Fiat recently unveiled the redesigned 500e in the United States, prompting mixed reactions due to its 149-mile range and $32,500 price tag. However, a trio of 500e concepts, auctioned as part of Art Basel Miami Beach events, surpassed expectations by fetching a combined total of $600,000, well beyond their estimated value of $50,000 to $100,000.
The standout performer was the 500e Kartell concept, which commanded an astonishing $275,000. Noteworthy features contributing to its appeal included blue-tinted glass, a six-layer “ecocrome” paint job with a chrome-like finish, and design elements inspired by Kartell’s Kabuki lamp. The latter, retailing for $1,685, influenced the mirrors and wheels of the concept. The bespoke interior featured recycled polyester mélange fabric and transparent polycarbonate dashboard trim.
The 500e Bulgari secured $175,000, while the Armani version reached $150,000 in the auction. Although both fetched less than the Kartell, all three concepts generated substantial revenue, despite being declared by Fiat as “expressions of automotive art” and non-compliant with U.S. motor vehicle safety standards. Consequently, the vehicles cannot be sold in the United States.
Winning bidders face additional steps, as Fiat specified that “FCA US LLC or its affiliates will export all vehicles to the point of origin, Italy, before the sale of the vehicle can be transacted and the title can be transferred.” After securing the title in Italy, bidders will receive documentation for exporting the vehicles from Italy to their chosen country. The successful auction results underscore the appeal of these production-based concepts to automotive enthusiasts and collectors.
