During the presentation of the Fiat Grand Panda, Stellantis mentioned targeting 50 countries. Today, the group indicates that it is considering launching in the United States, where it will join the 500.
At the celebration of the brand’s 125th anniversary last week in its Turin stronghold, Fiat clearly emphasized the global role that will be assigned to its new Grande Panda, which will arrive in dealerships in the fall. After a reveal a few weeks ago through three CGI images, it made its very first appearance in front of journalists and a select audience. The city car, which technically derives from the Citroën C3 and shares the STLA Smart platform with it under the Stellantis group, will be marketed in 50 countries.
Europe and South America are obviously targeted markets, but the Italian brand is seriously considering launching in North America, where it would lead the way before the launch of the urban Fiat Multipla SUV, and then the Fiat Fastback coupe SUV. A real Grande Panda family that would expand an already existing lineup in the US, which includes the Fiat 500 electric and Fiat 500X. For reference, the Fiat Panda, whose first version was launched in 1980, has never crossed the Atlantic.
To be approved in the Uncle Sam’s country, the Fiat Grande Panda must undergo modifications in terms of lighting, as local standards are different from those in Europe. These include the famous orange side markers, mandatory there but strictly prohibited here, which can change the appearance of the vehicle and sometimes require a deep modification in the bumper for States that do not allow a front license plate. Additionally, square license plates at the back can alter the design of the tailgate.
On the other hand, the digital interface of the Fiat Grande Panda, borrowed from the Opel Frontera, can easily switch from km/h to mph (miles per hour). As evidence, in the UK, the Vauxhall Frontera is already calibrated in this unit of measurement.
In conclusion, the arrival of the Fiat Grande Panda in the American market signifies a strategic move for the Italian manufacturer, aiming to expand its presence globally and introduce new models to meet the demands of various regions. With its unique design and shared platform with reputable brands, the Grande Panda is set to make a mark in the competitive automotive industry.