Fiat 500 USA

New Alfa Romeo Spider in Works

2012-05-23T13:30:00.000-04:00

It ain't easy being an Alfa Romeo enthusiast in America. Here is a car company with the greatest heritage, the greatest emblem and has produced some of the greatest performance cars ever and all you can do is just watch from the sidelines while the cars are sold everywhere else but the USA. Frustrating for sure, BUT there are plans for the storied marque to return this country. Alfa Romeo fans are right now saying "yeah, sure..." and "I'll believe it when I see it". Can't blame them, they've heard it all before. Well now comes news that should tweak that carefully guarded pessimism. Fiat Group Automobiles S.p.A. (Fiat) and Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the joint development of a new Alfa Romeo roadster based on Mazda’s next-generation MX-5 rear-wheel-drive architecture.

Fiat and Mazda will develop two distinctly different vehicles, each with their own style and powered by engines specific to each brand. The sharing of the next generation platform will cut development costs, but also speed the reentry of an Alfa Romeo Spider into the US by 2015. The new Alfa Romeo Spider is expected to be manufactured at Mazda’s Hiroshima, Japan factory.

The Mazda MX5 has developed into a highly capable vehicle over its 21 year heritage and has become the best selling roadster of all time. There is talk of the next generation MX5 weighing as little as 2,000 lbs, so combining this lightweight chassis with say, the 235 HP turbocharged and direct-injected 1750 TBi inline-four that powers the top of the line Alfa Romeo Giulietta, gives you an idea of the performance potential this new Alfa Romeo Spider could have.

This agreement also hints that Fiat and Mazda may partner together in the upcoming future:

“This agreement clearly demonstrates our commitment to Alfa Romeo and the determination to grow it into a truly global brand. By partnering with Mazda, we will be co-operating with the recognized leader in compact rear-drive vehicle architectures in order to deliver an exciting and stylish roadster in the Alfa Romeo tradition. We are appreciative of this collaboration with Mazda and look forward to maintaining a fruitful and continuous relationship,” said Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne.

A new lightweight, high performance Alfa Romeo Spider would be something to celebrate, and may just break Alfa enthusiasts out of their perpetual pessimism. Let's hope everything stays on track...

Quote from Fiat Group Press

More Fiat 500T Rumors

2012-05-22T13:20:00.000-04:00

I posted the first pictures of the Fiat 500T here in March. Now, more Fiat 500T news and rumors have begun surfacing from various sources. The 2013 Fiat 500T is a 500 Sport with a detuned 500 Abarth 1.4L engine. The engine makes 135 HP, or the same as the European Abarth 500.

This car would be slated between the $17,500 Fiat 500 Sport and the $22,700 Fiat 500 Abarth. The figure of $19,000 is often mentioned, again, this is not official, but is a logical assumption.

Transmission will be the heavy duty C510 from the 500 Abarth, but without the equal length driveshafts that the Abarth has . Done, no doubt, to save some money and probably not deemed totally necessary due to the the 500T's lower horsepower figure.

There is also a rumor that the C510 gearbox will sport a sixth gear, however, that would be quite a coup and would mean there is a redesign of a chassis reinforcement that had previously precluded the fitment. This would also guarantee a sixth gear coming for the 500 Abarth for the 2013 model year. We'll have to watch this closely, and personally, I am thinking the long awaited 6 speed Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT) making its debut is a more likely scenario. A very interesting rumor indeed.

Other mechanical news is the car will have a single exhaust pipe and not the dual pipes the 500 Abarth has.

Fiat 500T preliminary engine output specifications:

Maximum Power (EEC)
100 kW @ 5000 rpm
135 HP @ 5000 rpm

Maximum Torque (EEC)
180 N·m @ 1750 rpm
133 ft. lbs. @ 1750 rpm

Remember, this is all very preliminary. Stay tuned...

Read the post on the first images of the Fiat 500T here

The New Abarth 695 Tributo Maserati

2012-05-17T05:00:00.000-04:00

Abarth is unveiling the new Abarth 695 Maserati Edition at the thirtieth anniversary of the Mille Miglia road rally, May 16 -20. If this car sounds familiar, it is because originally this new tribute model was to make its public debut at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show, March 8 - 18, but it was pulled at the last moment, without comment.

This car was originally called the 695 Abarth Tributo Maserati

New name: Abarth 695 Maserati Edition

In the interim, there appears to have been a name change; now the car is called the Abarth 695 Maserati Edition. Previously, it was called the 695 Abarth Tributo Maserati. No reason was given, and it could be just to make it simpler for English speaking countries or be part of a new naming strategy. We'll see if we can find out more information, but in the meantime, here is more about this exciting new Abarth.

The new Abarth 695 Maserati Edition pays homage to its sister company Maserati, and has been thoroughly massaged in keeping with Maserati's high performance and luxury car standards.

The car starts as a Fiat Abarth 500C cabrio and gets the full 'Tributo' performance treatment. Mechanical upgrades include; uprated engine tuning to 180 horsepower, brakes with larger, 305 mm drilled front discs clamped by 4 piston Brembo calipers, Koni dampers, and exclusive 17x7 "Neptune" wheels. An electrically-operated manual Abarth Competizione gearbox with steering wheel control and Abarth "Record Monza" variable back-pressure "dual mode" exhaust complete with hexagonal exhaust tips round out the performance package.

Besides outstanding performance, a car labeled "Maserati Edition" must also promise exclusive luxury and details. This new Abarth doesn't disappoint and captures the elegance of Maserati with distinctive exterior and interior trim.

The exterior features the unique Maserati paint color Pontevecchio Bordeaux complemented by a grey cloth top, Xenon headlights and special "Maserati Edition" badging.

Inside, the collaboration of Maserati and Abarth is in full effect. The seats are upholstered in supple sand beige Poltrona Frau ® leather with "695" embossed into the headrests and the rear side panels and door panel inserts are treated to a stylish flocking effect. Trim includes a matte finished carbon fiber dashboard, black leather steering wheel, aluminium pedals and sill plates, and a carbon fiber kick plate with customised "Abarth 695 Maserati Edition " graphics.

