Together with a host of new models on the stand, the start of the Frankfurt Motor Show last week Tuesday also marked the latest investor presentation of Fiat Automobiles by (then) Fiat CEO Luca De Meo. The presentation focused on Fiat’s key branding points, as well as a look into the future at some of their most important models in the pipeline.

Fiat’s latest decisions have concentrated on launching cars developed for the highest safety rating, something which has been recently bolstered by the impressive 5-star EuroNCAP score for the Fiat 500. To reach the maximum score in this most stringent of crash test arenas represents an industry first for a vehicle measuring less than 3.6 metres in length. What is even more significant is that the Fiat 500 is engineered to pass EuroNCAP’s rigorous 6-star rating when it comes into focus next year.

Other decisions which typify Fiat’s latest generation of models include equipment levels which match or improve the highest material and equipment standards within their respective market segments. For this one needs to look no further than the Bravo; a sporty 5-door hatchback in the C-segment which offers not only good looks, but also an impressively stocked interior and first-rate material choices for the dashboard and upholstery, as well as economical and well-performing engines such as the lively 1.4 T-JET turbocharged petrol unit.

In order to complete their service in the best possible way, Fiat has established Europe’s largest and most effective customer care service. Fiat not only cares for its customers by offering safe, stylish and well-equipped cars with a good customer-base, but also pays a lot of attention to the environment. Today Fiat averages in CO2 emissions at 140 g/km, beating the industry average at 160 g/km. In the near future Fiat will reduce this even further to around the 130 g/km mark.

Fiat’s ongoing research towards environmentally-friendly cars has resulted in the introduction of smaller turbocharged petrol engines, as well as their latest generation of efficient Multijet II diesels. Their petrol engine portfolio also includes the introduction of leading technology such as Multiair and automated manual gearboxes with an added stop / start function to further reduce the fuel consumption during the urban cycle.

Their latest petrol engine technology was also presented during the Frankfurt Motor Show on the Panda Aria concept car, which is positioned centre stage, astride a huge turntable.
 

The Panda Aria concept is a model which displays much realistic technology to improve emissions which are already in production, or will soon be industrialised on Fiat models. It is also offering a preview of the forthcoming 900cc twin-turbo SGE engine.

Fiat is also Europe’s fastest growing brand, posting an unparalleled growth over the past two years of +32%. This presents an impressive result when compared to direct European competitors over the same period (VW: +9%; Ford: +2%; PSA: -1% Renault: -19%). This excellent growth has been bolstered by successes such as the new Fiat Bravo model. This C-segment car has now recaptured the leading domestic share in its respective market segment.

Future models in Fiat’s pipeline include two ground-breaking models which aim to further expand Fiat’s turnaround success story. The first of these will arrive in 2009 in the form of a B-segment car to fit below the Grande Punto. This B-Compact car, which will likely be called Uno, will be available in two body variants and will offer Italian style at an affordable price. With a low running cost, high practicality and economical engines, this sensible contender will only add to Fiat’s portfolio of market-leading compact family hatchbacks.

The second model which Fiat illustrated during the presentation was altogether more individual and stylish; a cross-over C-segment 5-door hatchback set to fit alongside the Bravo model as a practical and emotional alternative. With the practicality of an MPV and the rugged looks of an SUV, the 4.5 metre long car will be priced in between €22k and €30k, offering both FWD and AWD running gear.

With these latest results, and with bold plans, Fiat is now firmly back on track as a strong European contender in the automobile industry. Fiat’s vehicle portfolio now offers safe, stylish and economical models to compete aggressively in all their markets, and this portfolio is set to expand in the near future. With improved distribution Fiat aims to reach more customers, themselves being treated to the most direct and interactive customer service in the European industry.