2006 Fiat Panda MultiEco Concept
Built on a modular and flexible chassis with a tall body, the Panda was an easy conversion to natural-gas power. Its frame allowed for two new tanks - one longitudinally, one transversely - to be fitted giving it a capacity of 50 litres (13 gal), without detracting from the interior volume or cargo space in any way whatsoever. The MultiEco’s powerplant is a converted version of the Panda’s FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotized Engine), featuring a new belt-operated starter (BAS). This innovative starter-alternator provides instantaneous starts for the idle-stop mode, and is a similar system to that used in hybrids.
Before the Panda’s green-generated power hits the front wheels, it is mated to a robotized ‘clutchless’ manual gearbox, similar to the unit found in the smart fortwo. This style of transmission combines the power and efficiency of a manual with the convenience of an automatic, without the third pedal of the former or the energy-sapping torque converter of the latter.
To make the most out of these incremental changes, Fiat has improved the Panda’s exterior by ways of material and styling. Using recyclable thermoplastics to replace standard steel body panels, lightweight seats plus carbon-fibre and steel for the fuel tanks, Fiat shaved an impressive 92 kg (202 lbs) off the curb weight of its production contemporary.
To further enable the car to reach its claimed 350 km (217 mi) range, the Panda’s body spent some time in the windtunnel, yielding more aerodynamically efficient bumpers, mirrors and other extremities. Of course, to give it a bit of glamour for its Geneva debut, the car was finished in pastel blue paint scheme with unique blue-tinted headlamps and tail lamps. The Panda MultiEco also rides on low-rolling resistance tires with a new compound developed by Pirelli that reduces energy loss, but provides consistent grip in wet and dry conditions.
The Panda MultiEco doesn’t so much bring anything new to the game of green automobiles, as it perfects existing mechanical know-how. The combined efforts of Fiat allow the MultiEco to cut its carbon dioxide emissions by up to 42 percent as compared to the gasoline version, which is roughly equal to 90 g/km. For comparison, a 2.0-litre gasoline-powered compact car (e.g. a VW Golf or Ford Focus) emits around 180 g/km. Further benefits of natural gas include cleaner emissions than gasoline, and the reduced cost of natural gas means that the MultiEco is roughly 63 percent cheaper to run in relative costs per kilometer.
As was mentioned, the MultiEco is Fiat’s concept demonstrator vehicle for a milder, natural-gas/gasoline bi-fuel powered Panda that goes on sale later this year. Too bad that nothing like this will be available on our side of the Atlantic.
Specifications:
- Body Type: 5-door hatchback
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Engine (est.): 60-hp, 75 lb-ft of torque, 1.2L, SOHC I-4
- Fuel Type: compressed natural gas (CNG)
- Transmission: 5-spd robotized sequential-manual
- Curb Weight (est.): 768 kg (1,690 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 4
- Cargo Volume: 206 L (7.3 cu-ft)
- Website: www.fiat.com
Pages: 1 2