The Fiat Topolino electric microcar was officially launched in the American market with an initial price of US$ 13,995, establishing it as the most affordable vehicle from the manufacturer in the United States and the most economical electric car available at dealerships in the country.
However, the Topolino cannot be used immediately on public roads. This is because, initially, it was certified under the same classification as golf carts, limiting its maximum speed to approximately 30 km/h, a level below the minimum federal requirement for street travel. For this reason, its use is restricted to private areas, such as condominiums and resorts.
Fiat assures that this limitation is temporary. Later this year, before the end of summer in the US, the manufacturer will provide a free conversion kit. This kit allows the model to be classified under the federal Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) category, raising its maximum speed to 40 km/h (25 mph) and adding mandatory items required by legislation, such as an interior rearview mirror, a backup camera, and a pedestrian audible alert.
After modification, the Topolino can drive on roads with a limit of up to 56 km/h (35 mph), according to the standard of most states, although it remains prohibited on highways and interstate roads. The final cost will also change: adding the mandatory shipping fee of US$ 990 to the base value of US$ 13,995, the initial price rises to US$ 14,985 (approximately R$ 77 thousand). For comparison, the direct competitor, the GEM e2, is already available for road use for about US$ 18,990.
Derived from the Citroën Ami—whose platform has surpassed 75 thousand units in Europe and is manufactured in Morocco—the Topolino has dimensions of about 2.5 meters in length, accommodates two passengers, and weighs just under 490 kg. It is equipped with an electric motor of approximately 8 hp, powered by a 5.4 kWh battery, which provides a range of up to 74 km. A full charge takes about five hours using a 2.3 kW outlet. Basic equipment includes LED lighting, seat belts, windshield, defroster, and cell phone holder, while air conditioning, sound system, and airbags are omitted in this LSV category.
In the United States, the vehicle is marketed in two versions, both in Vita Green and equipped with 14-inch retro wheels. The conventional version features a glass panoramic roof and asymmetrical doors, while the Dolce Vita innovates by replacing the doors with ropes and adopting a retractable canvas roof, inspired by Mediterranean style.
