Fiat 600e forced to ditch Italian colors amidst production controversy

Following the a similar crackdown on Fiat Topolino, the company is now removing the Italian flag colors from the rear bumper of its new Fiat 600e. These come hot on the heels of similar controversies surrounding the Alfa Romeo Junior (formerly known as Milano). The issue? All three vehicles are manufactured outside of Italy, yet have been sporting national symbols or names associated with the country.

Italian law takes a firm stance on products implying they are made in Italy, if that isn't the case. The Fiat 600e, manufactured in Poland, is the latest to fall foul of this legislation. Fiat's decision, reportedly an effort to maintain "complete transparency and avoid misunderstandings" about where the car is made, underscores the legal implications of misrepresenting a product's origin.

The Guardia di Finanza, Italy's financial police, last week seized over 130 Fiat Topolinos at the port of Livorno for displaying the Italian flag. The Topolino is produced in Morocco, making the flag display a misrepresentation of the car's origin.

The Alfa Romeo Junior, initially named Milano, had to be renamed due to its production taking place outside of Italy. This series of events has put Stellantis, Fiat's parent company, under intense scrutiny from the Italian government. As the company increasingly chooses to manufacture vehicles in countries with lower production costs, its reputation for Italian authenticity is at stake.

The Fiat 600e, a compact electric crossover, promises a range of 249 miles on a single charge and offers DC fast charging capabilities. It comes equipped with a 54 kWh battery and features a 156-horsepower electric motor. Inside, drivers will find a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster.

Via 1 | Via 2