Electric micro-transporter Fiat Tris: Locally emission-free and industrious

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The Ape (German for "bee") has long been an automotive cultural asset in Italy, and is now even a cult among mostly young enthusiasts worldwide. In 2025, Piaggio had to permanently cease production of the three-wheeler, built on a Vespa basis since 1947, in Pontedera and is instead offering the electric Porter NPE based on Suzuki. Allegedly, EU homologation requirements had become too strict for the minimalist vehicle, but it is said to continue to be built in India. Italy probably has the highest density of narrow old town alleys in Europe. But elsewhere in the world, there is apparently enough demand for such small commercial vehicles suitable for urban use.

With technology from the Fiat Topolino

In a way, Fiat Professional is now relaunching a strikingly similarly dimensioned electric three-wheeler with the Fiat Tris, initially to market it in Africa and "other emerging regions". Instead of a swappable battery like in the E-Ape, the electric three-wheeler with a flatbed and cabin from Fiat relies on the existing technology of the Stellantis light quadricycle models Fiat Topolino, Opel Rocks, and Citroën Ami. Fiat will showcase the minimalist vehicle at the Brussels Motor Show from January 9 to 18, 2026. The Fiat Tris thus carries forward the spiritual heritage of the Ape into the future of sustainable mobility. Designed by the Fiat Style Centre and produced in Morocco, it is initially intended for markets in Africa and the Middle East, where demand for light commercial vehicles is constantly growing.

With cabin, flatbed or as a box

Fiat offers the Tris in three versions: cabin, with a flatbed, and as a box. The dimensions, similar to the Ape, are designed for the tightest urban conditions with a length of 3.17 m and an unparalleled turning circle of 3.05 m thanks to the single front wheel. It can transport a Euro pallet and offers a payload of 540 kg, perfect for last-mile logistics. The drive with the 6 kW motor and a peak power of 9 kW, and a 6.9 kWh lithium battery (instead of 5.5 kWh as in the Fiat Topolino) is expected to provide a range of 90 km under WLTP conditions. The top speed is 45 km/h, which is somewhat unfortunately set for light quadricycles. Charging to 80 percent is possible in three hours, and to 100 percent in less than 5 hours at a standard socket. Charging at a wallbox is not possible.

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Fiat Tris (4 Bilder)

The micro-transporter is already approved according to European standards, with three-point seat belts, automatically activated LED headlights, a reversing buzzer, and all other required safety features. Olivier François, CEO of Fiat, suggests European sales: "We believe the potential goes far beyond that: Europe could be the next stop, as this intelligent and sustainable solution speaks a universal language."

Low-threshold entry into mobility

Stellantis will likely decide based on market conditions. In Africa, the micro-mobility vehicle will be purchased because it promises a low-threshold entry into mobility. In Europe, a combination of increasing last-mile transport demand and strict urban emission regulations for both noise and exhaust gases could help the electrified three-wheeler achieve a long life, unforeseen in 1952.

(fpi)