The event at the iconic Lingotto building marks the beginning of a new era for FIAT, with the unveiling of the new Grande Panda model and the promise of a sustainable and accessible future.
FIAT has just celebrated its 125th anniversary with the “Smiling to the Future” event at the historic Lingotto building in Turin. The celebration not only commemorated more than a century of success and leadership in the automotive industry, but also introduced the new Grande Panda model, marking the beginning of a new era for the Italian brand.
Celebrating a Milestone
The celebration of FIAT’s 125th anniversary at the Lingotto building in Turin was a monumental event, attended by members of the international press and representatives of public and private institutions.
Notable attendees included the Minister for Enterprise and Made in Italy, Sen. Adolfo Urso, the Vice President of the Senate, Sen. Licia Ronzulli, and the President of the Piedmont Region, Alberto Cirio. Also present were senior executives from the Stellantis Group, including John Elkann, President of Stellantis, Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, and Olivier Francois, CEO of FIAT and CMO of Stellantis.
John Elkann, President of Stellantis, highlighted the evolution of FIAT since its beginnings in 1899: «FIAT was born in 1899 with a passion for progress. It represented freedom of movement for millions of people, and did so with style. For 125 years we have not stopped working, looking for solutions and believing in our future.«.
Stellantis CEO, Carlos Tavares also stressed the importance of FIAT in the Stellantis group: «As one of the most iconic brands in our Stellantis constellation, FIAT brings true Italian flavour to the hearts of our customers around the world. FIAT leads in four domestic markets: Italy, Brazil, Turkey and Algeria. I would like to thank everyone who appreciates FIAT and works hard every day to ensure another 125 years of rich history.«.
For his part, Olivier Francois, CEO of FIAT, highlighted the social relevance of the brand: «FIAT has been synonymous with social relevance for the past 125 years, offering our customers what they really need according to the times they live in. Today we are launching FIAT’s return to the global market based on three pillars: Italian design, global platform and local relevance.l».
Glimpse into the Future: The Great Panda
The event also served as a platform for the launch of the new Grande Panda model, the first of a new generation of FIAT vehicles.
The Grande Panda has been developed under three fundamental pillars: Italian design, global platform and local relevance. This new model marks FIAT’s return to the global market and will be available in electric and hybrid versions, offering more than 199 miles of autonomy in the combined WLTP cycle.
The Grande Panda not only reflects Italian heritage in its design, but also incorporates innovations such as the integrated coiled charging cable, which makes the charging experience easier and saves space in the trunk.
This ingenious design is a tribute to the iconic Panda from the 1980s, known as the “jeans” of the automotive industry for its versatility and suitability for any occasion.
Innovation and Italian Design
Designed at the FIAT Centro Stile in Turin, the Grande Panda features a unique aesthetic with structured lines and soft yet robust surfaces that highlight the wheel arches. The interiors pay homage to the Lingotto building’s track, with a dashboard inspired by the shape of the track and evocative styling that creates a distinctive atmosphere.
A Legacy of Inclusivity and Mobility
Since its inception, FIAT has demonstrated a strong propensity towards internationality, with models produced all over the world, keeping its heart and soul in Turin. Today, with the Grande Panda, FIAT begins a new season characterised by inclusivity, ingenuity, Italian style and a global spirit.
FIAT House: A Museum for History
The anniversary also marked the opening of Casa FIAT, a museum exhibition created by the Pinacoteca Agnelli in collaboration with FIAT.
The exhibition traces the history of the brand and its relationship with the Lingotto building, from the company’s foundation in 1899 to its most recent evolution. Casa FIAT offers a complete immersion in the FIAT universe, with thematic areas including automotive design, architecture and society.
Fiat 500e
All of this follows the launch earlier this year of the iconic Fiat 500e in the North American market. This all-electric model has been enthusiastically received, offering a modern and sustainable option for FIAT enthusiasts in the United States.
With a starting price of $32,500 and lease options starting at $299 per month with a 2.9% APR, the 500e represents FIAT’s commitment to affordable electric mobility.
The Fiat 500e combines classic Italian style with modern technology, providing sufficient range for everyday use in the city. In addition, the 500e is designed to be as practical and fun to drive as its predecessors, but with the added benefit of zero emissions.
In short, the “Smiling to the Future” event not only celebrated 125 years of FIAT, but also presented an exciting vision for the future of the brand. With the launch of the Grande Panda and the inauguration of Casa FIAT, the Italian brand reaffirms its commitment to innovation, sustainability and accessible mobility for all. This historic milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter in the rich history of FIAT, a story that promises to continue to be written with success and global relevance.
Source: geeksroom.com
