the common global platform will first spawn the 'Mega Panda', the B-segment car&nbsp;previewed by the City Car concept. The production-spec model will be unveiled in July 2024 to mark Fiat's 125th anniversary celebrations, followed by its launch in Europe first.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Fiat "Mega Panda" Concept</h2>

The Mega Panda is modelled after Fiat's Lingotto building in Turin with its iconic rooftop test track. Thanks to this, the concept car incorporates many such oval shapes throughout its design, including inside the cabin with&nbsp;an oval-shaped dashboard, displays, and headrests. The interior also&nbsp;features&nbsp;sustainable materials in abundance, including recycled plastics and bamboo fabrics, while the exterior sports&nbsp;chunky wheel arches, pixel headlight modules, steel wheels, and a new Fiat logo. On offer is also a 'self-winding' charging cable to make plugging and unplugging easier.&nbsp;

The production-spec model will be available with different powertrains, including&nbsp;fully electric&nbsp;and&nbsp;combustion options. It will be bigger than the existing Panda model, and could&nbsp;be based on the same&nbsp;low-cost Smart Car&nbsp;platform as the Citreon C3, <a href="http://www.autox.com/?s=citroen">which is already on sale in India in both electric and ICE guise.</a>

<h2>Fiat Pick-Up Concept</h2>

<img alt="Fiat Pick Up" height="720" src="/uploads/2024/02/Fiat-Pick-up.jpg" width="1280" />

We now move&nbsp;on to the brand's Pick-Up concept. Like the Mega Panda, this concept is square-shaped and has boxy fenders. It will essentially replace the&nbsp;Strada truck&nbsp;– Brazil's best-seller. Fiat estimates that the new vehicle can replicate the Strada's success at a global level, even in the European market.&nbsp;

<h2>Fiat Fastback Concept</h2>

<img alt="Fiat Fastback Concept" height="720" src="/uploads/2024/02/Fiat-Fastback-concept.jpg" width="1280" />

Then, there is a Fastback concept with a body style similar to a coupe-like crossover. An "heir" to&nbsp;the Fiat Fastback in Brazil and the Fiat Tipo in the Middle East and Africa, the&nbsp;concept gets a rakish rear end and sloped roofline, adding a&nbsp;"sporty flair" to it. While Fiat's Pick-Up concept previews a successor to the Strada, the Fastback is expected to supersede the Fastback (Brazil)&nbsp;and Tipo (Middle East) model lines. It could even make its way into the&nbsp;European market.&nbsp;

<h2>Fiat "Giga Panda"&nbsp;Concept</h2>

<img alt="Fiat SUV" height="720" src="/uploads/2024/02/Fiat-SUV.jpg" width="1280" />

The Giga Panda is a family SUV adopting a boxy design. It gets squarish wheel arches,&nbsp;illuminated rectangles, and a flat roofline. Upon its arrival, it will go toe-to-toe with the likes of the <a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/new-renault-duster-suv-in-dacia-guise-debuts-with-upgraded-exterior-and-interior-globally-115391/">new Dacia Duster&nbsp;– revealed last year in November</a>. Like the City Car, this SUV offers spaciousness and emphasizes the 'needs of family transport'.&nbsp;

<h2>Fiat Camper&nbsp;Concept</h2>

<img alt="Fiat Camper" height="720" src="/uploads/2024/02/Fiat-camper.jpg" width="1280" />

Last but not least, the Fiat Camper is touted as the 'ultimate do-it-all vehicle'. It has a raised ride height, and features all-terrain tyres and a roof rack. Having rugged styling, the Camper is said to pay homage to the "fun-ctionality"&nbsp;of the Panda 4x4 from the 1980s. &nbsp;

With over 13 lakh cars sold last year, Fiat is in the "global game". Now, the brand is focusing on "raising that global game with a set of new models".&nbsp;Fiat CEO Olivier Francois said,&nbsp;"The new models will conquer&nbsp;the streets, and complete our line-up in Europe, South America, the Middle East and Africa".

