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Saturday, February 26, 2011

Fiat 500: Life is Best When Driven by Celebration Challenge



In celebration of the launch of the FIAT 500, 52,000 Chrysler employees from all around the world joined together to participate in “Life Is Best When Driven By Celebration” Team Challenge. Each team created original artwork to express their passion for the FIAT 500 and the brand’s values of creativity, personalization and self-expression.

Out of more than 80 teams, five finalists were selected, and now the voting is turned over to Fiat fans worldwide to determine the winner. The selected artwork has been posted on Fiat USA's Facebook page, and voting will take place from Friday, February 25 thru the 27. Go to Fiat USA's Facebook page and vote... NOW!

Go Here To Vote!


Here is more on the Fiat 500-Driven by Celebration Challenge:

Life is Best When Teams Are Driven by Passion, Inspiration and Creativity

Chrysler Group LLC employees are always encouraged to be passionate about achieving, embrace and cherish competition, and express their creativity – most recently in a company-wide, Fiat 500-inspired design contest. Corporate teams representing more than 80 departments and business centers in North America embraced the FIAT brand’s values of creativity, personalization and self-expression by creating their own works of art — exemplifying what the “Life is best when driven by Celebration” Team Challenge meant to them.




“We are so proud of the effort and enthusiasm rallied by our employees through this contest,” said Laura Soave, Head of FIAT Brand North America. “This shows what we are capable of as a company when teamwork, creativity and inspiration are blended together. Not only did the teams enthusiastically take on the challenge, but they really exceeded all our expectations.”


Driven by Celebration
The contest was inspired by the FIAT brand platform, “Life is best when driven,” which celebrates individuals who live life to the fullest. In addition, the team challenge allowed each department to collaborate on their entries in a friendly and competitive environment, while coinciding with the introduction of the new 2012 Fiat 500 (Cinquecento) to the North American market. The “Life is best when driven” platform encourages people to demonstrate how they are driven and inspired – by Passion, by Enthusiasm, by Wonder, and now by Celebration.


Embracing the creativity and self-expression within
Inspired by the more than 500,000 unique ways to personalize the new 2012 Fiat 500, each Chrysler Group department had 10 business days to individualize a 4-foot by 3-foot art canvas with the outline of the new Fiat 500. In addition to the canvas, each department team had to create a 2-3 minute video documenting the motivation and development behind their completed project.


Chrysler Group employees and contractors located in Mexico, Canada and the United States were encouraged to participate in the contest, and all departments – including all offices from Auburn Hills to the manufacturing facilities, to the parts distribution centers and everywhere in between – were represented in the final submissions.


A social competition won via social media
Helping to narrow down the creative talents of more than 80 departments’ entries to five finalists were four guest judges who reviewed and voted on-site and from virtual locations. The judges included Laura Soave, Head of FIAT Brand North America; Roberto Giolito, Head of Fiat Style, Fiat Group, S.p.A.; Ralph Gilles, Senior Vice President of Product Design, Chrysler Group LLC; and Antonio “Shades” Agee, Detroit artist.

The five leading “by Celebration” canvases and the teams’ corresponding behind-the-scenes videos will be posted on the FIAT USA Facebook page this weekend, Feb. 25 - Feb. 27, 2011 and the winning entry will be determined by Fiat enthusiasts worldwide.

A world-class prize & experience
The winning department will receive access to new 2012 Fiat 500 model(s)* to experience for one week, with the keys presented by Chrysler Group and Fiat S.p.A. Chief Executive Officer, Sergio Marchionne. Additionally, the winning artwork will be included in a spread within Ricambi, the official publication of the Fiat Lancia Unlimited Club (FLU). Check out FLU here.

* Number of vehicles used depends on department size.


Press Release Courtesy of Chrysler Media



Friday, February 25, 2011

Fiat Studio Report: Bergstrom Fiat open for Business


Bergstrom Fiat of Milwaukee, Wisconsin is one of the first Fiat Studios open for business in the United States and has been recently interviewed on CNBC.




















