Fiat has unveiled two new electric vehicles that aim to offer more space, comfort, and efficiency for families and businesses. The new Fiat E-Doblo and Fiat E-Ulysse are the latest additions to the brand’s growing electric portfolio, which also includes the Fiat 500e, the Fiat E-Ducato, and the Fiat E-Scudo.
The new electric people movers are based on the successful Fiat Doblo and Fiat Ulysse models, which have been on the market since 2000 and 2002, respectively. However, the new versions feature a number of upgrades and enhancements that make them more suitable for the modern and eco-conscious customer.
Greater autonomy
One of the main advantages of the new electric vehicles is their increased range and performance. Both the Fiat E-Doblo electric minivan and the Fiat E-Ulysse are equipped with a 50 kWh battery and a 100 kW electric motor, which deliver a maximum speed of 130 km/h and a range of up to 285 km in the WLTP cycle.
The battery can be recharged in different ways, depending on the customer’s needs and preferences. The vehicles come with a standard 11 kW on-board charger, which can fully charge the battery in about five hours using a wallbox or a public charging station. Alternatively, the vehicles can also use a rapid DC charger of up to 100 kW, which can replenish 80% of the battery in just 30 minutes.
The electric minvans also feature three driving modes that can optimize the battery consumption and performance according to the driving conditions. These are:
- Normal mode, which provides a balanced driving experience and is recommended for regular traffic situations.
- Eco mode, which reduces the power output and limits the use of some accessories to extend the range and efficiency of the vehicle.
- Power mode, which increases the power output and responsiveness of the vehicle, especially when carrying heavy loads or driving on steep hills.
Updated safety technology
Another key aspect of the new electric vehicles is their improved safety and assistance systems, which aim to make the driving experience more comfortable and secure. The vehicles are equipped with 17 passive and active safety features, some of which are:
- Lane Keeping Assist, which helps the driver stay in the correct lane by correcting the steering if the vehicle is about to cross the lane markings unintentionally.
- Traffic Sign Recognition, which detects and displays the speed limits and other traffic signs on the instrument cluster using a camera on the windshield.
- Forward Collision Warning + Active Safety Brake, which warns the driver of a potential collision with the vehicle in front or a pedestrian crossing the road, and applies the brakes automatically if the driver does not react in time.
- Driver Attention Alert + Coffee Break Alert, which monitors the driver’s behavior and alertness through the steering wheel movements and the front camera, and suggests taking a break if the driver shows signs of fatigue or distraction.
- Blind Spot Detection, which warns the driver of the presence of another vehicle in the blind spot zones using sensors on the rear bumper and indicators on the side mirrors.
- Electric Park Brake, which allows the driver to activate and deactivate the parking brake with a simple button on the dashboard.
- Auto High Beam, which automatically switches between high beam and low beam headlights depending on the traffic and lighting conditions.
- Park Assist, which helps the driver find and park in a suitable space by controlling the steering and providing visual and audible guidance.
New design
The new electric vehicles also feature a unique and distinctive design that sets them apart from their conventional counterparts. The exterior of the vehicles has been refreshed with a new front grille, new bumpers, new LED headlights and taillights, and new alloy wheels. The electric minivans also sport the e-logo on the front fenders, the tailgate, and the Fiat E-Doblo and Fiat E-Ulysse badges on the rear doors.
The interior of the vehicles has also been updated with a new dashboard, seats, upholstery, and trim. The vehicles also offer a high level of comfort and convenience, with features such as:
- Uconnect 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as navigation, radio, Bluetooth, and USB functions.
- Wireless smartphone charger, which allows the driver to charge their phone without using any cables or plugs.
- Automatic climate control, which maintains the desired temperature and humidity inside the vehicle.
- Heated front seats and steering wheel, which provide extra warmth and comfort in cold weather.
- Keyless entry and start, which enable the driver to unlock and start the vehicle without using the key.