Fiat Unveils Five Futuristic 'Panda-inspired' Concepts: From Camper to Fastback

Fiat has revealed its five new concepts that will launch in the international market – Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe – over the next three years. Find out details here:

The Abarth version of the 600e has been introduced by Stellantis, the parent company of Fiat, in addition to the electric and mildly hybrid combustion engine variants that went on sale&nbsp;last year.&nbsp;The firm's most recent product,&nbsp;the Abarth 600e, is an all-electric tribute to the Fiat 600 from the 1950s and 1960s that has far greater power and a limited launch edition. Upon launch, the Italian manufacturer&nbsp;will sell 1,949 units of the limited-run&nbsp;Scorpionissima edition. Although the pricing and availability in the UK have not yet been disclosed, one might anticipate a starting price of about £40,000. Hypnotic Purple, the paint job that&nbsp;the Launch Edition is decked out in, looks attractive&nbsp;when paired with the gloss-black trim, dual-tone alloy wheels, and the acid-green scorpion insignia on the front fenders. Notably, the 600e is the most potent Abarth vehicle ever, despite its comparatively low 237bhp power rating. On top of this,&nbsp;it has a mechanical limited-slip differential to help with traction.&nbsp;Let's find out more.&nbsp;

<h2>Fiat Abarth 600e Scorpionissima Launch Edition: Mechanical Details</h2>

<img alt="Fiat Abarth 600e 2 " height="720" src="/uploads/2024/02/Fiat-Abarth-600e-2-.jpg" width="1280" />

Abarth has previously stated that the 600e's electric drivetrain will generate 237bhp of maximum power, which is a significant improvement above the 154bhp&nbsp;delivered by&nbsp;the standard&nbsp;Fiat model. Although the number of electric motors was not disclosed by the brand, the teaser video suggests a front-wheel drive setup with a limited-slip differential. Apart from this, the Fiat 600e's 54kWh battery will likely be retained, which means the Abarth variant's range would probably be less.&nbsp;If the 600e Abarth is fitted with the same battery as the Fiat version, it can provide roughly 400-kilometre&nbsp;of range on Europe's&nbsp;WLTP test cycle.

<h2>Fiat Abarth 600e Scorpionissima Launch Edition: Design&nbsp;Cues and Chassis</h2>

The familiar CMP/e-CMP architecture from Stellantis, which powers Fiat's 600e as well as the Jeep Avenger, the Vauxhall Mokka, and the Peugeot 2008, forms the basis of the new "Perfo-eCMP" platform on which the Abarth 600e is built.&nbsp;Abarth also&nbsp;revealed&nbsp;that they collaborated with&nbsp;Hankook, the tyre supplier for the Formula E racing series, for&nbsp;the development of the 600e's tyres.&nbsp;A power-to-weight ratio of 150bhp/ton, based on the 1,620 kg kerb weight of the standard Fiat 600e, will place it far higher than the 110bhp/ton of the smaller, 152bhp&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/new-fiat-abarth-500e-unveiled-111865/">Abarth 500e</a>.

Abarth has also modified the chassis of the 600e to provide better handling, in addition to the powertrain. A new limited-slip differential designed specifically for EVs distributes power to each front wheel, and its suspension geometry has been adjusted to improve stability. The Abarth's Alcon braking system, which is not vented or drilled, has larger discs for increased stopping force, and new tyres with a performance-oriented compound&nbsp;have also been installed without compromising efficiency.

A fixed roof-mounted spoiler, sportier lower intake section with new diagonal grilles for better cooling, new tinted rear lights, and distinctive 20-inch diamond-cut wheels distinguish it from the regular Fiat 600e. The model will reportedly have more supportive seats made especially for the sporty&nbsp;600e.

<img alt="Fiat Abarth 600e 1 " height="720" src="/uploads/2024/02/Fiat-Abarth-600e-1-.jpg" width="1280" />

Although the brand has not yet revealed all the specifications of the Abarth 600e Scorpionissima Launch Edition, it will be the most potent road-going model it has ever produced. A variety of performance enhancements are planned to improve the&nbsp;car's overall performance. For those unaware, Abarth is a seasoned rally and performance carmaker and&nbsp;will soon celebrate 75 years in operation. Although the manufacturer started off making sports vehicles, since the 1950s it has developed partnerships with other Italian automakers, most notably <a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/fiat-topolino-mickey-mouse-themed-evs-mark-disneys-100th-anniversary-115345/">Fiat</a>.&nbsp;Abarth continues to produce distinctive, high-performance cars with the iconic scorpion badge utilising Fiat components, even though Fiat has since completely acquired the company and Abarth is now part of the bigger Stellantis group.

Fiat Abarth 600e Revealed in Scorpionissima Launch Edition, Is the Brand's Most Powerful EV Yet with 237bhp

Hypnotic Purple, the paint job that the new Fiat Abarth 600e Scorpionissima Launch Edition is decked out in, looks attractive when paired with the gloss-black trim, dual-tone alloy wheels, and the acid-green scorpion insignia on the front fenders.