The Abarth 695 Maserati Edition is an exclusive vehicle with only 499 being produced. It and the other limited edition 500 Abarths can be viewed on the new Abarth website called abarthspecialties.com, that debuted during the Geneva Motor Show in March. The new site covers all special edition Fiat 500 Abarth models from the "Opening Edition" in 2008 to the current models and beyond.

Abarth 695 Tributo MASERATI Technical specifications
1.4 16v Turbo MTA 180 HP Engine
• 4 cylinders in line, 4 valves per cylinder, 1368 cm3.
• Power: 180 HP (132 kW) at 5500 rpm.
• Maximum torque 184 lbs-ft (250 Nm) in sport mode at 3000 rpm.
• Supercharged with Garrett 1446 turbo

Transmission
• 5 gears, C510 gearbox family with gear paddles on steering wheel
Suspension
• Abarth Koni front shock absorbers with FSD valve
• Abarth Koni rear shock absorbers with FSD valve
• Lowered ride.

Steering
• Electric power steering with “sport mode”

Brakes
• Floating, perforated and self-ventilating front brakes ø 305 mm × 28
mm
• Perforated rear brakes ø 264 mm × 22 mm
• TTC - Torque Transfer Control

Wheels
• 7×17" alloy rim Tyres: 205/40 R17"

Emissions
• Euro 5 EEC-F5 standard
Emissions of CO2 • 151 g/km

Consumption
• Urban consumption (l/100 km): 8.4
• Combined consumption (l/100 km): 6.5
• Extra-urban consumption (l/100 km): 5.4

Performance
• Max speed >225 km/h.
• Acceleration 0–100 km/h: <7 secs.

This article is an updated repost of the story I did on the 695 Abarth Tributo Maserati back in February.

Fiat Spin to Win Car Giveaway

2012-05-16T10:43:00.001-04:00

Last month, Fiat USA's Facebook page hit 500,000 likes. To celebrate this accomplishment and to thank its fans, Fiat USA started a contest called 'Spin to Win' that will be giving away a new Fiat 500 Sport to one of ten lucky fans. Additionally, if you were one of the first 500,000 people to like the Fiat USA page, you are eligible for $500 off a new Fiat 500 or Fiat 500c.

The Fiat USA's Facebook page has been running fun games and contests over the past few months. These popular contests, along with attention getting TV commercials, have been successful in ramping up brand awareness and have translated to big sales gains since the beginning of the year.

Make sure you visit Fiat USA's Facebook page here to enter the contest. Good Luck!

US Fiat 500 Abarth Upshift Light

2012-05-11T09:43:00.000-04:00

Here is an update on how the upshift light on the US Fiat 500 Abarth works. Previously, I posted a story on how the European Abarth 500 Turbo Boost Gauge and shift light works (read here). On the American 500 Abarth, the upshift light is implemented differently from the Euro Abarth. The upshift light on the US 500 Abarth is a “drag racer’s” shift light – it illuminates 0.3 sec before you hit fuel cutoff, regardless of being in Normal or Sport mode.

The upshift light on the European 500 Abarth operates as a “drag racer’s” shift light only in Sport mode and as a fuel economy reminder light in Normal mode. Speculation attributes the change to the traditional US driver's dislike of fuel economy reminders constantly blinking.

Below is a chart of the recommended upshift speeds for maximum fuel economy published on page 202 of the North American Fiat 500 Abarth owner’s manual.

Courtesy of Chrysler LLC

2012 Fiat 500 Abarth on TV

2012-05-08T13:37:00.000-04:00

MotorWeek, American television's oldest running automotive news magazine, has done a first impressions review on the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth and it looks like they've been stung:

"...what impressed us most about the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is the $22,000 price tag. You don’t have to be on “The Price Is Right” to figure out that that’s a steal. We can’t think of another car packing this much performance for that low of a price."

"...Granted, embracing the Abarth tuned 500 will take a wholesale change in how an American enthusiast views performance cars. But, if you can make that jump, you’ll love every minute and every mile in the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth."

A full Road Test of the Fiat 500 Abarth will air on episode #3136 which begins airing on May 10, 2012. For a complete listing of the public television stations that broadcast MotorWeek, go to motorweek.org and click the “Find Your Station” tab at the top. MotorWeek is also seen Tuesday evenings on Velocity cable channel. Don't miss it!*

*conflicting info shows that the Fiat 500 Abarth road test may air on episode #3137 next week, so be prepared.

Fiat 500 Leads Touring Car Championship

2012-05-06T00:46:00.000-04:00

True to its Italian heritage of building sporty cars, Fiat is the leader in the Touring Car-B Manufacturers' Championship. A Fiat 500 driven by Jonathan Start won the inaugural Touring Car -B Spec race last weekend. In fact, Start, in his No. 00 Fiat USA/SRT/Carbotech Fiat 500, won the first two races of the three races held that weekend.

The recently created B-spec racing series is an affordable way to race late model cars. The series features sub-compact cars, such as the Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Kia Rio, Mazda2, and Nissan Versa. Its double win means that Fiat is leading the the Championship with 22 points, followed by a tie between Mazda and Ford with 16. Honda has 15 points, while Kia has scored 3.

On the racetrack the 101 HP Fiat 500 beat; the 138 HP Chevrolet Sonic, the 120 HP Ford Fiesta, 117 HP Honda Fit, 138 HP Kia Rio, and 122 HP Nissan Versa. Remember this when someone says the Fiat 500 is slow!

Now that the Fiat 500 has proven to everyone that it is a serious contender in the series, we can hope to see more Fiat 500s racing around. Fiat has contingency programs for would be Fiat racers. You can check them out here:

SRT Motorsports FIAT B-Spec SCCA Contingency Program

FIAT USA MOTORSPORTS 2012 Pirelli World Challenge Championships Official Contingency Program

Here is the 2012 Pirelli World Challenge Touring Car B-Spec Schedule of Events

April 27–29, Miller Motorsports Park (co-headliner, NASCAR West). Tooele, Utah (Rounds 1, 2 and 3 for Touring Car B-Spec).
June 1–3, Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix, (with IndyCar). Detroit, Mich. (Rounds 4, 5 and 6 Touring Car B-Spec).
June 22–24, Mosport International Raceway (Pirelli World Challenge Headliner). Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada  (Rounds 7, 8 and 9 Touring Car B-Spec).