Read more about Bergstrom Fiat below:

NEWS RELEASE Contact: John F. Bergstrom
Chairman & CEO
Phone: (888) 616-5893
Bergstrom Fiat website

BERGSTROM FIAT ONE OF THE FIRST THREE TO OPEN IN THE U.S.



Milwaukee, Wisconsin (February 18, 2011) – Bergstrom Fiat is open for business and is one of the first Fiat studios in the United States. Fiat, an Italian-based manufacturer whose cars are stylish, fun, fuel-efficient and unique, recently announced it would re-enter the U.S. market in 2011. Bergstrom is the Fiat retailer in the Greater Milwaukee/ Wisconsin market and eventually will be one of approximately 150 dealers in the United States. The other two Fiat studios open for business are in the Washington, DC and Los Angeles metropolitan areas.



Bergstrom Fiat is located in the Milwaukee Metro Motor Mall at 11100 W. Metro Boulevard. The phone number is (888) 616-5893. Fiat products will complement the current selection of vehicles at that location and will draw guests from all over Wisconsin. The facility will offer new and certified, pre-owned vehicles and include Service and Parts Departments.



The Fiat 500 is available in three models – the Pop, Sport and Lounge. Starting MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) ranges from $15,500-19,500. More information is available at fiatusaofmilwaukee.com.

About Bergstrom Automotive
Bergstrom Automotive, headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, is one of the top 50 automotive retailers in the U.S. and is owned by John and Richard Bergstrom.

The Bergstrom organization sells and services the following franchises: Acura, Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Equus, Fiat, Fisker, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Porsche, Ram, Saab, Scion, smart, Sprinter, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen and Volvo in 30 locations throughout the state of Wisconsin.

Fiat North America
More information about Fiat can be found at Fiat USA

===============================================================

Join me in welcoming Bergstrom Fiat as a new sponsor of this site. They join a growing list of the most enthusiastic and motivated Fiat vendors and Studios in the country. Be sure to check them out at: Bergstrom Fiat

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Fiat 500 by Gucci



The Fiat 500- High style, chic, an icon of design. Now Fiat and legendary Gucci have come together to create the Fiat 500 by Gucci. It is a car that celebrates the best of Italian style, innovative design and creativity.

The Fiat 500 by Gucci will make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, March 3rd to 13th, with a commercial launch in Europe in July. The 500 by Gucci will not be a European only special but will be available to the rest of the world by the end of this year.

That right, we might be seeing the Fiat 500 by Gucci here in the United States! The 500 by Gucci would make an elegant addition to the US 500 lineup, and the possibilities of a North American car are being evaluated. Can't wait? The exclusive 500 by Gucci accessories collection will be available at select Gucci retailers and online at Gucci.com from April 2011.

Learn more about the Fiat 500 by Gucci below:



Fiat and Gucci announce the “500 by Gucci”: a new Italian design icon is born
In the year that sees the celebration of both the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy and Gucci's 90th anniversary, Gucci and Fiat are proud to unveil the 500 by Gucci, a special edition of the iconic Fiat 500 customized by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini in partnership with Fiat's Centro Stile. This unique collaboration between two of Italy's most respected brands represents the perfect - combination of craftsmanship and style. Launched on the opening day of Milan Fashion Week, the 500 by Gucci will also be on presented at the Geneva International Auto Show from March 3rd to13th, in a dedicated Gucci pop-up store within the Fiat stand.



Frida Giannini said, “In the 50s the Fiat 500 created a style revolution when it first hit the road. It quickly become the must-have car of its time. Traveling in style has also been at the heart of Gucci ever since Guccio Gucci founded his company as a producer of leather trunks, suitcases and handbags in 1921. So, when Lapo Elkann suggested the idea of this collaboration it struck me as a perfect opportunity to create a new modern travel statement in this Gucci's 90th anniversary year".