Fiat honours Disney's 100th anniversary with a distinctive set of five Mickey Mouse-themed Topolino electrified vehicles. Topolino is an Italian name for Mickey Mouse, the most iconic&nbsp;Disney figure, and the first name given to the Fiat 500 (1936). As a result, the pasts of these two brands have been interwoven in this project.&nbsp;Interestingly, these distinctive and imaginatively designed electric cars offer a journey through art and time, from the inception of the famous Mickey Mouse figure to the present.&nbsp;While these small cars, each with a Mickey Mouse-inspired livery, are a thrilling visual treat for Disney fans, they aren't for purchase.&nbsp;These vehicles will be on display atop Fiat's Lingotto plant in Turin, Italy, which will also commemorate its 100th anniversary in 2023. Here's all you need to know about these tiny yet creative masterpieces.&nbsp;

<h2>Fiat Topolino Mickey-Moused Themed EVs: What Each EV Conveys?</h2>

<img alt="Topolino 1" height="720" src="/uploads/2023/11/Topolino-1.jpg" width="1280" />

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/la-auto-show-2023-kia-sorento-facelift-breaks-cover-globally-with-new-tech-and-updated-design-115343/" rel="bookmark" title="LA Auto Show 2023: Kia Sorento Facelift Breaks Cover Globally with New Tech and Updated Design">LA Auto Show 2023: Kia Sorento Facelift Breaks Cover Globally with New Tech and Updated Design</a>

The automotive and entertainment industries are blended in the five unique Fiat Topolinos. Each electrified Topolino car radiates a different work of art with a distinct theme and aesthetic.&nbsp;The designers of Fiat Centro Stile created the outfits for the first four electric cars, whereas Disney artist Giorgio Cavazzano developed the design for the fifth EV, which is based on Mickey Mouse.

The Disney short film—Steamboat Willie—serves&nbsp;as inspiration for the foremost Fiat Topolino model, which glorifies the past. On the other hand, the second vehicle pays tribute to modern art with its elaborately sculpted body that bears Mickey Mouse's initials. In contrast, the abstract livery of the third Fiat Topolino commemorates Disney's inventiveness by fusing traditional decorative components with abstract symbols and visuals, and Street art serves as the basis for the fourth Fiat Topolino. Finally, the fifth Fiat Topolino is the product of a partnership with Disney's artist Giorgio Cavazzano. The design by Cavazzano conveys Mickey's striking essence.&nbsp;

<img alt="Topolino 2" height="720" src="/uploads/2023/11/Topolino-2.jpg" width="1280" />

<h2>Fiat Topolino Mickey-Moused Themed EVs: What These Brands Have to Say?</h2>

Olivier Francois, Fiat CEO and Global Stellantis CMO, said “The stories of FIAT and Disney are rooted together as both Disney and the Lingotto celebrate their 100th anniversaries, and the 2 Topolinos – the Disney icon and the very first Fiat 500 – have been inspiring art, street art and fashion for decades. We have so much more in common than a name: DNA, authenticity, the importance of bringing people simplicity, warmth, and joy.''

He added ''The new Fiat Topolino will play its part in that by offering ‘smiling’ electric mobility to people. Today I am proud to present our tribute to Disney with five special Topolino one-offs, all inspired by the iconic Disney character that motivated our Topolino’s nickname back in the 1930s.''

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/bugatti-bolide-hypercar-interior-revealed-gets-x-shaped-steering-wheel-multiple-digital-displays-and-more-115335/" rel="bookmark" title="Bugatti Bolide Hypercar Interior Revealed, Gets X-shaped Steering Wheel, Multiple Digital Displays and More">Bugatti Bolide Hypercar Interior Revealed, Gets X-shaped Steering Wheel, Multiple Digital Displays and More</a>

Daniel Frigo, Country Manager of The Walt Disney Company Italy &amp; Turkey and Head of Studio Italy commented ''“At Disney, we are incredibly proud to be part of the culture and amazing creativity of Italy. This love for Italy has inspired us to forge a relationship based on respect and trust with both Italians, as well as FIAT. We are truly honored to be able to celebrate our 100th anniversary with this magical moment that brings FIAT and Topolino together once again, in the spirit of creativity and the bond of friendship.”

Fiat Topolino Mickey Mouse-themed EVs Mark Disney's 100th Anniversary

Fiat has globally unveiled five unique editions of the Topolino electric quadricycle inspired by Disney's iconic character - Mickey Mouse. Here's all you need to know regarding the artwork and design of each Mickey Mouse-themed electric vehicle.

Within a few months of unveiling the electric 500 La Prima convertible, Fiat has now expanded the 500 La Prima line-up with a new&nbsp;electric hatchback version.

Fiat's iconic city car, the 500, got its first-ever all-electric version in March 2020 with the launch of the 500 La Prima convertible. Thanks to an overwhelming response that resulted in the car being sold out, Fiat has now pulled the wraps off the 500 La Prima hatchback, the second variant to join the La Prima line-up.

