Fiat Grande Panda Electric: now 400 km range for an extra €1,000

The Fiat Grande Panda Electric will feature a larger battery pack, allowing it to reach 400 kilometers in range. What’s more notable is the price: for an additional €1,000, you get 80 kilometers more range. The standard equipment also changes, though this means the loss of one notable feature.

New version with 80 extra kilometers for €1,000

The Fiat Grande Panda Electric stands out with its angular body design and references to the original Panda. However, its WLTP range of 320 kilometers is rather modest, especially since it drops significantly in winter conditions. Therefore, Fiat introduces a version with a larger 54 kWh battery pack, raising the official range to 400 kilometers.

The existing version with a 44 kWh battery remains available for €26,499, while the new version costs €27,499 on the road. For that extra €1,000, you get 25 percent more range. This is a relatively small price difference, making the larger battery attractive to many buyers. Of course, the actual range you achieve depends on the conditions. Especially at higher speeds and low temperatures, the range will be lower than the WLTP figure indicates.

The same power and familiar retro design

Nothing changes with the electric motor. Both electric versions deliver 83 kW (113 hp), making the Grande Panda well-suited for daily use. The design remains unchanged as well. Its angular shapes, striking lighting, and playful interior details give it a recognizable character with clear references to previous Panda generations.

Fiat isn’t the only manufacturer using its past in the development of new electric models. In our video on retrodesign, we compare the Grande Panda with the Renault 4 E-Tech, which also draws on a well-known design but does so in a different way.

During our first test drive, we examined how the Grande Panda performs on the road and how practical this compact electric car is. The larger battery pack doesn’t change its theoretical driving characteristics, but it does make it more suitable for longer distances.

Standard 11 kW on-board charger, integrated cable removed

Fiat is also adjusting the charging equipment. The previous 7.4 kW on-board charger is being replaced with a standard 11 kW unit. This allows the Grande Panda to charge faster at a suitable three-phase charging station. This is a practical improvement, especially for home charging or at work, provided the available outlet supports the higher charging power.

At the same time, the integrated charging cable that was stored under the hood is being removed. It will be replaced by a conventional, separate charging cable. This is unfortunate because it was a smart and distinctive solution, which was also mentioned during our previous month-long durability test. Fiat is now choosing higher charging speeds but sacrificing some convenience in return.

Three trims and adjusted option packages

The Fiat Grande Panda Electric with a 54 kWh battery is available for immediate ordering in the Pop, Icon, and La Prima trims. Additionally, Fiat has adjusted its range of options and packages. All-season tires are now available for all trims at €400.

For the Icon, the Style package and Tech package are available, both priced at €1,250. The Style package includes roof rails, extra tinted glass, and 16-inch light alloy wheels. The Tech package adds features such as a rearview camera, automatic air conditioning, and a rain sensor. Various combinations with the Winter package are also possible, depending on the chosen trim.

Up to 8 years of warranty, under certain conditions

Fiat offers in the Netherlands the possibility to extend the warranty free of charge for up to eight years or 160,000 kilometers through the Fiat Special Warranty. This program applies to new passenger cars sold and registered in the Netherlands, but it is linked to required maintenance at official Fiat service centers.

After each maintenance visit at an authorized repairer, the coverage is extended until the next required maintenance service. Worn-out parts are not covered under this program. It is therefore not an eight-year unlimited factory warranty, but rather additional coverage with specific conditions.

Larger battery pack makes the Grande Panda more versatile

With a WLTP range of 400 kilometers, the Fiat Grande Panda Electric offers more options beyond daily urban driving. This is a significant improvement, as the limited range of the original version could have been a drawback for some drivers.

The additional cost of €1,000 is relatively modest, especially considering the extra 80 kilometers of range. On the other hand, the smaller version may still be sufficient for drivers who have predictable, limited mileage needs. The choice ultimately depends mainly on usage and how much value one places on those extra kilometers. With the new 54 kWh version, Fiat at least provides an alternative that could be interesting to a broader group of drivers.

Text: Marc Verweij