Meet America’s Most Affordable New EV: Compact as a Ping-Pong Table and Limited to 19mph

When hunting for an affordable electric vehicle today, compromises are inevitable. You’ll need to weigh how much range you’re willing to give up, the amount of legroom and cargo space you can live with, and the features you want—all while aiming for that sweet price point that won’t empty your wallet.

Enter the Fiat Topolino, a prime example of these tradeoffs. Priced at just $13,995, it offers a top speed of 19 mph and an all-electric range of 46 miles, all packed into a wheelbase that’s barely longer than one and a half king mattresses. Essentially, the Topolino is less of a car and more of a micromobility solution.

Fiat is upfront about this positioning. In its recent announcement about the Topolino’s launch in the US, the automaker, part of Stellantis, described this pint-sized EV as part of the “fast-growing micromobility space.” (They also referred to it as “a little piece of la dolce vita,” but that’s a side note.) The 5.4 kWh battery can be fully charged in about five hours using a 2.3 kW AC charger.

In reality, the Topolino shares more similarities with an electric quadricycle or a golf cart than with a Tesla Model Y. However, the recent introductions of the Slate Truck and Amble One electric buggy show that there’s a rising interest in smaller, more compact, and notably more affordable EVs—especially as soaring gas prices prompt many to rethink their reliance on larger trucks and SUVs.

That said, the Topolino won’t suit everyone. As a revamped Citroën Ami, it’s primarily designed for short urban trips and isn’t yet street-legal for highways. If 19 mph feels too sluggish, a complimentary Low Speed Vehicle conversion kit will be available later this summer, boosting the Topolino’s max speed to a thrilling 25 mph. Buckle up, or in the case of models without real doors, hold on tight to the braided rope.

Fiat is embracing the golf cart comparison, noting that many owners take their carts well beyond the golf course. This trend reflects a growing desire for smaller, slower, and less cumbersome personal vehicles—while still providing some protection from the elements, unlike electric bikes.

However, don’t expect a rush to Fiat dealerships for this model. Historically, small cars haven’t sold well in the US. Fiat had a promising start, moving over 43,000 vehicles in 2012, its first full year in the US, but those numbers have dwindled, with only 1,300 sales recorded in 2025. The Fiat 500e, a slightly larger electric two-door, was leasing for $0 down and $0 a month in Colorado a few years back, indicating that demand for such vehicles isn’t exactly robust.

Yet, the buzz around Japanese kei trucks has sparked curiosity about whether small cars might finally gain traction in the US market. Even former President Donald Trump expressed his fondness for them, calling them “really cute” and advocating for their production in the US. Shortly after those remarks, Fiat announced the Topolino’s arrival in the states, although the automaker denied any connection to Trump’s comments.

While the Topolino has its compromises, its undeniable charm could help it cultivate a loyal following. It seems like a perfect fit for resorts or amusement parks—just be cautious on those tight turns!