RANGE, STANDARD AND OPTIONAL FEATURES
 

At the end of the year, the new Fiorino Cargo will be launched with two trim levels (basic and SX), ten bodywork colours and no fewer than nine bodywork configurations, available with no sliding side door, or with one or two (panelled or glazed). Early in 2008, two important new versions will be added to the new Fiorino range: the Adventure trim for the Cargo model, and the Combi series, dedicated to passenger and goods transport for commercial or private use.

The new Fiorino Cargo Adventure will firstly increase the versatility of the range, by accompanying a model designed specifically for urban traffic with one that is specifically designed for rural areas or more generally for driving on rough, unsurfaced roads (building sites or the construction of roads and railways). The answer lies with some of the mechanical features – a raised suspension, 15” tyres, mudguards fitted as standard, an engine guard built into the front bumpers and more extensive bodywork protection – which also add to the vehicle’s tough, distinctive, character. Inside, the new Fiorino Cargo Adventure features specific upholstery designed to be particularly hardwearing and practical.

The second new addition to the Fiorino will be the Combi series, designed to transport goods or passengers (up to 5 people + 270 kg), also available in two trim levels (Combi and Combi Adventure). A direct descendant of the Cargo series, the distinctive features of the Combi include a semi-glazed bodyshell with glazed double rear doors and specially-designed front bumpers (the front overhang is 95 mm wider than that of the Cargo).

Ideal for mixed transport (teams of workers and materials or tools, or materials only), the Combi combines a linear finish with an extremely versatile loading area. This is a particular highlight of the model, as demonstrated by a flexible, modular boot, thanks to the fold-down 3-seater bench that can be packaged up and removed if necessary in just two simple manoeuvres, creating even more space in the back. In the standard configuration (5 passengers on board), the boot has a capacity of 356 litres (depth of 743 mm and height of 592 mm at the level of the rear luggage rack). The capacity can be increased up to 2500 litres when the rear bench is removed. The luggage rack is specially designed to be folded up (partially or completely), unhooked and placed in a special compartment behind the rear seat, so that you can use the available space to the maximum, with a boot that is even larger, more convenient and easy to access. It is also secure, thanks to the 4 hooks on the floor to keep the cargo safely in place.
 

This kind of practicality and comfort can also be found inside the vehicle, as can be seen from the rear bottom-hinged windows, the extremely hardwearing upholstery for commercial use (on request a very easy to clean PVC mat is available) and the audio system has two more speakers than the one in the Fiorino Cargo.

The Combi series will also include an Adventure version, incorporating the aesthetic and mechanical features already mentioned for the Cargo Adventure. The new model not only looks tough and distinctive, but it is also the ideal workmate for even the most arduous, difficult jobs (on building sites or in rural areas for example), and is perfectly at home on rough, difficult terrain thanks to a suspension that is 20 mm higher than the standard version.

The Combi and Combi Adventure range will be completed by the N1 versions (vehicles certified for goods transport), which are eligible for tax concessions depending on the country you live in. Fitted with a transverse-bar bulkhead separating the cab from the boot, these special models can accommodate up to 4 people plus 338 kg of goods, with a load volume of 537 litres.

It is also worth noting that specialised converters can also transform the new model from Fiat Professional in various ways: refrigeration units, mobile workshops etc. The best examples of this great versatility were the five converted vehicles presented at the recent Transpotec show in Milan, where the Fiorino made its international debut. These include the electric vehicle produced by Micro-Vett, fitted with an asynchronous three-phase motor generating a power of 15 / 30 kW. The vehicle accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in 7 seconds, with a top speed of over 80 km/h. Its very attractive performance (it can handle gradients of 20% fully loaded) confirms that electric power is a valid alternative for urban use, especially if combined with automatic transmission for stress-free driving even in busy city traffic.

Lithium ion batteries provide autonomy of over 100 km on the urban cycle ECE 101 and can be recharged in 6-8 hours with a mains supply of 3 kW (if a 9 kW supply is available, recharging takes just 3 hours). Thanks to a large loading area (working volume of 2.5 m3 which becomes 2.8 if the seats are folded down), and a maximum capacity of over 400 kg, the new electric Fiorino is especially suitable for transporting small and medium-sized parcels in city centres, restricted traffic areas, markets, hospitals etc.