FIAT Teases Five New Next-Gen Panda-Based Concepts

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, each automaker is striving to redefine itself, particularly as the industry moves towards more electrification. One such brand is FIAT, which plans to unveil a series of new conceptual vehicles based on the next-generation Panda, one of its most popular European nameplates.

These new concepts share the same philosophy: “Functionality should never exist without fun.” FIAT has announced that each concept will eventually make it to market, with the first unveiling on July 24th. Following this, a new model will be launched every year until 2027.

With a focus on producing the next-generation Panda for a worldwide audience, FIAT states that the new Panda and its variants will be available with electric, hybrid, or internal combustion powertrains. Moreover, FIAT asserts that each vehicle has been designed for production in any region globally, raising questions about whether the Panda will be introduced to the North American market. However, FIAT has not provided a definitive answer on this matter.

“FIAT is a global brand with 1.3 million cars sold last year and solid leadership in many parts of the world,” said FIAT CEO Olivier François. “We are in a global game, and our next step will be to transition from local products to a global offering that can benefit all our customers worldwide. We are excited to share this glimpse into our future, a very near future, actually, since the first car will be presented in four months during the brand’s 125th-anniversary celebration. That car will then be followed by one new model every year.”

In total, FIAT has teased five conceptual vehicles:

City Car – 

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The first concept is a new ‘city car.’ Bigger than the current Panda, this new ‘Mega-Panda’ has a design inspired by the brand’s birthplace: the iconic Lingotto building in Turin, with its famous rooftop test track. FIAT’s designers were inspired by some of Lingotto’s special features when creating the new design language, including structural lightness, space optimization, and brightness. Meanwhile, the oval shape of the “La Pista 500” track on the roof made its mark on some aspects of the new model’s interiors, from the dashboard to the display and seats.

Moreover, FIAT is putting a special emphasis on the use of sustainable materials, including recycled plastics and bamboo fabrics. The brand also aims to remove barriers to more sustainable mobility, including making plugging and unplugging easier with a “self-winding cable.” The high driving position and robust design make this city car the perfect ally for customers worldwide, especially in crowded urban environments. But, at the same time, it offers roominess and versatility for family weekend trips and vacations.

Pickup –

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The second concept is a new pickup concept. FIAT is the market leader in South America, with the Strada pickup being the best-selling vehicle in the Brazilian market (also sold as the Ram 700 in Mexico). Moving forward, FIAT is certain this type of vehicle can replicate its success at a global scale, even in Europe.

FIAT is looking to create a subcompact pickup that is fun and functional with a focus on value. The pickup blends the functionality of a light commercial vehicle (LCV) and the comfort of a crossover in a size suitable for most urban environments around the world. With more people taking up outdoor activities since the pandemic, the pickup concept was designed to get the most out of one’s lifestyle on a budget. The pickup concept reminds us of the Citroën Oli concept.

Fastback – 

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For the FIAT brand, the Fiat Fastback in Brazil and the Fiat Tipo in the Middle East and Africa (MCA) were two significant successes for the brand. The fastback variant aims to follow in its footsteps and establish itself globally in Latin America, the MCA, and Europe. With its fastback roofline, this concept looks to add a more modern and youthful look to its crossover layout.

SUV – 

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The fourth concept is a new spacious SUV, which FIAT calls a sort of ‘Giga-Panda.’ Much larger than the current Panda, the new SUV concept looks to meet the traditional customers’ ultimate needs in terms of safety, versatility, and design, bringing roominess and robustness to families around the globe.

Camper – 

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The last teased concept is a camper design. The camper pays homage to the 1980s Panda, recalling the versatility of a car made for the city with the features of a small SUV. The new do-it-all vehicle looks to blend FIAT’s ‘Dolce-Vita’ style and reconnect people with nature.

Which concept is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below, share whether you’d like to see any of them reach the North American market.