Read more about Fiat's impressive start of the Pirelli World Challenge Touring Car Championship Series below:

Fiat 500 B-Spec Leads World Challenge Touring Car-B Standings After Inaugural Race Weekend

Jonathan Start wins first two of three races at Miller Motorsports Park
Start leads the Touring Car-B class after opening weekend

Tooele, Utah , Apr 30, 2012 - In the first ever Touring Car-B class races in the Pirelli World Challenge, Jonathan Start, of Caledonia, Mich., drove his specially-prepared Fiat 500 to two consecutive Touring Car-B race wins on Saturday, April 28 at the 2.2-mile Miller Motorsports Park West Course configuration.

Saturday’s event uniquely featured two 30-minute races separated by just 10-minutes.

Start completed the inaugural race weekend with a fourth place finish in race No. 3 on Sunday, April 29, just missing the podium after a race-long duel at the front of the pack.

“What a spectacular way to start the inaugural racing season with our brand new Fiat 500 B-spec car,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of FIAT Brand for North America, Chrysler Group LLC. “We’re proud of how well the team engineered the car and what a fantastic job Jonathan did behind the wheel.”

Start’s sweep on Saturday plus his fourth-place finish on Sunday gives him the points advantage early in the nine-round drivers’ championship with a 54 point lead over Honda driver Sage Marie (389-335) and 62 point lead over Ford driver Craig Capaldi. Fiat also holds the manufacturers' championship lead with 22 points, followed by a tie between Mazda and Ford with 16. Honda has 15 points, while Kia has scored 3.

Race No. 1 Summary - Saturday, April 28
In an exciting debut race for the new series, Start, in his No. 00 Fiat USA/SRT/Carbotech Fiat 500, battled with the top competitors from Ford and Mazda before taking the lead late in the 17-lap race and going on to finish out in front by 2.171 seconds.

“Race number one was exactly what this new B-Spec should be,” Start said. “Close, tight, and very similar cars all competing hard. I had the race of my life in the fun category. We were able to flip and flop, and we raced each other clean. This is what World Challenge is all about.”

Race No. 2 Summary - Saturday, April 28
With the race No. 2 grid being based on finishing order from race No. 1, Start took off from pole position at the green flag and led every lap to the finish, taking a 1.392-second victory to sweep the doubleheader.

“I raced smart, and I think that’s what it was,” Start said. “I wanted to be smooth, I wanted to be consistent, and I wanted to take care of my tires in the first race and I think I did. I watched the other guys and there were some moves where I was like, you guys are nuts. You guys are going to scrub your tires.

“At the end of the day, it’s two wins in the first round of World Challenge TCB, and I’m happy.”

Capaldi’s Ford and Bailey’s Mazda battled for the second position for most of the race, joined early on by the No. 45 Honda Fit of Sage Marie. Bailey finished second with Capaldi taking the third spot at the checkered flag.

Race No. 3 Summary - Sunday, April 29
Race 3
Jonathan Start began the finale race of the opening weekend in third spot in class and quickly became part of a four-car scrum made up of Start’s Fiat, a Honda Fit and two Ford Fiestas. The battle raged for much of the early part of the race, with Marie's No. 45 Honda Fit trading the lead with Capaldi's No. 86 Ford Fiesta every other lap for the first four.

Start drove hard in his No. 00 Fiat USA/SRT/Carbotech Fiat 500 as the second through fourth place cars battled for second spot. All the fighting for second place allowed Marie to steadily pull away, driving off to a 3.354-second margin of victory.

Conner Ford finished second in class, with Capaldi third and Start came home in fourth.

Press Release: Chrysler Media

Register Now for the Abarth Experience

2012-05-03T15:00:00.000-04:00

The Fiat 500 Abarth. More than just a cool emblem on a fast car, the 500 Abarth is a descendant of legendary performance cars and championship racers. Now, you can drive your 500 Abarth to the grocery store and that will be fun, but you'll miss out on the considerable capabilities of this car. To keep this from happening, Fiat includes "The Abarth Experience", a full day of high performance driving instruction with every purchase of a new Fiat 500 Abarth.

Owners will learn from professional high performance driving instructors how to exploit all the performance of the Fiat 500 Abarth, in a safe and controlled race track environment.

The Abarth Experience Itinerary:

Abarth Autocross — Horsepower. Handling. Brakes. Speed.
Abarth Head-to-Head Challenge — Two Drivers. One Track. Who Will Triumph?
Abarth Driving Dynamics — Learn Precision Skills from a Seasoned Professional.
Abarth Performance Drive — Show Us What You've Got!

Registration for The Abarth Experience is now open. You need to have taken delivery of your 500 Abarth to register and have your VIN handy.

See you on the race track!

The Abarth Experience Website

New Fiat 500X Crossover Image

2012-05-03T12:37:00.000-04:00

Images of the new Fiat 500X crossover have begun surfacing on the internet. The illustration shows curvaceous, almost coupe like body work and contrasts with the more upright Fiat 500L. The sporty styling is sure to go over well with Fiat fans, some of whom have been lukewarm at best over the 500L's practical design queues.

The Fiat 500X crossover is based on the the chassis used by the upcoming Fiat 500L. The Fiat 500L is a much larger car than the regular Fiat 500 (162.9 versus 139.6 inches) and uses the all wheel drive capable, widened chassis of the Fiat Punto and Alfa Romeo MiTo models. Preliminary info says the Fiat 500X will be even larger at approximately 165.4 inches.

Fiat 500L design sketch. The new Fiat 500X crossover seems to pick up on the sporty nature of this sketch and runs with it...

Fiat 500X will be built at Fiat's Mirafiori factory in Torino, Italy. Production is rumored to begin at the end of 2013 with North American introduction sometime in 2014.

