Fiat, part of the Stelantis conglomerate, marked its 125th anniversary at Turin’s Lingotto headquarters by unveiling the new “Grande Panda” model, slated for production in Kragujevac. Set to commence mass production this year, the model boasts high expectations, particularly in Turin. CEO Olivier François announced that the “Grande Panda” will feature both fully electric and hybrid versions, aiming for a price tag of under 25,000 euros for the electric variant and around 19,000 euros for the hybrid in Italy.
The official celebration of the successful implementation of the project at the Stelantis factory in Kragujevac is scheduled for July 22, coinciding with the formal announcement of the model’s production in Serbia. This move holds significant promise for both the Serbian economy and Fiat itself.
The introduction of the new B-segment model represents a pivotal step for Stelantis, reviving Fiat’s presence in a segment it hasn’t participated in since the retirement of the “Grande Punto”. Historically, Fiat achieved immense success in this market, with models like the “Punto” reaching circulation figures of 6.3 million vehicles and the “Grande Punto” at 2.67 million units.
The launch of an electric vehicle priced below 25,000 euros positions Fiat competitively against Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers eyeing the European market amid heightened competition at home. Moreover, it benefits from EU tariffs on Chinese electric cars, levied due to Beijing’s subsidies to domestic manufacturers.
The commencement of production in Kragujevac is expected to boost domestic motor vehicle production, employment, commodity exports and GDP growth, as noted by Ivan Nikolić from the Economic Institute in Belgrade. He emphasized that the new model represents a crucial addition to Stelantis’ global vehicle lineup, supporting various energy options and enhancing Fiat’s competitiveness in the compact car market.
The “Grande Panda” will be manufactured in Kragujevac on Stelantis’ versatile global platform, alongside the existing “Panda” models produced in Italy. With expanded dimensions—399 cm in length, 176 cm in width, and 157 cm in height—the new model offers a spacious 361-liter trunk, significantly larger than its predecessor’s 225 liters. The design pays homage to Fiat’s iconic cube-shaped aesthetic, including LED pixel headlights and innovative features like integrated spiral charging cables.
Inside, the “Grande Panda” showcases a cheerful and eco-friendly interior crafted from recycled plastics and bamboo fibers. It features a 10.25-inch central screen, wireless charger, front parking sensors, and a rear camera, emphasizing both functionality and sustainability.
Powered by a 44 kWh battery and an 83 kW electric motor, the electric version promises a range of 320 kilometers per charge. Details on the hybrid variant, expected to integrate a 1.2-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor, are yet to be fully disclosed.
Overall, Fiat’s strategic move to produce the “Grande Panda” in Serbia not only reinforces its foothold in the European market but also underscores its commitment to innovative, sustainable mobility solutions.
