Now the brand is betting on a tiny electric quadricycle with a top speed of 19 mph. It is called the Topolino, and it starts at $13,995, plus a mandatory $990 destination fee bringing the customer price to $14,985.
On Tuesday, Stellantis (STLA) declared that U.S. customers can now order the Fiat Topolino electric quadricycle. According to Stellantis, the vehicle is a quadricycle that operates much like a golf cart.
Olivier François, CEO of Fiat, said: "Topolino represents a new chapter for the brand in the U.S. - defined not just by size, but by purpose. With Topolino, we bring a feeling, a lifestyle, a reminder that mobility can be joyful, expressive and beautifully simple."
Last year, Stellantis revealed its plan to export the car from Italy to the United States. This move came just a week after President Trump complimented Japanese Kei cars at a White House gathering that included Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa and other auto executives. The original wording of that statement has been attributed to a spokesperson, who noted that "the timing had no connection to Trump's remarks," and added that the automaker was evaluating consumer interest at American events like auto shows.
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Trump said at the meeting: "They're very small. They're really cute. And I said, 'How would that do in this country?' And everyone seems to think 'good,' but you're not allowed to build them."
The Topolino, which translates to "little mouse" in Italian, is produced in Morocco. Stellantis stated that the vehicle will be released this year in limited numbers, offering a hardtop version with doors and a Dolce Vita soft-top convertible variant that uses rope in place of doors.
Given its low top speed and limited 46‑mile range, the Topolino is designed for short trips in dense urban areas, college campuses, or retirement communities where traditional cars are impractical. Its quadricycle classification means it avoids some automotive safety and emissions regulations, keeping costs low. This niche approach reflects Fiat's attempt to find a foothold.
Fiat re-entered the American market in 2011 with the 500 model, initially generating strong interest and annual sales exceeding 40,000 units. However, consumer enthusiasm faded over the following decade due to limited model lineup, reliability concerns, and shifting preferences toward SUVs. The Topolino, classified as a quadricycle rather than a standard passenger car, bypasses many federal crash and emissions requirements, allowing Stellantis to offer it at a low price point. This regulatory loophole is similar to how golf carts and neighborhood electric vehicles are sold, but the Topolino adds Italian styling and Fiat branding to attract buyers seeking a unique urban runabout.
The Topolino is a quadricycle priced under $15,000 that is slow and short‑range. Stellantis plans to release it in limited quantities this year.
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