Fiat 500 Breaks Sales Records - Again

2012-05-01T12:03:00.000-04:00

The Fiat USA reports that April sales for the Fiat 500 have broken another record. A total of 3,849 Fiat 500s were sold last month, beating the previous month's record total of 3,712 units. This is the third straight month of record sales for the 500.

Fiat has continued to ramp up its marketing and promotion of the Fiat 500 with high profile, edgy ads featuring Charlie Sheen and the the beautiful Catrinel Menghia grabbing the public's attention. Fiat is also hitting social media hard with Facebook contests and events, such as "FIAT Drive for the Fans" (read here), "Abarth Wants You" (read here) and "Score a Scorpion" contest (read here). Keep an eye on Fiat USA's Facebook site this month as they have something in the works.

With the Fiat 500 Abarth hitting showrooms and the streets this month, expect to see an exciting May.

Fiat 500	Current Month	Last Year	Vol Change	Current YTD Total	Last Year YTD Total	Vol Change
April 2012	3,849	882	336%	12,699	1,382	819%
March 2012	3,712	500	642%	8,850	500	1670%
February 2012	3,227	0	New	5,138	0	New
January 2012	1,911	0	New	1,911	0	New

Link to Fiat 500 sales stories archives

Watch all the different Fiat Commercials here

Fiat 500 Abarth Tuner TMC Motorsport

2012-05-01T01:31:00.000-04:00

In our quest to bring the very best information, vendors and dealers to Fiat owners here in America, Fiat500USA.com is happy to announce the well known European tuner, TMC Motorsport, has come on board as a sponsor of the Fiat 500 USA Forum.

Based in the UK, TMC Motorsport has hands on experience tuning the Fiat 500 Abarth and wants to bring its expertise here to American 500 Abarth owners. Below is a little background on TMC Motorsport to better acquaint yourself with the company. Afterwards, make sure you check out their website and stop by their forum and say hello.

TMC Motorsport was started in 2005 by owner Daron Brown, having been involved in the tuning industry for more than 15 years. Since the conception of plug and play tuning devices in 1996 we have actively worked to advance the technology of these devices to provide very similar results to ECU remapping without making permanent changes to the vehicle.

This type of system is now very popular amongst new car owners with concerns about losing their warranty by making permanent changes to their car. Also, since 2009, many new cars have security locked ECU’s and can’t be remapped without breaking open the ECU to program directly to the processor inside with soldered cables. These units now account for more than 70% of our business and are sold around the world.

In 2010, after selling plug in tuning kits to many owners of the new Abarth 500, TMC bought an Abarth Punto Evo with the new 1.4 MultiAir engine. We had visited car shows in UK and really liked the Abarth brand with its unique style and very punchy 1.4 turbo engine. It was great looking, full of character and, more importantly, a very easy car to upgrade in many ways. The stock suspension and brakes were fine for the 135 bhp the car had, but when upgraded to over 160 bhp these were clearly inadequate.

Abarth themselves offered the Esseesse upgrade kit, which included upgraded brakes and wheels and a power hike to 160 bhp, but the price tag was quite high and many owners could not afford to do it and were looking for cheaper but high quality alternatives. This is where we saw a niche in the market to supply parts at an affordable price but still giving top quality brand names.

Since 2010 the Abarth market has evolved quite rapidly and spread around the world, albeit in small numbers. Even with the world economy in recession, there was still a strong following for this iconic brand and more and more companies started to produce custom upgrades for the cars.

Just recently the Abarth 500 has been launched in the US and Canada, initially in quite small numbers and with some minor body changes, additional safety features, and the Abarth Punto Evo 1.4 MultiAair engine, which is more powerful with just over 160 bhp in stock form, has more torque than the older 1.4 T Jet engine and produces lower emissions. This engine is a real piece of engineering genius, having won engine of the year for two years in a row, and in the Abarth 500 will make the perfect match of performance and economy.

Over the last year our range of parts for Abarth cars has grown enormously. We can now offer performance upgrades up to 237 bhp and we are currently working on a 250 bhp and 300 bhp conversion. We have a range of suspension and brake upgrades including the massive 10 pot Tarox brake upgrade. We also offer many body styling parts including carbon fibre and a wide choice of alloy wheels, seats and accessories to make each Abarth unique to your own taste.

We have also recently signed a one year deal to sponsor Sarah Franklin, who is one of the few women racing in the British Production Car Championships. In a converted Abarth Assetto Corse track car, Sarah is having a very successful year so far and TMC is proud to be part of that success. Working with this race team has also given us access to buy Assetto Corse parts direct from Abarth and offer them to our customers, where they were previously not available to the public. These include the famous rear wing, OZ racing alloys, hood air intakes, front grille, and front splitter.

Although there have been mixed reports about differences between the EU spec Abarth 500 and the US spec, there are many things that we already know for certain: our exhausts, if fitted as cat back or turbo back systems, will fit US models perfectly (we have already fitted them) and the wheels and brakes are the same as US models. Suspension is also fully compatible, so is our plug in tuning kit.

Some parts, however, will not fit. The stunning Sabelt race seats will fit in the US car but as the US model has some additional safety features in the seats, like weight sensors and active head restraints besides the side airbags, there would be a lot of work involved bypassing these features, which we believe would deter most buyers.

Given the launch of Abarth in US, we started to look for a means of communicating with potential US and Canadian customers, and worked out a deal sponsoring the FIAT 500 USA FORUM to have an open arena to discuss Abarth and try to answer any questions that new or potential Abarth owners may have.

So, to finalize, I would like to say a big hello to all of the forum members, and please feel free to ask any questions you have regarding Abarth or any of the parts we offer for them. There is a time difference of 6-8 hours between UK and US, so please allow for this in awaiting a response.

Our website address is www.tmcmotorsport.com and you will see the Abarth section in the products drop down menu. If there are any parts you would like that you don’t see, please ask as we can source almost anything Abarth.

The email address is info@tmcmotorsport.com and the same address is used for MSN and Windows Messenger. SKYPE address is tmc-motorsport and contact number including UK dialling code is 001 44 2890 507999.