The black and white colors of the 500 by Gucci, in unique eye-catching glossy pearl glass paint, set the stage for a neo-classic black and white film. These two distinct colors complement one another: black, with detailing in shiny chrome paired with interiors that contrast sharp black and white, for a contemporary and racy attitude. White, with satin chrome detailing and ivory and black interiors for a softer, sophisticated look.



The exterior is further personalized by rims for 195/45 R16 wheels, including the unmistakable retro design of the rays, harmonizing with the surrounding exterior colors and representing a novelty for this category of car. The hubcaps feature the interlocking GG in the same color of the body of the car and the cursive Gucci signature appears on the hatchback as well on the door post. The version equipped with 1.4 of 100 horsepower comes with rear break calipers in Gucci green. The car's silhouette is outlined by Gucci’s signature green-red-green stripe, which runs along the entire perimeter and links the exterior to the interior. The stripe also appears inside on the seats, on the gear shift, the key-cover, the carpets, and in an innovative finish on the seat belts. The interior space of the 500 by Gucci is stylish yet functional down to every last detail: chic embroidery, exclusive materials, glossy and satin chromes, the velvety varnish on the “radio board,” the two-toned seats in Frau leather with the Guccissima print.


Frida Giannini and Lapo Elkann


The communications activity behind the worldwide launch of the 500 by Gucci is being developed with the support of Lapo Elkann and his agency, Independent Ideas, and will include a fully integrated above and below-the-line campaign. Commenting on the collaboration, Lapo Elkann said: «I am honored that I was able to connect Fiat and Gucci, especially in such an important anniversary year for Italy. Being Italian, it makes me proud to have contributed to this 500 by Gucci, which brings together the spirit of two brands that so perfectly symbolize our country's savoir faire in the world. It has indeed been very gratifying to work again on the car I love most with Fiat's Centro Stile and with Frida Giannini».



The 500 by Gucci will initially be available from April 1st to June 30th exclusively by pre-order online at www.500bygucci.com, with a list price in Italy that starts from 17,000 euro all inclusive.



The car will also be displayed in exclusive locations in metropolitan cities such as Paris, London and Tokyo, followed by the European commercial launch in July. It will then become available in the rest of the world at the end of the year.





Completing the customization is the exclusive 500 by Gucci collection, including travel accessories, small leather goods, drivers, tracksuits, bombers, driver gloves, sunglasses and a watch, which will be available in select Gucci stores and online at www.gucci.com from April 2011.

Turin 23 February 2011



                          Discuss on the Fiat 500 Gucci Forum

Press release courtesy of Fiat Group Press

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

The Fiat 500 at the 2011 Toronto Auto Show: Reader's Report



Fiat Canada has a strong presence this year at the 2011 Canadian International Auto Show held in Toronto, February 18 thru the 27. The Fiat 500 display is a highlight of the auto show.

A friend of this blog has sent us a report on the Toronto Auto Show. He goes by the user name of peterjerome and has contributed content and pictures to this site on numerous occasions. I would like to thank him for the following post he sent me.

Hello Chris

Here is a little report and photo collection from the Toronto Car Show. As you will see FIAT did a good job of their presentation.



Though you may be surprised to know it, one of the six major International Car Shows in the world is the one that is taking place right now in Toronto Canada. It runs from the 18th to 27th and officials are expecting over 300,000 visitors in that time. FIAT has put together a very impressive display, for what has to be one of their most important markets.



Toronto's metropolitan area has the better part of six million people, with one and half million of them considering themselves to be of Italian origin. Canada in general is very large market for fuel efficient cars, due to our higher costs for gasoline. I read somewhere that Laura Soave and Sergio Marchionne have made a bet as to which country (United States or Canada respectively) will purchase more 500s, notwithstanding the fact that there are ten times as many people south of the 49th parallel. Lastly Mr. Marchionne grew up in Toronto.



