Rumor: Fiat 500e becomes asymmetric

The compact-sized Fiat bestseller changed generations several months ago, becoming an all-electric car named 500e (take a look at the pics and the video if you missed it). The current lineup includes three-door hatchback and two-door convertible versions, but the latest rumor claims an asymmetric version called Trepiuno might join the range later this month.

Trepiuno was the name of the show car that preceded the previous-gen Fiat 500. By the way, the old gas-powered model is still in production in Tychy, Poland. The rumored newcomer will have an extra door on one side that will open against the traffic and will weight approximately 30 kilos (66 lbs) more than its symmetric counterpart. It will also forego the b-pillar for the added door. It remains unknown whether there will be a handle on the outside of said door.

The asymmetric door layout in uncommon in automotive industry because it sacrifices the b-pillar and therefore compromises the integrity of the body. This can be especially dangerous in the event of a sideways collision. The first-gen Mini Clubman had something like it implemented, while the Mazda RX-8 and the Brazil-made old-gen Fiat Strada had “suicide doors” opening against the direction of the oncoming traffic. The former is no longer produced, however, and the latter duo have since traded their doors for normal ones.

Insiders say the asymmetric Fiat 500e will slot right between the hatchback (€34,900) and the convertible (€37,900) in terms of price. Pre-orders for the electric compact started in March, but coronavirus disruption caused the shipment delay until 2021.

The electric car relies on a single 120-hp (90-kW) electric motor that takes it from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in nine seconds. Its 42-kWh battery is WLTP-rated for 320 kilometers (199 miles) of range.