Again, thank you for allowing TMC to be part of your forum. I know you will enjoy your Abarths as much as I enjoy my own and I look forward to answering any questions you may have.

Best Regards,
Daron

TMC Motorsport

TMC Motorsport on Fiat 500 USA Forum

TMC Motorsport website

Fiat 500 Abarth Track Day

2012-04-29T01:11:00.000-04:00

An everyday, track ready car. That is what Fiat calls the Fiat 500 Abarth. More than just a marketing gimmick, the metal has been tested. Somewhere in Europe right now, Abarths are racing from cone to cone, clipping apexes and taking checkered flags. After the fun, they will be driven back home, most likely flat out, on the autostradas, autoroutes and autobahns of Europe. In the video below, watch the Fiat 500 Abarth driver enjoy using his car on track day.

The Abarth 500. Soon coming to US racetracks everywhere...

Fiat 500 Abarth Video Daydreams

2012-04-28T13:56:00.000-04:00

Waiting for your new Fiat 500 Abarth? Here are a few videos that will keep you going until you get your phone call...

Power you can feel...and hear | FIAT 500 Abarth

In the Presence of the Scorpion | FIAT 500 Abarth

Pro-Styling for Pro-Performance | FIAT 500 Abarth

Race Inspired Design | FIAT 500 Abarth

Source: FIAT USA

Fiat 500 Abarth After-Run Coolant Pump

2012-04-26T16:25:00.000-04:00

The Fiat 500 Abarth has been gone over from stem to stern to make sure it delivers reliable performance, whether on a racetrack or on your local commute. These cars receive heavy use in Europe on the racetrack during track days and club events, not to mention being run flat out on the Autobahn (and Autostrada when no one is looking). One such feature of the Fiat 500 Abarth that helps guarantee reliability is an after-run coolant pump (ARCP) that circulates coolant through the turbocharger's housing to cool down the turbo when you turn the car off. Here is how it works:

The after-run pump is used to circulate coolant though the cooling system when the key is off and a predetermined temperature is reached. The primary reason for the pump is to help cool the turbocharger to help prevent damage due to heat soaking. The after-run pump is free spinning in the Key ON, Engine ON condition and activated during Key OFF, Engine OFF condition for up to 10 minutes. The pump draws coolant in from the thermostat housing and sends it to the turbocharger when activated. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls the operation of the pump. The inputs to determine pump operation include engine coolant temperature, throttle position and engine off time.

On the 1.4L turbocharged engine, there is an after-run pump (4) located on the right inner fender, bolted to the front of the shock tower (1) . The after-run pump has an electrical connector (3) and two coolant hose connections (2).

So, that noise you hear when you turn off your Fiat 500 Abarth is your friend, the after-run pump, keeping things nice and cool for your next run!

Description and image courtesy of Chrysler LLC

Fiat 500 Abarth Winning Commercial

2012-04-26T10:52:00.000-04:00

Can't get enough of the Fiat 500 Abarth and Catrinel Menghia? Here is a new Fiat 500 Abarth commercial featuring both. Enjoy!

Win a Fiat 500 Abarth Driving Experience

2012-04-25T01:56:00.000-04:00

OK, you haven't bought a Fiat 500 Abarth yet, but you still want to experience what all the excitement is about. Well, here is your chance, because Fiat USA is holding a contest to give its Facebook fans a chance to win a Fiat 500 Abarth Driving Experience. Winning is easy, just follow the link below and vote for your favorite team. The team does all the work and you get to enjoy pounding a 500 Abarth on a racetrack nearest you! Sounds like a good deal, but don't waste time, the contest ends soon!

FIAT Brand Kicks Off ‘Drive for the Fans’ Social Media Contest

FIAT Facebook fans can enter for a chance to win a Fiat 500 Abarth Driving Experience
Winners get a full day of training from professional drivers
Contest runs through Thursday, April 26

Auburn Hills, Mich. - To commemorate the first “Fiat 500 Abarth Driving Experience” the FIAT brand has selected five Facebook fans to participate at a special inauguration drive event taking place in Las Vegas on Thursday, April 26.

The five Facebook participants will team up with five automotive bloggers, five lifestyle bloggers and five professional drivers in a series of driving challenges. The teams will compete for a variety of trips and prizes on behalf of other Fiat Facebook fans (contestants) online.

To enter, contestants can visit www.Facebook.com/FiatUSA and click on the “Drive for the Fans” tab. Fiat Facebook fans will be able to select their favorite team and enter for a chance to win a drive experience for themselves in one of six Fiat Abarth Driving Experience locations across the country. In addition to selecting their favorite team, the “Drive for the Fans” tab also will allow contestants to track the score for each team, learn more about track modules and view on-site video and photo coverage of the track experience.

“Every Fiat 500 Abarth owner will have the opportunity to attend an ‘Abarth Driving Experience’ at six locations across the country throughout the year,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of FIAT Brand for North America, Chrysler Group LLC. “We wanted to provide our loyal Facebook fans with a similar opportunity so they can enjoy first-hand the “small but wicked” spirit of our Fiat 500 Abarth while also enhancing their driving skills."

Each team will compete in a four-part driving challenge comprised of:

Driving Dynamics – Slip behind the steering wheel to learn about the racing line, braking points and how to pick up the Abarth’s 160 horsepower
Autocross – A race against the clock using electronic timing (accurate to 1/1,000th of a second) to determine the fastest driver
Head-to-Head – Two vehicles go head-to-head as each driver works to tame the track, master the machine and beat their opponent
Performance – A time-trial competition where the fastest driver wins. Drivers will put the knowledge from Driving Dynamics together with the inspired performance of the Fiat 500 Abarth.

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Go here to the FIAT USA Facebook site and vote for your team!

Press Release courtesy of Chrysler Media

Fiat 500L Design Approach

2012-04-24T13:34:00.000-04:00

The Fiat 500L will bring advanced European small car design to America when it debuts next year. In this video, Roberto Giolito, head of Fiat and Abarth Design, lets you in behind the scenes of some of the concepts and thinking that went into the design of the new 2013 Fiat 500L.