The FIAT presentation is very impressive. In an area where the majority of the visitors will enter the show is a display of ten 500s. Close by is the Galleria FIAT with a Sport and Lounge model that are getting a lot of "butts on" visits.



The representatives at the booth are salespeople from local dealerships who are reasonably knowledgeable. The trademark women in white dresses are there for photo shoots. There are also designer couches done in white leather to rest one's weary feet.



From what I can see from the US and Canadian websites, our Pop model is $500 more expensive than the US version, but is also missing speed control and air conditioning. Our Sport is $1000 dearer than the US version. The Lounge models seem similarly equipped and priced. On the US website the Sport and Lounge boast a BOSE premium sound system which seems to have been removed at Canada Customs as well. Thankfully air conditioning can be added to the Pop for only $175 and the BOSE speakers come in at $350. Still the overall price differences must have something to do with retribution for Olympic hockey.



The rest of the show is very good. There is a display called Concorso Exotica. In it are a Nuova 500, an Abarth 600, a Lamborghini Miura S and Countach, an Alfa Giulietta Sprint, and a gaggle of Ferraris, including a 250 GT, a Daytona, a Dino, and an Enzo. If you are in the area in the next little while I suggest a visit.

Visit the 2011 Toronto Auto Show Photo Gallery
===========================================================

Thanks peterjerome for the report!
-Chris

Monday, February 21, 2011

Cast your vote for the Fiat 500: AutoWeek Poll


Do you love the Fiat 500? Don't keep it a secret! Vote for the car with the big personality on AutoWeek's Poll of favorite sport coupes....

Go here to vote!

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Fiat 500 Prima Edizione: Questions and Answers


ATTENTION: This Just In!!
Prima Edizione – Questions & Answers*

1. When will the Prima Edizione vehicles arrive? The vehicle in-transit time from the production facility is typically 17 – 21 days barring any unforeseen weather conditions. Therefore the vehicles should arrive and be delivered by mid-March.

2. Where will the Prima Edizione vehicles be delivered? At approved locations geographically distributed throughout the United States. Each Prima purchaser will have their choice of the approved locations for purchase and delivery.

3. What is the price of the Prima Edizione model? The suggested price for each vehicle is MSRP. However, the final transaction price will be determined between the dealer and the Prima purchaser.

4. How will I contact the Studio to schedule my Prima delivery? The dealer whom is selected for purchase and deliver of your Prima will contact you to set up a convenient appointment. Expect a call by the last week in February and delivery by mid-March.

5. Will the Studio owners receive notice as Prima purchasers select their Studio or all at once? The Studios will be provided a complete list all at once of those Prima purchasers that selected their Studio by February 25, 2011.

6. Is Home delivery an option? Yes, our FIAT Studio owners are excited not only about the launch of the FIAT brand but also the start of the Prima deliveries. In states where home delivery is legally available it will be accommodated.

7.The Home Delivery Process: Once the financial transaction is completed A flatbed truck will deliver the vehicle to the address provided by the purchaser.

