Following the unveiling of the all-electric 2024 600e, Fiat has now revealed the 600 Hybrid, a much less electrified variant of the Italian automaker’s compact crossover. Although it only has a tiny battery and a small engine, it will be able to do a surprising amount with it. Offered as a mostly internal combustion alternative to the all-electric Fiat 600e, the new hybrid version combines a 99 hp 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine with a 28 hp electric motor. The electric propulsion system is housed within the six-speed electric dual-clutch transmission, and allows the 2024 Fiat 600 Hybrid to travel at speeds of up to 30 km/h on electricity alone. However, at that speed, the 48-volt lithium-ion battery would be depleted in just 1 km.
Therefore, Fiat suggests that the electric
motor and battery are better suited to helping quell turbo lag. The 600 Hybrid
accelerates from 0-100 km/h in a leisurely 11 seconds. In addition,
the motor can be used while the vehicle is stuck creeping along in traffic or
while it’s parking to keep the engine from burning fuel unnecessarily. Fiat
claims that a belt starter ensures that the changeover from the motor to the
engine is seamless and silent. Combined with the engine’s Miller combustion
cycle, the automaker says that the electrification system helps the 600 Hybrid
cut fuel consumption, and reduce CO2 emissions by up to 15 percent.
Like the 2024 Fiat 600e, the 600 Hybrid
measures in at 4.17 meters in length and has 15
liters of storage throughout the cabin, in addition to a 385-liter trunk. It also has seating for five passengers, who can rest on
exclusive recycled fabric upholstery with white accents. The black bio-based
plastic dashboard fascia helps further hint at the vehicle’s environmental
ambitions.
Inside, drivers will also be treated to
paddle shifters and a Powermeter to show them their energy flow while on the
move. Buyers who opt for the higher trim La Prima model will get Level 2
assisted driving technology to ease the driving burden. The 2024 Fiat 600
Hybrid will be available in Italy, and in other markets where the adoption of
EVs is slow enough to require an alternative to the 600e. Prices will start at
€ 24,950 (US$ 25,654) in its home market.
