New details of $11,000 EV with 4 seats and 56 mph top speed leaked

Italian automaker Fiat is exploring how much it can fit into a small urban vehicle. The Fiat Multiplina concept is an all-electric quadricycle that seats four despite measuring just 119.7 inches long. According to a recent media report, the compact city EV could enter production soon. A top speed of 56 mph has been suggested.

Congested city centers are pushing the automotive industry to develop new vehicle concepts. While many automakers continue to introduce ever-larger electric SUVs, Fiat is heading in the opposite direction. Following its debut at the Paris Motor Show, the Fiat Multiplina concept is now attracting attention for its approach to maximizing interior space. According to the manufacturer, it measures just 119.7 inches long, 55.1 inches wide and 60.2 inches tall. Despite these compact dimensions, the enclosed microcar accommodates four occupants. This places the city EV between conventional passenger cars and vehicles limited to 28 mph, such as the two-seat Fiat Topolino.

The electric vehicle is more than a design study, according to a new report from French automotive publication L'Argus. Fiat reportedly has firm plans to launch the four-seater in early 2028. The leaked specifications add to the concept's appeal: the electric Multiplina is expected to reach a top speed of 56 mph, making it suitable for trips outside the city as well. The bigger draw, however, could be the target price. According to the French sources, the city EV is expected to start at around $11,200. That could shake up the affordable EV market and put considerable pressure on established passenger car models.

Fiat drew inspiration for its unconventional city EV from its own history. Introduced in 1956, the Fiat 600 Multipla seated six people despite measuring just 11.5 feet long. The new Fiat Multiplina adapts that space-efficient approach for a modern EV. Its windshield sits far forward, while the distinctive hood and rear air vents echo the original model's styling. The two-tone paint scheme emphasizes the design's focus on maximizing interior space. The developers have designed the electric quadricycle for everyday trips, including commuting, school drop-offs and shopping.

The engineers have prioritized efficiency to reduce resource use. The vehicle's compact dimensions and efficient design require fewer materials to manufacture, reducing its curb weight. According to Fiat, this demonstrates how simpler vehicles can support sustainable mobility without severely compromising passenger space. Although the automaker has yet to officially confirm production plans or detailed battery specifications, the concept suggests a possible direction for urban transportation. If the rumored price of the equivalent of roughly $11,200 and top speed of 56 mph prove accurate, Fiat's four-seat electric quadricycle would buck the trend of steadily rising car prices.

Editor of the original article: Ronald Matta - Senior Tech Writer - 14729 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2007

I have been an editor at Notebookcheck since 2007. As a freelance writer, I have also written for other print and online media, including contributing to the local press. Before becoming a journalist, I worked as a trained network technician in the planning and development of corporate networks, among other things, and as a fashion photographer based in Milan. As a former competitive athlete, my passion for technology and science is complemented by a passion for all kinds of outdoor sports. When it comes to specific subjects, I’m particularly interested in video, photography, smart homes, and wearables.

Translator: Enrico Frahn - Senior Tech Writer - 10740 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2021

My fascination for technology goes back a long way to the Pentium II era. Modding, overclocking and treasuring computer hardware has since become an integral part of my life. As a student, I further developed a keen interest in mobile technologies that can make the stressful college life so much easier. After I fell in love with the creation of digital content while working in a marketing position, I now scour the web to bring you the most exciting topics in the world of tech. Outside the office, I’m particularly passionate about motorsports and mountain biking.