  • A FIAT Specialist from the Studio will accompany the delivery driver.
  • They will be dressed in approved FIAT attire and make a proper introduction.
  • The vehicle will be presented wrapped in a vintage FIAT car cover
  • The FIAT Specialist will demonstrate key vehicle features and address any questions.
  • The FIAT Specialist will invite the Prima purchaser back to your FIAT Studio to engage with the team and experience the features of the Studio.
  • The FIAT Specialist will provide their contact information to the customer.
  • Please attempt to capture a Prima Edizione customer photo “if the customer agrees” (We will supply a waiver form to gain their permission to post on our Facebook page, Fiatusa.com, etc.).
  • One week after the delivery a follow-up contact should be made.
8.Where will my delivery take place if my selected FIAT Studio is under construction? In this scenario, the Prima purchaser will take delivery in the delivery area of the future FIAT Studio’s current Chrysler Group store.
9. What are the unique features of the Prima model and why is it so special? To create buzz, excitement, and anticipation around the return of the FIAT Brand to the United States, we produced a limited edition FIAT 500 model called the “Prima Edizione”.
This model was offered to FIAT enthusiasts in the U.S to allow these individuals to express their deep connection to and affinity for the brand. This limited edition of only 500 vehicles was available in only three exterior colors: Bianco (White), Rosso (Red) or Grigio (Gray).
  • Standard features included: Available Options:
  • Unique 16” Aluminum Wheels with black pockets. Power Sunroof(optional)
  • Gloss Black painted roof and side mirrors. Engine Block Heater
  • Unique Prima Edizione badge
  • Black Body Stripe
  • Graphite Instrument Panel Bezel
  • Individually Badged I/P
  • Red Accent stitching
  • Logo’d Floor Mats
10. Why a special model for the FIAT enthusiasts? These Prima customers live and breathe the FIAT brand and have long awaited its return. Their anticipation has reached an all-time high, because the FIAT Cinquecento (500) has earned iconic status worldwide and the FIAT brand is now returning to North America. These individuals have kept this brand alive in the States during our formal absence. It is rare to have such a loyal and passionate group. We felt that it was only right to show them a little love upon our return to the U.S. market.
11. Can I make changes to my Prima Edizione order? The vehicles are already built therefore changes cannot be made. If you would like to change the color or options you will have to purchase another FIAT 500 model, not a Prima Edizione. We ask that you advise us as soon as possible if you are willing to give up your Prima reservation. We have a number of customers on our Prima Edizione waiting list for these situations.
12. What happens to my deposit if I change my mind on my reservation? The deposit will be refunded in full.
13. How will my $500 deposit be reflected in my final purchase price? The Security deposit amount will be applied to the final transaction as a credit.
14. What payment options are available? Consult your selected FIAT studio or financial institution for more information.
15. Can I test drive a FIAT 500 prior to taking delivery of my Prima Edizione? Yes, in many locations throughout the U.S. the future FIAT Studio locations have a FIAT 500 marketing vehicle that is available for test drives. Please contact your local FIAT Studio to see if their marketing unit has been delivered.
16. Does my Prima Edizione come with a warranty? Who will service my FIAT 500? Yes, every FIAT 500 comes with four-year/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranties with Car rental allowance. The Studio that delivers your Prima Edizione will have a specially trained FIAT technician who will manage your vehicle’s service needs.
17. What is FIAT Forward Care? Free 3 Year / 36,000 Mile Maintenance with Wear-and-Tear also 4 Year / Unlimited Mile Roadside Assistance with Trip-interruption Reimbursement.
18. The vintage car covers that my vehicle will be delivered in… can I keep it or is it available for purchase? Unfortunately, due to the limited quantities and cost it is not available for sale. The vintage car covers are provided by us (The Brand) to our Studio owners.
19. What happens to a Prima Edizione vehicle that is not purchased by the original person on the reservation list once it arrives at the Studio? The vehicle will first be offered to those on our waiting list. If the vehicle is not spoken for after offering it to the waiting list, the dealer may elect to keep it as a sellable unit.
20. Can additional accessories be ordered from the Studio after delivery? Yes, please see your Studio for ordering details and availability of various accessories.
21. How does a customer reach out to the FIAT Call Center? 1-888-CIAO-FIAT



*Update at 4:43PM: This is the latest information I've seen and is posted in the interest of keeping this readership informed. To be safe, I would consider this preliminary, and changes could be made, so wait for the official call from Fiat, which should be coming soon.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Friday Fiat 500 Videos


Josh Donnelly from Fiat North America gives a good overview of the 2012 Fiat 500

While we're waiting for the Fiat 500 to arrive at our nearest Fiat Studio, check out these short videos and get familiar with North American Fiat 500.