<img alt="Fiat 500 La Prima Electric Convertible" height="720" src="/uploads/2020/06/Fiat-500-La-Prima-Electric-Convertible.jpg" width="1280" />

<div class="img-caption">Fiat 500 La Prima Electric Convertible</div>

It is distinct from its convertible sibling by virtue of its panoramic glass roof, a classic tailgate, and new rear spoiler. In terms of features &amp; electric drivetrain though, both versions remain identical. Like the convertible, the hatchback, too, comes fitted with&nbsp;LED headlights, 17-inch diamond-cut wheels, chrome-plated inserts on the side panels, and dashboard &amp;&nbsp;eco-leather seat upholstery.

<img alt="Fiat 500 La Prima Electric Hatchback Rear Profile" height="720" src="/uploads/2020/06/Fiat-500-La-Prima-Electric-Hatchback-Rear-Profile.jpg" width="1280" />

Inside, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and&nbsp;a 10.25-inch widescreen HD infotainment system&nbsp;showcases Fiat's new UConnect 5 software. In fact, the new 500 is the first FCA vehicle to get the&nbsp;UConnect 5 software, which offers wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay connectivity.

<img alt="Fiat 500 La Prima Electric Hatchback Interior" height="720" src="/uploads/2020/06/Fiat-500-La-Prima-Electric-Hatchback-Interior.jpg" width="1280" />

The 500 La Prima hatchback is propelled by an&nbsp;87kW (117bhp) electric motor, which draws its power from a compact 42kWh battery pack. Thanks to the presence of an 85kW fast-charge system, the 500 La Prima's battery can be charged up to 80% in just 35 minutes. A 5-minute charge can provide enough juice to drive around for 48km, and on a full charge, the driving range of the car is pegged at around 320km (based on WLTP test cycle).

<img alt="Fiat 500 La Prima Electric Hatchback Charging Port" height="720" src="/uploads/2020/06/Fiat-500-La-Prima-Electric-Hatchback-Charging-Port.jpg" width="1280" />

Further, three drive modes (Normal, Range &amp; Sherpa) offer multiple options to optimise driving range. The 'Range' mode activates 'one-pedal' driving, with increased deceleration to avoid using the brake pedal. The 'Sherpa' mode is the equivalent of a standard 'Eco' mode for EVs.

<img alt="Fiat 500 La Prima Electric Hatchback Rear Quarter" height="720" src="/uploads/2020/06/Fiat-500-La-Prima-Electric-Hatchback-Rear-Quarter.jpg" width="1280" />

Priced at&nbsp;£26,995 (about&nbsp;₹25.8 lakh), the 500 La Prima is not exactly cheap. The price, however, includes the cost of a Wallbox home charger and Level-2 autonomous driving features.

Read more:

<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/fca-resumes-operations-at-ranjangaon-factory-107831/">FCA resumes operations at Ranjangaon factory</a>

<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/fca-to-recall-318537-vehicles-107594/">FCA to recall 3,18,537 vehicles</a>

Fiat 500 La Prima electric hatchback breaks cover

Fiat's iconic city car, the 500, got its first-ever all-electric version in March 2020 when Fiat had launched the 500 La Prima convertible. Fiat has now pulled the wraps off the 500 La Prima hatchback, the second variant to join the La Prima line-up.

The Jeep Compass is produced at the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) India plant at the Ranjangaon. As part of the joint venture with Tata Motors, the Nexon too is manufactured here &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Fiat India Automobiles Pvt. Ltd. (FIAPL) resumes operations at its manufacturing facility in Ranjangaon. With the joint venture between Fiat India and Tata Motors, some of the latter’s products are also produced at this facility. Jeep India, under Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), produces the Compass and Tata Motors Ltd (TML) manufactures the Nexon SUV. FCA’s 2.0-litre diesel motor, which also does duty in cars like the MG Hector, is also produced here. &nbsp;

All the necessary safety measures are already being implemented at the factory. FIAPL claims that they have made use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) mandatory inside the facility and setup a dedicated task force of 50 employee volunteers who will ensure that all the process and safety protocols are strictly followed. Additionally, employees and visitors will have to get their temperatures checked around four times – while entering/exiting the facility and while using the internal transport. There will also be an ambulance with a driver stationed at the facility.

Commenting on the health, hygiene and safety measures, Ravi Gogia – President, Fiat India Automobiles Pvt. Ltd. (FIAPL) said, “We have restarted operations with a lean workforce. Our absolute priority is the protection of employees, ensuring we provide them with a work environment that maintains the highest standards of safety, health and hygiene. Our responsibility is to also educate them on a regimen they should follow after work hours so that their families are also protected.”