A Look at the Design of the New Fiat 500L

2012-04-19T12:40:00.000-04:00

Fiat has released design details on the upcoming Fiat 500L, the new 5 passenger Multi-Purpose Vehicle that is coming to Fiat dealers in 2013. The Fiat 500L is the evolution of Fiat family car design that stretches back over 112 years.

The 1912 Fiat Zero was to Italy what the Ford Model T was to America, except the Fiat was more advanced with a suspension and drivetrain that had more in common with the 1928 Ford Model A.

Beginning with the original 1899 Fiat 4hp model and cars like the 1912 Tipo Zero, Fiat has always brought transportation to the masses showcasing intelligent and often ingenious automotive design.

1936 Fiat 500 Topolino

There are numerous examples. The 1936 Fiat 500 Topolino is considered the first modern small car. Created by legendary automotive design engineer Dante Giocosa, it was designed from the inside out and was a marvel of space utilization.

1956 Fiat 600 Multipla. Three row seating for six passengers in a car the same size as a new Fiat 500.

The 1956 Fiat 600 Multipla introduced Cab Forward design and was able to seat 6 passengers with luggage within a length of just 139 inches. Then in 1969, a thoroughly modern small car turned the world upside down with the introduction of the Fiat 128. This acclaimed car had an overall length smaller than a VW Beetle, yet had more legroom than a Cadillac Eldorado. The front wheel drive car featured a transverse overhead cam engine, separate gearbox, electric cooling fan, rack and pinion steering and strut suspension. These specifications sound familiar today because the Fiat 128 pioneered and set the pattern for the modern front wheel drive car.

1969 Fiat 128

Fiat's design leadership has continued throughout the successive decades: the 1980 Panda, 1984 Car of the Year Uno, the innovative 1998 Multipla and, of course, the 2007 Fiat 500 to name just a few award winners.

Enter The New Fiat 500L

Now with the new Fiat 500L, we see the next step in Fiat design. The Fiat 500L advances the Multi-Purpose Vehicle concept with an expansion of room, versatility, convenience and personalization.

To explain the concepts and goals the design team had when creating the 500L, Fiat has just published a book that tells its story. The following are excerpts taken from "500L, a Fiat Design Approach" that touch on some of the design points. The book is at the end of this post for your convenience.

Andreas Wuppinger - Chief Designer Exterior - Fiat Design

Can you tell us about the creative procedure that lead to the production of the 500L? What aspects represented the guidelines for the 500L project?

When asked to develop a new model for the L segment, to which the so-called “leisure activity vehicles” belong, we immediately considered the loss of appeal of many products on the market and asked ourselves how we could give a large usable internal space and a bit of emotionality back to limited external size; something that belongs to our history and our technical capacity.

Starting from the experience gained with the 500, we tried to transfer the same imagination to the new typology, accentuating however the concept of versatility. The objective was to define a line that would not undergo a rapid obsolescence, with a unique look and boldness of construction.

What are the features that characterize the 500L’s external design and what considerations inspired them?

The 500L is characterized by continuous glazing, large apertures towards the outside and a highly liveableinternal space. The design of bodywork inspires a sensation of safety obtained through a high belt line, the accentuated shape of the wheel arches and a raised driving position. As a point of reference we did not, however, consider the SUV, which often has a negative connotation: grandeur, high consumption and almost shielding one from the outside.

Here the process is the opposite; I feel protected inside the car but have a great view of the exterior; the clutter of the bodywork is reduced but the space available inside is maximized.

How does the 500L compare to other vehicles in the “L” segment when it comes to size?

I believe that the 500L is primarily a highly functional car, capable of offering a surprising space for passengers and luggage in a little over four- metre length. However, this has a duplicate structural and with it formal reasoning: the 500L expresses its prerogative, but also a particular visual identity.

We have tried to optimize the volumes that have a technical function to the advantage of liveability. At the same time we wanted to show a design “honesty”, excluding particular expedients that then, however, were not born out in the vehicle’s true prerogatives. The answer adopted in the design of the windscreen,with the split uprights, shows how one can obtain a fundamental requisite for safety and with it a coherent and original physiognomy.

Virgilio Fernandez - Chief Designer Interior - Fiat Design

In conceptual and product definition terms, what solutions were adopted for the interior of the 500L?

The basic principle was that of applying a logic to every feature, to every individual aspect regarding the 500L interior; a logic in the sense of ease of approach, interface, colloquialism, simplification, congruence and even humanity.

The safety but also the pleasure given by the windscreen that allows a wide view, the raised position of the driver and passenger seats, the sensation of airiness, even if inside an automobile, hark back to an idea of harmony between the objects and the surrounding scenery.

Specific attention was then paid to determining the shape of all the other features, from the dashboard to the door panels, from the design of the steering wheel to the smallest details, evocative of the vehicle’s physiognomy.

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The Fiat 500L is going to be an exciting edition to Fiat Studios when it arrives here next year. While you are waiting, make sure you check out the book below and you will see what I mean!

Fiat 500L, A Design Approach

With thanks to Fiat SpA and Chrysler Media

New Fiat 500L Car Factory Opens

2012-04-17T12:28:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, there was an opening ceremony in Serbia for Fiat’s most advanced car plant. This factory will produce the new Fiat 500L, the larger 4 door MPV style vehicle Fiat will introduce here in the US for the 2013 model year.

Mirko Cvetkovic, Prime Minister of the Republic of Serbia, together with Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat SpA, inaugurated the new Fiat car production facility in Kragujevac.

More than 150 guests from the political and business arenas attended the ceremony together with workers.

In welcoming the Prime Minister, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne paid tribute to Serbia’s significant program of modernization which has created “a dynamic environment that is attractive to foreign investors. It is a great privilege for Fiat to be able to participate in the country’s future growth”.

This opening represents the conclusion of three years of extensive and comprehensive work at the 1.4 million square meter site, which included improvements to the surrounding infrastructure, new roofing for the plant, new production shops, land remediation and the installation of world class machinery and production systems. A total of approximately $1.3 billion (€1 billion) has been invested at the site.