John McElroy from Autoline Detroit drives the 2012 Fiat 500 Sport


Tom Voelk from Drive takes a look at the 2012 Fiat 500 Lounge


John Lamm from Road & Track drives the 2012 Fiat 500

About the Fiat 500 Marketing Demos



Fiat Studios are being shipped Fiat 500 demos as you read this. These are called Fiat 500 Marketing Units in official Fiat speak, and come in 6 colors: Argento, Rame, Nero, Rosso, Rosso Brillante, and Grigio. All are Sport models and are all equipped with 5-speed manual transmissions.

These Fiat 500 Marketing Units are owned by Chrysler and are not for sale.

Be sure to check out the Fiat USA website to find your closest Fiat Studio.

Visit the Fiat USA Dealer Page

Fiat Studios with Demos

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Fiat 500 Dealer Studios Are Posted



Fiat USA has posted their dealer list on their website. The dealer list includes opening date information as well as a rough map of where each Fiat dealer is located.



Fiat dealerships are properly called Fiat Studios, and when you see one, you'll know why. Fiat USA has created a design specification that captures the excitement and flair of the Fiat 500 and the Fiat Brand. Each Fiat Studio is filled with modern Italian design, they are the perfect place to visit and create your own personalized Fiat 500.


Typical Fiat Studio Showroom Elements


Thanks to Fiat of Austin for Studio Rendering

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Fiat 500 Prima Edizione UPDATE: Shipping


Fiat 500 Prima Edizione reservation holders received another email from the Head of Fiat North America, Laura Soave. This time, she shared photos of the Prima Ediziones being loaded onto rail cars in preparation for shipment to awaiting dealers. Folks that reserved a 500 Prima Edizione will be contacted starting this week to finalize the delivery of their car.

Hi Christian.

The time has finally come! We are preparing for your Prima Edizione FIAT 500 to be delivered.
See for yourself as the Prima Edizione vehicles are loaded and ready to embark on their journey.

Starting this week, a FIAT representative will be calling you to confirm your delivery location. We are so excited that you'll be getting your FIAT 500 soon!

Ciao,

Laura Soave
Head of FIAT North America


Visit the Fiat 500 Prima Edizione Gallery for fullsize pictures


Monday, February 14, 2011

The 2012 Fiat 500: eco:Drive


The 2012 Fiat 500 comes complete with eco:Drive, a software application that analyzes how you drive, offering you suggestions on improving your gas mileage and reducing tailpipe emissions. The eco:Drive application is easy to use: just download it to your PC, connect a USB memory stick to your 500's USB port, drive the car, and then transfer the data to your PC. It's a fun way to improve how you drive and your gas mileage at the same time.


Here is what Fiat North America says about eco:Drive:

The Fiat 500’s eco:Drive Application helps to improve driving efficiency

The new 2012 Fiat 500’s state-of-the-art eco:Drive Application demonstrates that an automaker’s environmental responsibility should not stop when the car leaves the production line but rather extend into the actual way customers drive their cars.


 

Fiat’s eco:Drive Application collects all necessary data relating to vehicle efficiency and, through the BLUE&ME™ USB port, transmits it on to any USB memory stick. Once the driver plugs the memory stick into his or her personal computer, the system presents the driver with the Fiat 500’s detailed environmental performance, including the CO2 emission level for each trip. In addition, Fiat’s eco:Drive Application analyzes the driver’s style and provides recommendations on how to modify his or her driving style to help reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

 

Originated in Europe, Fiat’s eco:Drive Application has encouraged drivers to set challenges – CO2 reduction targets for specific journeys or over a set period of time. And as part of a global “eco:Ville” community, the system encourages all drivers to come together and pool their fuel and emissions savings to illustrate how many drivers’ individual contributions help the greater good.


