The FIAT Grande Panda gets a new battery: it now achieves 400 km of range.

Stellantis’ Smart Car platform is a cost-effective multi-energy architecture that underpins a wide range of models from the Franco-Italian-American group: Citroën C3 and C3 Aircross, FIAT Grande Panda and Grizzly, Opel Frontera... Its electric version offers three battery sizes (30, 44, and 54 kWh). Until now, the highest-capacity battery pack was reserved for the larger models (C3 Aircross, Grizzly, and Frontera).

However, as we reported a few days ago, it was only a matter of time before the smaller models (C3 and Grande Panda) also received it. And sure enough: FIAT has just added this battery to its lineup in the Netherlands, suggesting that it will likely be available in other European markets soon.

The FIAT Grande Panda with a 54 kWh battery is rated for 400 km of WLTP range, a significant improvement over the 320 km WLTP range of the 44 kWh model. In the Dutch market, the price difference between the two versions with identical equipment is only 2,000 euros. Since the 44 kWh variant in Spain starts at 22,950 euros, the version with a 54 kWh battery could cost 24,950 euros.

This places it on par with entry-level versions of models such as the Renault 5 or Volkswagen ID. Polo, which have WLTP ranges of 305 and 323 km respectively. FIAT’s advantage over most of its competitors in the B-segment is clear: it costs as much as its cheaper variants yet offers a range close to that of the more expensive ones. Therefore, it is a choice worth considering seriously.

Will the new battery arrive in the Citroën ë-C3?

So far, Stellantis has not confirmed whether the 54 kWh battery will also be available for the Citroën ë-C3; however, since it is essentially the same model as the FIAT Grande Panda, it would be logical for this option to eventually be offered. The French SUV is currently one of the most popular electric cars in the European B-segment, and this addition would likely help boost its sales even further.

In Spain, the 30 kWh ë-C3 costs 17,350 euros, while the 44 kWh version is priced at 19,950 euros. As can be seen, it is slightly cheaper than the Grande Panda. If the 2,000 euro difference seen in its sibling model persists, a hypothetical 54 kWh ë-C3 would cost 21,950 euros before any subsidies, a price that is quite competitive and could even put it ahead of its most aggressive Chinese rivals.

The new 54 kWh battery is of the LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) type, just like those with 30 and 44 kWh capacities. This chemistry is renowned for its affordability, longevity, and high safety standards, which is why more and more brands are opting for it. Regardless of the battery pack size, all electric models based on the Smart Car platform use an engine with 113 HP (83 kW).

Source | Motor.es