Fiat, a Stellantis brand, has launched the fully-electric Topolino in the U.S., targeting a niche market with its small size and low speed. This two-seat microcar, weighing just over 1,000 pounds and measuring about 8 feet long, is designed for resort towns and neighborhoods, not highway travel.

With a top speed of 25 mph, the Topolino competes with low-speed vehicles and high-end golf carts. It offers unique features like optional rope "doors" and a roll-up soft-top roof. The vehicle has a range of up to 46 miles on a full charge and lacks an air-conditioning system.

The introduction of the Topolino presents an alternative to rising new vehicle prices, though its limitations mean it won't meet traditional passenger car safety standards. This move by Fiat signals a strategy to capture a specific consumer segment seeking affordable, urban-focused electric mobility.