Fiat has introduced the Multiplina, an electric concept car that channels the spirit of the 1956 Multipla but on a smaller scale. Measuring just 3.04 metres long, this small four-seater aims to combine ultra-compact dimensions with practical space for urban mobility, positioning itself between a classic minicab and a conventional city car.
A Modern Take on a Space-Savvy Classic
The Multiplina draws inspiration directly from the original Fiat 600 Multipla, which famously packed six passengers into 3.5 metres back in the 1950s. Fiat says the new concept is not a retro revival but a fresh interpretation of the same philosophy: making the most out of minimal space. Its exterior features a forward-placed windshield, a two-tone body, rounded LED headlights, and simple steel wheels with body-coloured hubcaps—all designed with a nod to the past but using modern styles.
The concept is an electric monovolume with four seats, measuring 1.40 metres wide and 1.53 metres tall. Inside, the cabin appears minimalist with essential controls and a basic instrument panel. Fiat envisions the Multiplina as a practical, no-frills urban vehicle designed to handle daily tasks like commuting, school runs, and short errands efficiently.
Quadricycle Classification Raises Questions
Currently, the Multiplina is presented as an L7 heavy quadricycle, a category of small electric vehicles with reduced regulatory requirements but some limitations. For example, quadricycles often cannot use highways, restricting their versatility. Fiat may reconsider this classification as the European Union is working on a new category called M1E that combines the flexibility of quadricycles with stricter safety rules, although this category is still under development and not finalized.
Fiat’s new brand chief, Arnauld Belloni, has indicated that another small electric vehicle, named Koala, will represent Fiat in the M1E category. The Koala reportedly won’t follow a retro design approach like the Multiplina, which leaves some uncertainty about Fiat’s final plans for the Multiplina’s market positioning.
Unconfirmed Technical Details and Launch Timeline
As a concept, the Multiplina does not yet have confirmed technical specifications. Fiat has not revealed battery size, motor output, or platform details, nor if it will share architecture with the previously introduced Topolino quadricycle. Stellantis, Fiat’s parent company, has hinted at a production model appearing before 2030, but no exact dates or markets have been announced.
The Multiplina concept highlights Fiat’s ongoing effort to create compact, lightweight electric vehicles that maximize interior space without unnecessary complexity. Whether this approach will lead Fiat to produce a small city EV that bridges the gap between minimal quadricycles and standard small cars remains to be seen.
Source: motor.es