If you’ve been eyeing electric cars but hesitating about the price tag, Fiat just dropped some seriously good news. The Italian automaker has taken a massive $20,000 off their cute-as-a-button 500e electric car, making it one of the most affordable premium electric vehicles you can buy in Australia right now.
The Numbers That Matter to Your Wallet
Let’s talk money first, because that’s probably why you’re here. The Fiat 500e La Prima, which usually costs around $58,180 drive-away, is now available for just $38,990 drive-away. That’s not a typo – you’re saving nearly twenty grand on a brand-new electric car.
But wait, there’s more. If you’re feeling a bit sportier, the performance-focused Abarth 500e Scorpionissima has also been discounted. This little rocket, which packs more power and attitude, is now available from $43,990 drive-away instead of its usual hefty price tag.
The catch? This incredible deal runs from July 10 through September 30, 2025, and it’s only while stocks last. So if you’re interested, don’t sleep on this opportunity.
Why Fiat Made This Bold Move
You might wonder why Fiat would slash prices so dramatically. The truth is, the 500e hasn’t been flying off dealer lots like Fiat hoped. In 2024, only 117 examples found homes in Australia, and through June 2025, just 60 people bought one. These aren’t exactly Tesla Model 3 numbers.
This pricing strategy isn’t uncommon in the electric vehicle market right now. As more affordable options flood the market from brands like BYD and MG, premium manufacturers are finding they need to be more competitive to attract buyers who might otherwise opt for cheaper alternatives.
What You’re Actually Getting for Your Money
The Standard 500e Experience
The regular Fiat 500e isn’t just about the discount – it’s about getting genuine Italian style in electric form. Under the hood sits a 42kWh battery pack that delivers 311 kilometers of range according to official testing. That’s plenty for most city dwellers and suburban commuters.
The electric motor produces 87kW of power and 220Nm of torque, which translates to a 0-100km/h time of 9 seconds. It’s not going to win any drag races, but it’s perfectly adequate for daily driving and actually feels quite zippy thanks to that instant electric torque.
The Abarth: When You Want More Bite
If the regular 500e feels too tame, the Abarth 500e Scorpionissima turns up the heat significantly. With 114kW of power and 235Nm of torque, it shaves two full seconds off the acceleration time, hitting 100km/h in just 7 seconds.
The Abarth also gets unique styling touches, including distinctive 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, Alcantara sports seats with embossed scorpion logos, and – this is brilliant – an artificial sound generator that creates the classic Abarth roar even though it’s electric. Some purists might scoff, but it actually adds character to the driving experience.
Living with a 500e: The Real-World Experience
Daily Practicality
Let’s be honest about what you’re buying. The 500e is a city car first and foremost. With only two doors and seating for four (though the back seats are really best for kids or short trips), this isn’t your family hauler. The boot offers 185 liters of space, expanding to 550 liters with the rear seats folded.
But if you live in an urban environment, these limitations become strengths. The 500e is incredibly easy to park, sips electricity instead of fuel, and in many cities, you’ll get access to restricted areas where petrol cars can’t go.
Charging and Range Reality
The 311km range might sound modest compared to some electric cars, but consider your actual driving patterns. Most people drive less than 50km per day, meaning you could easily go a week between charges in typical use.
When you do need to charge, the 500e supports up to 85kW DC fast charging, which can take the battery from 10% to 80% in about 35 minutes. At home with a standard AC wallbox, you’re looking at overnight charging from empty to full.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
At the new discounted price, the 500e suddenly becomes very competitive. You’re paying about the same as you would for a well-equipped MG4, but getting distinctly European style and build quality. It’s also significantly cheaper than alternatives like the Mini Electric, which starts around $55,650 before on-road costs.
The BYD Dolphin offers more space and similar range for around $31,000 drive-away, but it lacks the premium feel and distinctive character of the Italian car. It really comes down to whether you value style and European heritage over pure practicality.
The Technology and Safety Package
Both versions come well-equipped with modern tech. The centerpiece is a 10.25-inch touchscreen running Fiat’s Uconnect system, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. There’s also wireless charging for your phone, which is surprisingly convenient in daily use.
Safety-wise, you get autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and intelligent speed assist. The 500e earned a four-star ANCAP safety rating, which is respectable for a small car.
Should You Take the Plunge?
This discount makes the 500e compelling for anyone who wants an electric car with personality. If you’re downsizing from a larger vehicle, live in the city, or need a stylish second car, the combination of Italian flair and electric efficiency at this price point is hard to ignore.
The Abarth version makes sense if you want something that feels special every time you drive it. Yes, it’s more expensive, but the extra performance and unique character touches justify the premium for many buyers.
Just remember that this deal won’t last forever. With only stocks lasting until September 30, and given how attractive these prices are, don’t be surprised if popular colors and variants sell out quickly.
The Fiat 500e might not be perfect for everyone, but at these prices, it’s transformed from an expensive niche choice into a genuinely compelling electric vehicle option that deserves serious consideration.