The Kragujevac plant will produce the new Fiat 500L, which had its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show this March. The 500L will be exported to markets in Europe and around the world with commercial launch planned for the last quarter of 2012.

Pre-production Fiat 500Ls began being manufactured yesterday with serial production to begin at the end of May. By the end of the year, 30,000 units are expected to be shipped from the Montenegrin port city of Bar to markets abroad. The factory's output target next year is 160,000 cars. Price of the Fiat 500L in Europe is estimated at €16,000.

The paint process at the Fiat Mirafiore factory in Italy

By the end of 2012, some 2,400 people will be employed at the plant plus a further 1,000 with suppliers at the nearby supplier park. Once fully operational, the plant will have a production capacity of up to 200,000 cars per year.

Adapted from Fiat SpA press release
Images: Fiat SpA

New North American Fiat 500 Abarth Brochure

2012-04-16T13:54:00.000-04:00

Fiat USA has recently sent Fiat Studios a new Fiat 500 Abarth brochure. The brochure is a beautiful 25 page booklet, and like the 500 Abarth, is destined to become much sought after. I suggest getting to a Fiat Studio to pick one up as soon as you can. While you are waiting, here is a view of the brochure for your enjoyment!

Fiat 500 Abarth USA Brochure - Fiat500USA

Visit the Official Fiat 500 Abarth Site

New Fiat 500 Abarth Making its Way to Dealers

2012-04-16T00:02:00.001-04:00

FIAT of Austin just received its first shipment of Fiat 500 Abarths

Earlier this month, Fiat began shipping production Fiat 500 Abarths to its Fiat Studios located across the country. The 500 Abarth has been hotly anticipated by waiting owners, some of which have put down deposits on the car over a year ago.

Production at the Abarth's assembly plant in Toluca, Mexico has ramped up as it has been inundated with orders since the order banks officially opened on March 3. The huge demand for the limited production Fiat 500 Abarth has caused Fiat to re-evaluate production numbers for the car and has lead to some delays, most notably to cars with cloth interiors.

When you order a Fiat, the order first goes through various stages where materials and supplies are allocated, manufacturing logistics are worked out; the car is scheduled and a VIN is issued. This can take a week or more, especially if they are waiting for supplies.

Fiat Production Codes and what they mean. These codes describe the various stages in the build process.

Unscheduled:	BX – good order available for scheduling BB – fleet order only – review by bid department BD – special equipment processing BE – edit error – coding error which must be corrected before order can be scheduled BG – order has passes edit but cannot be scheduled regardless of sold status
Reason Codes:	F – finance hold – automatic cancellation after 15 days B – model or option build out L – material restriction M – material hold (fleet) ZA – canceled order
Scheduled:	C – tentative schedule D – firm schedule: serial number assigned, approx time in station – 5 days D1 – gateline: unit sequenced for production, est ship date assigned, Approx time in station – 12 days
Build:	E – framing F – paint G – trim
Built:	I – unit built, pending final inspection J – vehicle passed final inspection but not released to carrier JB – shipped to body vendor JE – shipped to emissions JJ – consigned to body vendor JS – shipped to storage KZ – released by plant and invoiced
Traffic Codes:	KZ L – released but not shipped KZ M – first rail departure KZ N – first rail arrival KZ O – delayed/received KZ OA – plant hold, quality audit KZ OB – zone, dealer, sales, vehicle prep, tax, diversion or derailment hold, dealer refusal, vehicle diverted KZ OC – carrier delay, strike-bound, emission or safety hold, rail car shortage, bad or insufficient load, inclement weather, need shipping order, manifest error KZ OD – mechanical failure, glass damage, vehicle in repair, lacking parts or storage hold KZ OE – mis-dropped or mis-shipped vehicle KZ OF – shipped air freight, stolen vehicle recovered, show vehicle, test info code, vessel sailed KZ OG – damaged vehicle, stolen vehicle, abandon to carrier, vehicle scrapped, donate vehicle, repair and auction KZ OH – all other “O” type carrier codes KZ T – second rail departure KZ U – second rail arrival KZ X – delivered to dealer KZ Y1 – major damage – must not be sold as new KZ Y2 – major damage – vehicle sold at auction
Source:	Fiat500USA.com

After the car recives a scheduled build date (D1 status), it normally takes approximately 2 weeks to go through manufacturing to get to the shipping phase. This is what happens during that 2 week time period: the 500 Abarth is filtered into the assembly line along with other Fiat 500s and Dodge Journeys produced at Toluca. Once on the production line, it takes approximately 16 process hours to make. Cars go through various quality checks, some are given an extended test drive (30 miles or so), then the cars are put in storage until it is their time to ship out.

After the car is shipped out from the factory, depending on where it is going, it typically takes a few weeks to get to a distribution yard, where it is then loaded onto a car carrier for delivery to a Fiat Studio.

For regular production cars, this whole process can take 6 to 12 weeks. However, it can be anticipated that limited production cars can take longer. Contact your Fiat Studio to get your VON (Vehicle Order Number) and track your car's progress online (read about that here). Keep in mind the Fiat online tracking site sometimes lags behind considerably. If this is the case, call Ciao Fiat (1-888-242-6342) to get the latest news.

One of the first truckloads of new Fiat 500 Abarths were delivered Friday to Fiat of Austin, Texas. You can view the images on their Facebook page here. Other 500 Abarths are in transit, heading towards a dealer near you. Call the dealers below... April is Abarth month!

Criswell FIAT of Gaithersburg, Maryland - 1-888-878-2488

FIAT of Austin, Texas - 1-877-908-3428

Palmen FIAT of Kenosha, Wisconsin - 1-888-379-0295

Classic FIAT of Mentor, Ohio - 1-888-431-7186

Capitol FIAT of San Jose, California - 1-888-814-0969

Safford FIAT of Tysons Corners, Virginia - 1-888-716-2490

FIAT of Fredericksburg, Virginia - 1-888-904-4977

FIAT of Larchmont, New York - 1-888-405-2249

or go to the Fiat USA website here to find your nearest dealer.

