AVWWG - Fiat reveals all-new 500e 3+1 EV

What you see here is another vehicle we won't get (AVWWG). the Fiat 500e 3+1. It's a pity on many levels. Firstly, the 500 and the 500e are small. sub-compact, city cars that are made for the cities and hills of Italy, but don't play well in the wide open spaces of the US's mid-west and other areas. But Fiat had some initial success with the 500 in the US when it was first released mostly in cities and urban areas. But with FCA's handling of Fiat vehicle updates, US customers lost some interest due to the mild updates or evolutions rather than major revisions. While the all-new 500 is changed and you can see it in the pics and video, without a big marketing push by FCA (Fiat/Chrysler Automobiles), most US customers wouldn't notice (evolution not revolution). But the one change that would be welcomed is the new 3+1 model (shown above) that has three doors for vehicle entry and the rear hatch. Sub-compacts are hard to get into, especially the back seat, if you're more than 10, but the 3+1's small rear passenger door takes care of that problem. The rear door is hinged in the back providing a large(er) opening for entry but the front door must be open for the rear door to be activated. This a good idea that many automakers have used to improve on the accessibility of small cars. Just look at BMW's i3 for instance. BMW has sold thousands of its i3 EV city cars and Fiat could as well with this new version of the 500e. We shall see. FCA is going through a tough time right now, so the funds may not be available for the push that the new 500e 3+1 would require for success. It's a shame too because the updates that have been made to all 500s are substantial and bode well for any customers. They'll sell bunches of these in Italy and the rest of Europe. For lots and lots of information about the new 500s and the 500e, check out the informative (Euro) media release after the "read more" jump. Also, enjoy the video below. Who knows, maybe FCA will have a change of heart and bring the 500e 3+1 to the US. Bring that one and the Cabrio, in EV form, and leave the rest at home, Consider it FCA.

Source: Fiat/FCA - media release, video, and pics