Aside from FCA and TML, Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra, Hero, Honda, Bajaj and almost all others have also commenced operations.

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FCA resumes operations at Ranjangaon factory

The Jeep Compass is produced at the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) India plant at the Ranjangaon. As part of the joint venture with Tata Motors, the Nexon too is manufactured here

The Coronavirus pandemic has caused the entire world to go under lockdown. The world economy is sure to take a big hit from this, as industries have almost shut down completely. To combat the crisis, carmakers such as Daimler, Toyota, and FCA are looking to borrow a&nbsp;whole lot of money.&nbsp;

Nobody in the world could have foreseen the devastation that the Coronavirus would bring to the world. Human life is at great risk, and there have been more than 21,000 deaths to&nbsp;this day. To make sure that everybody is safe and we come out of this mess, the entire world's economy has been sacrificed,&nbsp;and rightly so!

But, what will happen once normalcy returns to&nbsp;the world? It seems likely that the auto industry will be one of the biggest casualties. So, in order to make sure that it doesn't become, say the biggest casualty of this growing pandemic, companies such as Toyota, Daimler and FCA are already looking for money lenders.&nbsp;

It has been reported that once production resumes, carmakers will need a lot of cash flow to get things going again. Auto companies&nbsp;have been exploring every possible option to make sure they have working capital on hand, and it seems that borrowing money seems to be a good way to go about doing this. Toyota, which has stopped production at most all of its factories around the world, including India, is looking to borrow as much as $9 billion (Rs 64,000 crores). Toyota has announced that it will begin production in some of its facilities from April 20th.&nbsp;

Daimler is also in a similar situation, and it looks like it is looking to borrow almost $11 billion (Rs 77,000 crores) to get things going again and continue operating in a healthy state. Another big car maker is FCA, which is looking at securing additional lines of credit and might borrow as much as $4 billion from two different banks. The credit facility will be used for general corporate purposes and capital requirements.&nbsp;

As time goes on, and as the entire world continues to be on a lockdown, there is much uncertainty on how industries will regain lost ground. Ford has also announced that it is looking for additional credit to battle the crisis. While we wait out the storm and hope that everything becomes normal again, one thing is for certain&nbsp;– if a big industry is looking to borrow this much money, it means that a huge economic crisis is on its way.&nbsp;And we, common folks, need to be&nbsp;prepared for it.

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Toyota, Daimler and FCA borrowing billions to face Coronavirus Crisis

The Coronavirus has got the entire world on lockdown. The world economy is sure to take a big hit from this as industries have almost shutdown completely. To combat the crisis car makers such as Daimler, Toyota and FCA are looking to borrow a whole lot of money.

<a href="https://www.quattroruote.it/" target="_blank"><img alt="Quattroruote" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-12538" src="/uploads/2013/04/quattroruote2.jpg" title="Quattroruote" /></a>

Who is going to get what in the automotive wedding of the century, which has given life to the world’s fourth-biggest carmaker?

It wouldn’t be fair to say that a marriage of interest is completely devoid of love. That the one announced between PSA and FCA is certainly a marriage of interest is not secret, but it’s also true that the two groups have always been a bit fond of each other.&nbsp;

Both the Agnelli-Elkann family and the Peugeots have often exhibited similar reasoning in their business decisions, and their relationship has always been good, resulting in a long-standing collaboration in commercial vehicles.&nbsp; 
This human aspect, in the context of industrial strategy, may seem like a minor detail, but there’s no denying that it helped the negotiations between the two groups.&nbsp;

The negotiation soon moved towards the finalisation of the collaboration with one essential condition – Chinese state-owned automaker Dongfeng, which owns a 12.2% share in PSA, would have to renounce a part of its share (a mandatory condition at the time of writing) to avoid political obstacles, for the White House was unlikely to welcome a collaboration with a major Chinese shareholder.

However, in this piece we’d like to talk about the less romantic side of this partnership – the one that, after considering facts, situations, and numbers, persuaded the two groups to come together.

The FCA-PSA merger is undoubtedly the most important event in recent years in the automotive world. The partnership has made the duo the fourth biggest automotive group in the world, behind Volkswagen Group, Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi, and Toyota (based on the annual sales volume of 2018).

And it’s clear that the new player is ambitious to climb the ladder – an ambition that will be closer to realisation when the industrial synergy begins yielding returns in terms of economies of scale. And then Toyota, which sold 10.6 million cars in 2018, will definitely feel the presence of this Italian-French-American merger.