 

Here is a little more on the eco:Drive software: The eco:Drive software is based on the award winning, Blue&Me™platform, jointly developed between Microsoft and Fiat. This ecological application was developed on Microsoft’s flexible and updateable platform Microsoft Auto (currently called Windows Embedded Automotive). Fiat has worked closely with Microsoft since 2004 developing different software applications such as Blue&Me™ and eco:Drive.



Sources: Chrysler Media, Fiat SpA

Friday, February 11, 2011

Fiat 500 Dealers with Test Drive Cars



Here is a list of Fiat 500 dealers that have test drive cars (demonstrators) and are well on their way to opening. Fiat North America began delivering test drive cars to dealers last month in preparation for their grand openings. These are officially called Pre-Production Marketing Units and are all 500 Sport models. The cars are used to demonstrate and promote the Fiat 500, which is due out March/April. Give these dealers a call to check out the 500, and if you reserved a 500 Prima Edizione car, make sure you contact them to set up delivery:

Alabama
FIAT of Birmingham, Birmingham

California
Motor Village Los Angeles, Los Angeles

FIAT of Concord, Concord

Florida
Fields FIAT, Orlando

Georgia

FIAT of South Atlanta, Morrow

Hawaii
FIAT of Honolulu, Honolulu

Illinois
Fields FIAT of Highland Park, Highland Park

Indiana
O'Brien FIAT, Greenwood

Kentucky
Cardinal FIAT, Louisville

Maryland
Criswell FIAT of Gaithersburg, Gaithersburg

Michigan
Golling FIAT, Bloomfield Hills

New York
Armory FIAT of Albany, Albany

FIAT of Larchmont, Larchmont

Ohio
Bob-Boyd FIAT, Columbus

Yark FIAT, Toledo

Pennsylvania
FIAT of Downingtown, Downingtown

South Carolina
Stateline FIAT, Fort Mill

Texas
FIAT of Austin, Austin

Northside FIAT, Houston

Utah
FIAT of Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City

Virginia
Whitten FIAT of South Richmond, Richmond

Washington
FIAT of Kirkland, Kirkland

Wisconsin
Bergstrom FIAT of Milwaukee, Milwaukee


Attention Fiat Dealers: If you have received your Fiat 500 Marketing Unit, and want to be included on the list, please contact me: chris@fiat500usa.com

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Fiat 500 Prima Edizione UPDATE: Engine



Fiat 500 Prima Edizione reservation holders received another update this week on the progress of their car. This time, a video was sent on the 1.4L MultiAir engine that equips the 500. This is a private video and only folks with the link may view it. I've included it for your enjoyment.



Hello Christian, Prima Edizione Numero 29:

While you wait for your Prima Edizione, we thought you'd like to take a virtual peek at the brilliance that awaits you under the hood.

The FIAT 500 powertrain is designed to fit the way America drives. The award-winning 1.4-liter MultiAir® engine has been paired with a revised ratio five-speed manual transmission engineered for U.S. highways. Together they offer a fun, lively driving experience.

While you are waiting to become a Prima Edizione owner, you get to take an exclusive first-look at this video about the engine.

Stay tuned for more product overviews while your vehicle is being created. By the time it arrives, you'll know it inside and out.

Sincerely,

The FIAT Launch Team

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

The 2012 Fiat 500: Hang on!


Fiat North America had Johnny Kanavas, a well known professional driver, put the 2012 Fiat 500 through its paces during the Fiat 500 Media Event, held this past January. Here is the video for all to enjoy:



Johnny Kanavas is a professional driver with over 20 years of competitive driving experience. Kanavas’ racing experience ranges from go-karts to Touring Cars to professional drifting and 24-hour endurance racing.




Kanavas came away impressed with the car.


You will be, too!


With thanks to Chrysler Media and KANAVAS KOMPETITION

Monday, February 7, 2011

Fiat 500 Prima Edizione UPDATE: Bodywork


Laura Soave, head of the Fiat Brand in North America, sent out another update to Fiat 500 Prima Edizione owners. This time we get treated to seeing the car's body being assembled and welded. Below is the email that was sent.

