This New Fiat Might Be Small, But It Means Business

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Fiat, a brand typically associated with compact urban cars, has stepped into entirely new territory with the debut of its first-ever three-wheeled vehicle—the Fiat Tris. This compact electric transporter is designed with practicality in mind, specifically targeting businesses, service providers, and entrepreneurs who require a versatile, low-cost solution for short-range logistics, deliveries, or mobile operations. While it won’t be sold in the United States, the Tris is expected to make a significant impact in regions such as Africa and the Middle East.

Fiat tris

The Fiat Tris is available in three flexible body styles: truck, chassis cab, and flatbed. Despite its small size—measuring only 10.4 feet in length, which is roughly five feet shorter than a standard Honda Civic—it’s remarkably functional. The vehicle offers a cargo area of 24.2 square feet, engineered to fit standard European pallets, and it can haul up to 1,190 pounds. These specifications make the Tris an ideal solution for "last-mile" delivery businesses, local tradespeople, and mobile service operators.

Powering the Tris is a 48-volt electric motor, which delivers 12 horsepower and 33 pound-feet of torque. While performance isn’t the focus—it has a modest top speed of 28 miles per hour—the vehicle excels in efficiency. A 6.9-kilowatt-hour battery provides a driving range of up to 56 miles per charge, which is more than sufficient for daily short-distance routes in urban or semi-urban areas.

Charging is also designed with convenience in mind. The Tris includes built-in charging equipment, allowing it to be plugged into any standard household outlet. It takes 3.5 hours to charge from 0 to 80 percent, and a full recharge takes 4 hours and 40 minutes. These times are well-suited to overnight charging routines, minimizing operational downtime for businesses.

Fiat

Although compact, the Tris offers several thoughtful interior features. The cabin includes multiple storage compartments, a closed glove box, a USB-C charging port, a 12-volt socket, and a 5.7-inch digital instrument cluster for essential driving data. Safety and functionality are also part of the package, with the Tris meeting European homologation standards. It includes a three-point seat belt, a reverse warning buzzer, and modern LED lighting featuring Fiat’s updated pixel-style design.

The Tris has drawn comparisons to the Toyota Hilux Champ, another minimalist utility vehicle intended for flexible commercial use. Fiat plans to offer upfitting options through its commercial division, giving buyers the ability to tailor the Tris to specific business needs. Though small, this electric three-wheeler could become a sought-after utility vehicle in the regions it serves—perhaps even gaining cult status like Japanese kei trucks.

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