<img alt="Chrysler Office" height="336" src="/uploads/2020/02/chrysler-office.jpg" width="642" />

 
Back In North America 
The objective of returning the Peugeot brand to the USA (from where it had retired in 1991) became clear in 2016. But, so far, it’s only limited to managerial assignments and distribution studies. Landing in a new market is never a simple operation, even less so in a competitive market like the United States. Its merger with FCA will certainly strengthen its presence in the US market. Meanwhile, the network of alternative distribution models means that it can count on over 2,600 dealers, experts in the area, and on an equally important back-office structure. All this will ensure that PSA arrives in the USA not as a foreigner but as a partially American company, which will help it gain Washington’s support, or at least neutrality.

<img alt="Maserati" height="336" src="/uploads/2020/02/maserati.jpg" width="642" />

Prestige Matters 
For a group that, in 2015, with its DS brand, invented a luxury brand that did not exist before – providing prestige to what until then was a sophisticated line of Citroën products, the importance of being premium is quite clear. For Carlos Tavares, the availability of two historic brands in the medium-to-high end of the market, such as Maserati and Alfa Romeo, is a great added value. Although, Maserati more than Alfa in this case. In the sense that the identity of the former is better defined – it’s premium without compromise. The Alfa, on the other hand, lies in a more nuanced area, with potential overlap with the Peugeot marque. This means two things – that Maserati's development plan and electrification programme will be confirmed, while the Alfa models will likely form some synergies with the Peugeot range down the road. And DS? At this point, it may seem redundant, but Tavares claims that PSA will not discontinue any brand. ‘DS will slowly take off, it's a long-term strategy,’ PSA sources confirm.

<img alt="production lines" src="/uploads/2020/02/3.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;" />

Great Savings 
As we’ve already mentioned, it’s mainly the PSA platforms that FCA is interested in. But, in exchange, the latter can offer one fundamental thing – volume. By adding an unspecified number of Fiats, Alfas, Lancias, and so on to the various Peugeot, Citroën, and Opel vehicles, the production lines will be optimised – allowing for more favourable prices from suppliers. It’s estimated that this synergy will generate savings amounting to 3.7 billion Euros (approximately `29,000 crores) a year for the new entity.

<img alt="Jeep Wrangler" src="/uploads/2020/02/jeep-wrangler-jl.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;" />

 
The Case of Missing Expertise 
Let's take an example – the Peugeot 3008 is high off the ground and has muscular fenders, giving the air of an SUV. It also has good traction control, but it lacks four-wheel drive. Brining Jeep on board means not only having a brand that makes money but also the off-road ‘expertise’ that made it famous.

Beyond the global ranking, size matters from the perspective of critical mass, i.e., the production of those kinds of volumes that generate economies of scale. In simple terms, the more cars a manufacturer produces from the same platform, the better it will be able to amortise the costs of development, industrialisation, and manufacturing.

This, however, is only one of the reasons for the merger, which is to benefit both partners in relation to their respective weaknesses. Let's enumerate them. For FCA – its limited presence in Europe, both in terms of marketshare and profits; the scarcity of models for Alfa Romeo, Fiat, and Lancia; and the delay in its electrification and digitisation. For PSA – the geographical imbalance, with the majority of sales and profits concentrated in the Old Continent; its absence in North America; and the lack of premium brands with legacy.&nbsp;

And for both there is the difficulty of penetrating the Chinese market. The merger of the two groups will take care of all these problems (as explained here individually), with the exception of the Asia chapter, and the question regarding employment and factory protection.

<img alt="Peugeot E 208 Gt" src="/uploads/2020/02/peugeot-e-208-gt.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;" />

Electrical Capacity 
PSA has allocated over 5 billion euros (approximately `39,500 crores) for the development of an electrical architecture integrated into the eCMP platform. FCA can benefit from this investment, and also free up resources for other projects. Sure, Turin has the platform for an e-version of the Fiat 500, but access to the e-208 platform (photo) opens up further possibilities, allowing it to electrify both cars and SUVs in the B and C segments.&nbsp;

<img alt="Fiat Electric Car" src="/uploads/2020/02/fiat-electric-car.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;" />

 
The French Cure 
It’s curious that a company that was born in the Old Continent holds a marketshare of just above 6% (after a further decline in 2019), which is lower than that of the Hyundai-Kia axis, or that of the Toyota-Lexus axis. In terms of numbers, the Fiat brand is beaten out even by Skoda. One of the main reasons for this is that FCA has no replacements ready for its ageing range (the Centoventi concept, in the picture below, is one of the few exceptions, but it will not materialise into a production model before 2021). So, in 2018, its sales were 1.3 million – 3% less than in 2017 – and EBIT (its gross profit) was almost halved – 406 million Euros (approximately ₹3,203 crores) as compared to 735 million euros (approximately `5,800 crores) the year before. Profitability was 1.8% (3.2% in 2017). Only Asia did worse. In South America, its operating profit was 4.4% and in North America 12.6% – an example of ultra-premium profitability. For the French, the situation is the opposite – with 80% of its sales in Europe and margins of over 8% - this is what that the Italian-Americans need.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Fca Cmp Platform" src="/uploads/2020/02/fca-cmp-platform.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;" />

