Heritage Hub Presents ‘Unexpected & Surprising FIAT’ Exhibition

• From November 15^th, the public will be able to closely observe 14 “UNEXPECTED&SURPRISING” models among several FIAT masterpieces typically exposed at the Heritage HUB. These selected models showcase brand’s evolution over its first 125 years of History.
• The exhibition is set up simultaneously with “125 VOLTE FIAT” at Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile. This exhibition is also divided into three themes – Innovation, Efficiency, and Fun – each illustrating how FIAT has consistently anticipated automotive trends that later became industry standards.
• Each model on display represents a unique chapter of an all-Italian legend, which still fascinates the world today and will be a source of inspiration for tomorrow’s mobility. 

From November 15^th, the Heritage Hub hosts the temporary exhibition “UNEXPECTED&SURPRISINGFIAT”, an emotional journey through some of the less-known models in the long automotive history of the Italian brand, highlighting its ability to evolve constantly. After all, FIAT has continuously surprised the world with innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and bold choices of its models. This remarkable exposition at Heritage HUB takes place at the same time as the exhibition at MAUTO “125 VOLTE FIAT”, set up to celebrate the 125^th anniversary of the iconic brand.

The exhibition focuses on three themes – Innovation, Efficiency, and Leisure.  The first theme is highlighted through models exemplifying the moments when FIAT boldly explored new technological and design horizons, offering innovative solutions ahead of their time. In addition, Efficiency is seen as the balance between cost, fuel economy, and the smart use of space and resources. Lastly, the theme of Leisure is expressed through models that reflect FIAT’s playful and light-hearted side, focusing on attractive design, sporty performance, and a bit of eccentricity.

Designed for car enthusiasts, families and especially youngsters, the exhibition offers an immersive experience in the FIAT world, accessible by purchasing the standard Heritage HUB entrance ticket. For more information and reservations, please visit the official Stellantis Heritage website or the dedicated page at the following link.

Innovation
Born in the twenties, the Fiat 520 (1927-1931) was one of the first vehicles produced by the Turin automotive brand to adopt the six-cylinder engine, a technical solution once dedicated to luxury cars. This model, with an elegant design and advanced mechanics for that time, represented a significant step forward in FIAT’s car production, demonstrating the company’s ability to compete with the most prestigious brands, so much so that it was nicknamed “Super Fiat”. The public was also curious about the Fiat 100 (Prototipo 600, 1955), from which the famous Fiat 600 was derived, one of the greatest commercial successes of Italian motoring. Although the production model has undergone several changes compared to the initial prototype, the Fiat 100 represents the beginning of the automotive revolution that led to mass motorization in Italy. The exhibition also allows the admiration of the Fiat Scia (1993 Concept), a concept car that explored new frontiers in automotive design. With futuristic lines and innovative technical solutions, this car represented a bold vision of the future, showing FIAT’s ability to dare with futuristic designs. The spotlight was on Fiat Vanzic (1995 Electric Concept) who envisioned a future in which electric cars would dominate cities. With a compact and functional design, this concept car combined the performance of a city car with that of a small delivery van and anticipated many of the features we see in modern electric vehicles today. Finally, the exhibit features the Fiat Trepiuno Concept (2004), a revolutionary take on urban mobility with a modern and innovative design, which led to the creation of the new 500 three years later.
 

Efficiency
Known as the “Topolino,” the Fiat 500 “C” Giardiniera Legno (1948-1953) with its wooden bodywork is one of the rarest and most distinctive versions of the 500. Primarily intended for commercial use, this small wood-bodied station wagon offered a blend of functionality and retro charm, standing out for its unique aesthetic and practical yet elegant spirit. The Fiat Campagnola AR 51 (1951-1974), a rugged and reliable off-road vehicle used in numerous conflicts and peace missions, is equally remarkable. Designed for the Italian army, this vehicle with its simple, but effective design reflects FIAT’s commitment in producing vehicles for both the civilian market and military purposes. The Fiat 600 Multipla (1956-1967) is also exhibited. This car is one of the first minivans in history, well before the term became commonplace. This compact and functional vehicle could seat up to six people in an innovative design for its time, making it a versatile choice for large families and commercial use.A very different model, the Fiat Panda Militare Steyr Puch (1986-2003), was created in collaboration with Austria’s Steyr-Puch. This was a reinforced, military-adapted version of the popular Panda 4×4, combining the Panda’s practicality with the toughness needed for difficult terrain, once again showcasing the versatility of FIAT’s models. Lastly, visitors can get an up-close look at the Fiat Multipla Bluepower (1999-2010), an eco-friendly version of the well-known minivan from the Turin-based company, powered by natural gas. This variant highlighted FIAT’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions, combining the Multipla’s practicality with a low-emission engine.
 

Fun
The Fiat Uno Turbo Trofeo (1985-1994) is the sportiest and most high-performance version of the popular Fiat Uno. Designed for racing competitions, this lightweight and powerful car offered exceptional performance, becoming an icon for racing enthusiasts in the 80s and 90s. Space also for the Fiat Barchetta Prototype Coupé (1995), a closed version of the famous spider from the 90s. This model, which unfortunately was never produced, exhibited a charming and sporty design, combining the grit of a coupé with the elegance of a small boat. The Fiat Panda Jolly (2004) is equally spectacular. This model is a modern reinterpretation of the famous Italian beach cars, such as the historic Fiat 500 Jolly. Designed by the Fiat Centro Stile, this exclusive version of the Panda is characterized by an open design without doors and an interior covered in water-resistant materials. Designed for summer life and seaside use, the Panda Jolly is a unique style exercise, combining the practical and versatile character of the Panda with a touch of elegance and retro charm. This concept car was conceived as a tribute to the Italian beaches and Dolce Vita, evoking the relaxed and carefree atmosphere of the 60s. The Fiat 500 Barbie Edition (2009) is making a bold visual statement. This is a shocking pink 500 created to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of the famous doll, demonstrating FIAT’s ability to blend pop culture and automotive design in surprising ways. Lastly, the same “vacation” spirit of the Panda Jolly is found in the Fiat Qubo Spiaggina (2012), a fun, beach-ready version of the versatile Qubo, designed for recreational use at the seaside or as a shuttle for hotels and small communities. This model marked the launch of one of FIAT’s most successful vans, available in both family and professional (Fiorino) versions.

Turin, 14 November 2024