A Look at the Fiat 500 Abarth Turbo Boost Gauge

2012-04-13T12:08:00.000-04:00

One item that is sure to keep your attention in the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is the turbo boost gauge prominently displayed to the left of the instrument panel.

The engine management system in the Fiat 500 Abarth intelligently regulates turbo boost pressure based on environmental (ambient, elevation, etc.) and engine operating conditions. This way, folks living in high altitudes can experience the full 160 HP and 170 lbs-ft of torque the 1.4 L Turbo engine delivers. The turbo boost gauge indicates the intake manifold pressure (boost level) relative to barometric pressure.

The turbocharger pressure reading on the boost gauge normally runs to 18 psi (1.2 bar) depending on the above condition requirements.

Operation
The warning light in the boost gauge signals the ideal time to change gears. The gear change indication (arrow pointing upwards and words SHIFT UP) displays a suggestion to change up to a higher gear.

With the ignition in the MAR (run) position, the gear change indicator lights up and goes out together with the instrument panel warning lights. Afterwards, the up arrow and the words SHIFT UP light up each time there is a suggestion to change to a higher gear.

Note: The light signalled provided by the instrument depends on the driving mode selected.

With the SPORT mode on, the signalling is only activated at the maximum engine speed.

With the NORMAL mode activated, the signalling is determined by the engine computer to achieve the best driving economy.

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This is one feature that new Abarth owners will thoroughly enjoy!

This information is based on the operation of the European 500 Abarth's boost gauge. The one in the US Fiat 500 Abarth is expected to operate similarly, but check your owners manual for any differences.

Inside the Fiat 500 Abarth Venom

2012-04-07T16:06:00.000-04:00

Can't get enough of the Fiat 500 Abarth Venom concept car? Get your fix here with some images of the Abarth Venom at the 2012 New York Auto Show. Some of these shots have not been published (check out that exhaust!) so enjoy!

Take a look at this video of the Fiat 500 Abarth Venom. There are some shots here of the trunk that haven't been seen. Please excuse the sound and the shaky camera.

Fiat 500 Prima Edizione Number 29 For Sale

2012-04-06T18:00:00.005-04:00

Listed on eBay is my 2012 Fiat 500 Prima Edizione (link). It is with a great deal of reluctance that I sell my car, but it is to make room in my garage for my new Fiat 500 Abarth that I should be picking up next month.

My Fiat 500 Prima Edizione is number 29 off the assembly line, and was purchased online on September 16, 2010 when Fiat opened the order books to those who registered on the Fiat USA website. You can read the story here.

I picked up my Fiat 500 Prima Edizione at FIAT of Larchmont on April 15, 2011 (read here) and it has been blast to own. Along the way, I've installed: wheels (read here), a shift knob (read here) and a set of BfXenon Headlights (read here). Last summer, I drove down to Nashville with my family (read here) and won a third place trophy at the Fiat Lancia Club's national convention.

My car was also prominently displayed at the Fiat USA's Simply More event in Time Square, New York (read here) and a little while back had its first service at FIAT of Larchmont (read here).

It will be tough seeing my Fiat 500 go, but I'm sure its new owner will find it to be a reliable and trustworthy companion.

Check out the listing below:

Fiat 500 Prima Edizione number 29 on Ebay

West Coast Customs Teams with 500 Madness for Custom Fiat 500

2012-04-06T13:11:00.000-04:00

One of the custom Fiat 500s created by 500 Madness

This just in from our friends at 500 Madness:

500 MADNESS, the largest supplier of FIAT 500 aftermarket parts and accessories in North America, provided its expertise to help West Coast Customs (WCC) design a 2011 FIAT 500 Sport Model for their hit TV show Inside West Coast Customs airing on Velocity Network, Sunday April 8, 2012 at 9pm EST/ PST. World renowned for their extreme vehicles, outrageous features and unique designs, WCC depended on 500 MADNESS for many aspects of the custom vehicle.

“We approached 500 MADNESS because we knew they’re the best in the business and would be able to provide any FIAT 500 part we needed for this project,” said WCC Project Designer Meagan Elliott. “Of course, they came through as always and the FIAT 500 ended up being an amazing creation.”

500 MADNESS supplied WCC with custom front and rear bumpers, side skirts and spoilers from Lester, Custom MADNESS Mirror Covers, Custom Interior Upgrades from BLACK and Magneti Marelli, Brake Upgrades by SILA Concepts, Performance Upgrades by Borla and Sprint Booster, MADNESS-designed HID Lighting Upgrades, and other complimentary parts and accessories. In addition, exclusive Lowering Springs were provided by MADNESS to improve the handling and look of the FIAT 500.

About 500 MADNESS:
500 MADNESS is the largest U.S. provider of FIAT 500 accessories, custom body kits, performance and handling upgrades, custom wheels, and much more. With a large number of products in stock (and countless new ones in development), 500 MADNESS helps provide FIAT 500 owners and customizers with everything they need to customize their vehicle.

Based in Signal Hill, CA, MADNESS AUTOWORKS serves as the home to both 500 MADNESS and SMART MADNESS, the largest in stock inventory of parts and accessories for smart cars in the world. Founded in 2008, SMART MADNESS has over 600+ products that are ready to ship, helping drivers and customizers build the perfect smart car for their exact needs and specifications abroad or on site at their Signal Hill, CA facility. For more information please visit, madnessautoworks.com, 500madness.com and smartmadness.com

500 MADNESS is an independent site and company that is not affiliated with FIAT USA, FIAT Group, FIAT ABARTH, or FIAT ABARTH USA. Copyright © 2010 500 , LLC. All rights reserved. 500 MADNESS, and the 500 MADNESS logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of MADNESS AUTOWORKS, LLC. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other company and/or product names, descriptions, or written content may be trade names, trademarks, and/or registered trademarks of the respective owners with for which they are associated.

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Be sure to check out the 500Madness website for all sorts of ideas to accessorize your Fiat 500 and don't forget to tune into Inside West Coast Customs Sunday night, April 8, 2012 at 9pm EST/ PST on the Velocity Network.

500 Madness website

Phone 562-981-6800