Prolific Architecture 
Today, FCA has few products for one simple reason – it has neither the money nor the platforms to make them. The merger with PSA will provide both. The platforms include CMP – which can also be electrified – dedicated to compact cars, but extendable to C segment vehicles too, and the EMP2 platform (pictured above), which can also be electrified and serves both C and D segments. The heir to the Punto and the compact SUVs under Alfa, Jeep and Lancia brands, planned for 2022, can be built on the former. On the latter, the Alfa Romeo Tonale and the new Jeep Cherokee can be based. If the Tipo is to have an heir, it would be easier for it to be based on the extended CMP platform, similar to what will happen to the future Citroën C4. According to the IHS Market, the PSA platforms will be able to produce over 1.5 million FCA cars.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Fiat 500 Production Line" src="/uploads/2020/02/fiat-500-production-line.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;" />

Is there a job for everyone? 
Twenty-one factories dedicated to ‘passenger cars’ and an estimated production capacity of fourteen million vehicles (according to LMC Automotive)! These two numbers contain everything that you need to know about the implications of the FCA-PSA agreement on employment. Today, the two groups produce 8.7 million cars globally. Current production is expected to more than double, which will saturate the European factories. Realistically, this goal seems difficult, however, the ambition of the new giant is certainly to increase current volumes. At the moment, the efficiency of the Italian plants is, on average, between 50 and 60%, while in France it’s around 70%. The gradual introduction of a series of new models will only improve the situation, even if this does not completely ensure protection against staff reduction. This threat weighs on white-collar workers even more than on blue-collar workers, as administrative and commercial structures risk becoming redundant. There are also open questions about engines and transmissions, where rationalisation will be inevitable, in addition to the entire supplier base.

<hr />
<img alt="Carlos Tavares Ceo Psa" src="/uploads/2020/02/carlos-tavares-ceo-psa.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;" />

Carlos Tavares, CEO of PSA, will be at the helm of the new giant. His ability to manage the French group and relaunch Opel makes him the ideal candidate for this role.

<hr />
<img alt="John Elkann Ceo Fca" src="/uploads/2020/02/john-elkann-ceo-fca.jpg" style="width: 642px; height: 336px;" />

John Elkann, current Chairman of FCA and Chairman &amp; CEO of EXOR – the holding company controlled by the Agnelli family (Elkann is the grandson of the former Head of Fiat, Gianni Agnelli) – will become the Chairman of the combined automaker.&nbsp;

© Riproduzione riservata

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Who is going to get what in the automotive wedding of the century?

The FCA-PSA merger is undoubtedly the most important event in recent years in the automotive world. The partnership has made the duo the fourth biggest automotive group in the world, behind Volkswagen Group, Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi, and Toyota (based on the annual sales volume of 2018).

Collectively the two brands registered sales of 8.7 million units in the global market last year making the combination the fourth largest OEM in the world. Together the group will benefit from FCA’s strength in North America and Latin America and PSA’s strength in Europe 

The cat’s finally out of the bag! After endless rumours, FCA Group (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) and PSA Groupe (Peugeot S.A.) have finally announced that the two companies are working on a 50-50 merger. The JV makes it among the largest automaker in the world with combined revenue of $189 billion. Together, the two group companies create the fourth largest OEM with sales of 8.7 million vehicles in 2018 – 4.8 million units of the FCA Group and 3.8 million of the PSA Groupe. With this merger, PSA will be able to make the most of FCA’s reach in the American markets while the latter will capitalise on PSA’s hold in Europe.

As far as the management goes, five Board members would be nominated by FCA (including John Elkann as Chairman) and five would be nominated by Groupe PSA (including the Senior Independent Director and the Vice Chairman). Carlos Tavares would lead the group as a Chief Executive Officer for the first five years. Tavares has been the CEO of the PSA Groupe since 2014. Shareholders of each company would own 50 per cent of the equity of the newly combined group.

FCA and PSA Groupe both have a presence in India. FCA has Fiat, Maserati and Jeep under its umbrella while the PSA Groupe has just announced Citroen’s entry into India next year. The French carmaker is scheduled to launch the Citroen C5 Aircross in India in 2020. There is still no official word on how the merger will affect the two companies in India. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/industry-news/mahindra-two-wheelers-acquires-100-stake-in-peugeot-motorcycles-106756/">The announcement of the merger comes on the same day Mahindra acquires 100% ownership of Peugeot Motorcycles (PMTC). </a>The Nashik-based firm acquired 51% per cent controlling stake in PMTC in 2014 and has now fully acquired the two-wheeler manufacturer.

