The retro heavyweight quad looks like a miniature version of the Fiat 500 with a canvas roof and ropes instead of doors
If you thought the New 500 was the smallest electric Fiat you could buy, think again as the automaker has launched the Topolino. Acting as the Italian counterpart to the Citroen Ami and Opel Rocks-e, this heavy-duty zero-emission four-wheeler will soon be available in European markets with distinctive styling.
In Italian, “Topolino” translates to “little mouse,” but the term has become synonymous with the Disney character Mickey Mouse. It was also the nickname given to the original Fiat 500 of 1936. The new version of the Topolino takes styling cues from the adorable and iconic Fiat 500 of 1957, which has also influenced the design of the 2007 and 2020 urban models. However, the Topolino stands out as the shortest among all 500 models, with a length comparable to its Citroen counterpart at 2,410 mm (95 in).
The new Fiat Topolino shares many design cues with its larger counterpart, the 500. It features round headlights, fake metal bumper pads and mirror caps, and pill-shaped taillights. The canvas upper adds to its appeal and gives it a charming resemblance to a miniature 500.
When viewed from the side, the Topolino draws attention with its distinctive rope handles in place of traditional doors, reminiscent of the classic 500 Jolly. For the presentation model, Fiat chose a medium exterior color with a matte finish, tastefully complemented by retro-style white wheel covers.
While the available photos and videos only provide a partial glimpse of the two-seater’s interior, we can see some of the fancy upholstery on the dashboard, the Fiat emblem on the steering wheel, as well as the light-colored upholstery on the seats.
It’s likely that the compact electric vehicle will be equipped with an integrated smartphone dock, although it may offer limited amenities as Citroen’s counterpart lacks air conditioning. An interesting feature is the optional rear rack and pannier, providing a stylish solution to expanding the cargo area.
Although Fiat has not provided detailed technical specifications, it is evident from the Topolino’s design, particularly the greenhouse and proportions, that it is a facelifted version of the Citroen Ami. In comparison, the Opel Rocks-e is essentially a facelifted model with minimal differentiation.
The Topolino is expected to share the same electric motor, producing 8 hp (6 kW / 8 PS) and a 5.5 kWh lithium-ion battery with its sibling models. This setup will likely provide a limited top speed of 45 km/h (28 mph) and a range of around 43 miles (70 km).
According to the Italian automaker, the Topolino is designed to offer “mobility and freedom” to even the youngest customers. This is because some European countries have legislation that allows teenagers as young as 14 or 16 to legally drive heavy quads, further expanding the potential customer base for the Topolino.
With the launch of the Fiat Topolino just around the corner, more details about the vehicle are expected soon. Judging by the success of the Citroen Ami in Southern European markets, the new Fiat could be an instant hit if the pricing is right.
