Engineering:Fiat Ecobasic

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Fiat Ecobasic
ECOBASIC (cropped).jpg
An example exhibited by FCA Heritage
Overview
ManufacturerFiat
Production1999–2000
AssemblyItaly
DesignerRoberto Giolito
Body and chassis
ClassConcept car
Body style5-door hatchback
LayoutFront-engine, front-wheel-drive
PlatformFiat Mini platform
RelatedFiat Panda
Powertrain
Engine1.2 L JTD Multijet 16v common rail
Transmission5-speed automatic
Dimensions
Length3,480 mm (137.0 in)
Width1,710 mm (67.3 in)
Height1,490 mm (58.7 in)
uk|uk|Kerb|Curb}} weight750 kg (1,653 lb)

The Fiat Ecobasic is a concept car designed by the Italian manufacturer Fiat and presented in December 1999 at the Bologna Motor Show and exhibited in March 2000 at the Geneva Motor Show.[1]

The purpose of this concept was to prove that it was possible to design and build a car capable of transporting four adults in a structure made of fully recyclable composite materials and whose production and operating costs were ultra-low.[2][3]

Overview

Rear view
Front grille

The Ecobasic has been homologated according to Euro NCAP standards; moreover, the materials that cover the structure are all recyclable.[4] The design of the concept has been studied in the wind tunnel, boasting a drag coefficient of just 0.28.[5]

The front grille included a sort of transparent hatch that gave direct access to the coolant and oil reservoirs, as well as the positive and negative battery terminals.[6] After manufacturing 10 units of the Ecobasic, the brand decided not to put it into production.[6]

References