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FCA and PSA Groupe to join hands

Collectively the two brands registered sales of 8.7 million units in the global market last year making the combination the fourth largest OEM in the world. Together the group will benefit from FCA’s strength in North America and Latin America and PSA’s strength in Europe

After a long five-year stint in India, the Fiat Linea finally gets a makeover. But can this upgrade help the Fiat Linea stay relevant in one of the most competitive segments in the market?

The mid-size sedan segment in India has heated up tremendously over the last year. We’ve just witnessed Honda make a huge comeback with the all-new City, while Hyundai has refreshed the successful Verna – and it would be a difficult task for any manufacturer to compete with these two products. Fiat’s sales, on the other hand, were suffering hugely in the segment, so it came as no surprise that they recently launched a refreshed version of this car. Although the new Fiat&nbsp;Linea has been around in the global market for almost a year now, this late entry into India is an attempt by the Italian carmaker to get back on track in the Indian market – where it’s struggled to grab significant market-share.

A couple of years ago, I had driven the Fiat&nbsp;Linea T-Jet up to the mountains on a road trip, and the car really impressed me. So, there was no doubt in my mind that the Fiat Linea would still be an impressive car to drive – since the engine and transmission setups remain exactly the same, and, of course, it’s got the same solid chassis. The main changes to the refreshed car come in the form of slight design modifications to the exterior, but the interior is where the most significant changes have occurred. The Fiat&nbsp;Linea is a very solidly built machine, and its overall design truly reflect its Italian style. The front bumper has gone under the knife, and now gets a better looking grille. The wheels are sportier, and the ground clearance has been raised by 5mm. Inside the cabin, you’ll notice the completely new dashboard that features a two-tone finish and a more premium feel. The AC vents are round, and, along with the in-built audio system, now has a glossy black finish. The instrument cluster has also been redesigned, and it can be customized according to the driver’s wishes – and there’s also a digital trip computer screen that displays additional information.

<img alt="Fiat Linea Interior" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-25579" src="/uploads/2014/04/driven-fiat-linea-april-2014-pic4.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 375px;" />

We got our hands on the Fiat Linea Multijet, which features the 1.3-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine. This unit pumps out a healthy 92bhp, but the 209Nm of torque makes it more interesting. Unfortunately, the diesel engine does feel sluggish at low revs, and, from a standstill, it does take a while to pick up speed as there is some turbo lag – you only really feel the torque come into full effect after 2,000rpm. The 5-speed transmission works well, and the clutch is quite light in its operation. The highlight of this car, however, is its handling – which is stellar at all speeds. Another character trait of note, which continues on this refreshed model, is its high-speed stability. The hydraulic power steering works like a gem, with good feedback from the road – and the Fiat&nbsp;Linea is always very composed.

The Fiat&nbsp;Linea also comes with some new technology, such as automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers, and cruise control. Then there’s the Blue&amp;Me system that allows the driver to use his or her voice to command the audio system, or to answer calls and receive texts from the phone via Bluetooth. It also gets added safety features, such as dual-stage front airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. If that isn’t enough, the diesel engine – thanks to its turbocharger – provides a fuel economy figure of around 20km/l, which is very impressive indeed.

So, now that the Fiat&nbsp;Linea finally has some additional firepower, Fiat will be hoping to rake in additional sales. However, they have some work to do to catch up with the other automakers who offer products in this segment. To achieve that goal, Fiat is already working hard to set up a new dealer network across India and make their cars more accessible. So, even though the Fiat Linea is a good car, with a very attractive price tag, the brand still has yet more work to do before it can assured of success in India.

<img alt="Fiat Linea Rear View" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-25581" src="/uploads/2014/04/driven-fiat-linea-april-2014-pic2.jpg" style="width: 700px; height: 375px;" />

[tabs] 
[tab title="Fiat Linea"]

Engine: 1248cc / 4-cylinder / DOHC / Turbocharged

Fuel: Diesel

Transmission: 5-speed manual

POwer:&nbsp;92bhp @ 4,000rpm

Torque: 209Nm @ 2000rpm

Price: Rs.9.72 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi)

[/tab]

[/tabs]

Fiat Linea Review, Test Drive

After facing exorbitant competition from mainstream sedans, and a long five-year wait, the Fiat Linea gets a facelift. We get behind the wheel of the Fiat to find out how good it is.

Fiat Linea

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