Fiat Multiplina: Tiny four-seater must lose weight to make production

Fiat is gearing up to launch a brand-new tiny four-seat EV dubbed the Multiplina, which will feature retro styling cues and measure around the same size as the iconic 1950s 500 as part of the brand’s continued focus on small vehicles. Previewed by the Multiplina Concept at a micromobility event in Vatican City, the production version is slated for 2028. It will sit above the Italian firm’s current two-seat Topolino quadricycle, but below the current Fiat 500 and an affordable electric city car due to be shown later this year. Plans for a four-seat microcar were previously hinted at via a new Quattrolino model mentioned during a Stellantis strategy presentation. Fiat boss Olivier François showcased an image of the new Multiplina during a presentation, noting it will be revealed later this year, likely at the Vatican in October or November.

François highlighted that the Multiplina will be a crucial missing link between the Topolino and a traditional city car. Taking its name from the 1956 600 Multipla, which Fiat dubbed the original people mover, the concept shares a footprint similar to the 1957 Fiat 500. This places its length at just under three metres, compared to the 2.53m Topolino. While the Citroën Ami-based Topolino belongs to the L6 quadricycle category, the Multiplina will be built to L7 regulations, enabling higher speeds and more power. The Topolino tops out at 28mph and offers roughly 46 miles of range from a 5.4kWh battery, but Fiat claims the Multiplina will hit a top speed of 55mph—the maximum allowed under L7 rules—alongside an extended range for better versatility outside city centers.

The Multiplina shares its basic platform with the Topolino and the three-seat Tris commercial vehicle, though it will be extensively reworked to accommodate more space, a larger battery, and increased range. The concept’s styling references the original 600 Multipla through its overall silhouette, vertical nose, and round headlights. François emphasized that the vehicle draws heavily on Fiat’s DNA and proves Fiat will go all-in on micromobility within Stellantis. This urban mobility expansion complements Fiat’s existing lineup of small cars like the 500 and Panda, while the upcoming Grizzly C-segment SUV will serve as the firm’s largest offering. Additionally, Fiat has partnered with Vatican City State to supply a fleet of 30 light electric micromobility vehicles, including Topolino two-seaters and Tris trucks, to support the enclave’s goal of a zero-emissions fleet by the end of the decade under the Ecological Conversion 2030 program.