Fiat 500e and Armani - an expensive match made in electric heaven

23 October 2024

The Fiat 500e is a cute little car, but the new Giorgio Armani Collector's Edition promises to take this appeal to a whole new level. Fiat calls it a fashion statement on wheels, and it truly is a testament to Italian design. Fiat and Armani, two iconic Italian brands, have joined forces to create a limited-edition electric car that's as chic as it is eco-conscious.

This isn't the first time these two have collaborated. In 2020, they unveiled a one-off 500e, but this new creation is different. It comes with unique exterior colors and more luxurious interior materials.

The Collector's Edition is available in dark green and a ceramic greige, a shade invented by Armani himself. The exterior design is all about understated elegance. The monochromatic look, with minimal embellishments, is a hallmark of Armani's aesthetic. The most eye-catching feature? The custom-designed wheels proudly display the GA logo. And it turns out these aren't just for show - their subtly three-dimensional surface actually enhances the car's aerodynamic efficiency.

The seats feature chevron stitching and three-dimensional patterns, while the dashboard boasts a laser-cut wood insert that's as soft to the touch as fine fabric. Armani's logo is incorporated throughout the cabin, appearing on the seats, dashboard, interior doors, and even the rear window.

The 500e Giorgio Armani Collector's Edition comes with Full LED Infinity Design headlamps, a glass roof, and a high-end JBL audio system. The 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system supports Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. The power comes from the usual electric motor that delivers 118 hp, and the range remains unchanged at around 199 miles on the WLTP combined cycle. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and a Level 2 assisted driving system are also on board.

To launch this unique collaboration, Fiat has created a glitzy ad campaign titled "Ovation." The commercial follows the 500e Giorgio Armani Collector's Edition as it glides through the empty streets of Milan at night, passing iconic landmarks like the Armani Hotel and the fashion avenues.

This exclusive edition is currently available for order in Europe. A couple of German dealers are already listing it for sale at an eye-watering $46,000 - a big ask for a tiny EV. Fiat has plans to expand the availability to other regions, including the Middle East, Africa, and North America, in the near future. If you snag one, you'll receive a special welcome letter signed by Olivier Francois (CEO of Fiat) and Giorgio Armani himself.

It's certainly an interesting moment for Fiat to introduce the Armani version of the 500e. Although the press release is upbeat about the future of the little EV, the reality is slightly less certain. The production of the 500e hit an unexpected pause recently, with orders drying out quickly. Fiat blamed the lower demand for EVs and even is considering introducing a hybrid version of the 500. Will a most expensive 500e ever fix the demand?

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