Hi Christian.

Your FIAT 500 is moving down the line! With every bolt and every weld, its unique Prima Edizione character is starting to break through the surface. The Plant Manager sent me these photos, so I'm sharing them with you.

We're so excited that everything is coming together. The next stop is the paint shop, where it'll get a bold new personality. As soon as I learn more, I'll let you know.

Ciao,

Laura Soave
Head of FIAT North America


Next, we'll see the cars going through the paint shop. Keep an eye out for that report!

Visit the Fiat500USA Blog's Prima Edizione photo gallery for more Prima pictures!

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Fiat of Austin receives their Fiat 500 Test Drive Car



Fiat expects Austin, Texas to be one of its top markets for the Fiat 500. Representing Fiat will be the Nyle Maxwell Auto Group, a family owned dealership Servicing Austin for 16 years. Called Fiat of Austin, the dealership or Fiat studio, will showcase modern Italian looks and design.

Maxwell dealerships focus on taking care of the Austin Community and giving a first class buyers experience. As evidence of this, its Fiat Studio will feature a unique delivery experience where the car is delivered on a rotating stage similar to a fashion runway, surrounded by seating for friends and family, and filming the new Fiat 500 owners accepting delivery of their vehicle.



Fiat of Austin just received their 500 demonstrator and is taking appointments for viewing. Their Fiat Studio is expected to open officially on March 1 and will receive a shipment of 60 to 70 Fiats in the next few weeks, 20 have already been sold.

If you're in or near Texas, give Fiat of Austin a call at 512-944-5472

Visit Fiat of Austin's Website


Sources: http://www.statesman.com/

Friday, February 4, 2011

Stop and Vote Now For The Fiat 500!


You only have an hour left to vote for your favorite car on About.com's Readers' Choice Awards.
Go Here Now!

Voting ends at 11:59PM.

Behind the scenes at the Fiat 500 Press Event



During the last few weeks of January, 2011, Fiat North America hosted a press event for the media. For those lucky enough to be invited, we were treated to discussions hosted by the engineers, designers and leaders of the Fiat team. Toping this off was a drive through some challenging southern California roads.

The videos below give you a taste of what the event was like, some of the discussions and information that was provided.

I have to say the event atmosphere was exceptionally open and friendly, entirely in keeping with the character of the Fiat 500.



The first video has Laura Soave, Head of Fiat North America, taking you for a quick look behind the scenes at the media event held last month in San Diego.



Rick Deneau, Director—Product Communications, welcomed all of us to the Fiat 500 media launch.



Roberto Giolito, Fiat Style Director, discusses the design of the Fiat 500.



Fabio DiMuro, Chief Engineer , describes the differences between European and U.S model Fiat 500.




Soave gave a presentation to the attending media and goes in depth on the car. If you want to know about the Fiat 500, this is a must see.



Soave takes some questions and answers after her presentation.



In this video, Soave gives a quick overview on what the 500 is all about and how the car will be marketed.


Hats off to AutoNetwork for capturing this event for all to enjoy.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Download the Fiat 500 Vehicle App Today!



Stop working and download this App!

Fiat North America has just released their Fiat 500 Vehicle App. This app contains owners manual information with product features, benefits, and Fiat heritage. There is specific information on vehicle operations, vehicle maintenance, instruments and controls, warranty information, and customer assistance. Other features include links to Fiat/MOPAR parts and accessories, Fiat gear and merchandise, and Fiat social media sites.



The Fiat 500 Vehicle App is currently available for Android users, with Blackberry and iPhone apps to follow shortly.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Nominate the Fiat 500 as your favorite car



Attention Fiat fans: About.com is holding their annual Readers Choice Award for your favorite car. Take a few seconds and let them know how much you love the Fiat 500!

Polling ends February 4 at 11:59PM, so don't miss voting!

About.com Readers Choice Awards