Car & Classic, Europe’s largest marketplace for classic and niche vehicles is set to auction an EV-converted 1963 Fiat 600 Multipla.
Often forgotten in the wake of the distinctive and controversial 1998 Fiat Multipla, the 600 Multipla is regarded as one of the early predecessors to the once-popular MPV segment. The original Multipla was a body style offered within the 600 range from 1956-67 and used the 600’s drivetrain and Fiat 1100 front suspension to achieve an impressive six seats within its 2m wheelbase. For comparison, the brand-new Fiat 600e, which began production last month, fits just five within its 2.5m wheelbase.
This example of the miniature MPV has been converted to an EV, making the Fiat even more useable and efficient, particularly when driven in a big town or city. The conversion was carried out in its home country in 2020 using a kit from Newtron, an EV conversion company based in Villafranca Tirrena, Italy. To not upset the 600 Multipla’s excellent packaging, the Newtron motor and batteries reside where the Fiat Tipo 100 I4 engine used to be, in the rear.
Despite the removal of the original engine, the Multipla’s four-speed manual transmission has been retained and torque has been limited in each ratio to maintain the authentic feeling of progressing through the gears. The car rides comfortably on its suspension, and with little weight to manage, the brakes are effective.
Aside from the electric overhaul, the 600 Multipla has also been subject to a full inside-out restoration. The ‘bigger-on-the-inside’ interior has benefitted from fully retrimmed seats, using soft red leather. New red carpets and a refurbished original dash are present, featuring a seamlessly integrated digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel which displays all the relevant information from the new powertrain.
A striking paint scheme matches the red wheels and red interior, adding some colourful charm to the diminutive Italian minibus. Gleaming chrome, period-correct badges and clear glasswork round off a tiny but tasteful exterior.
The vehicle’s V5 is present and shows that the Multipla was correctly registered as an EV when it was imported to the UK in 2020. Also included with the paperwork is a report on the condition of the vehicle from Stimauto. Now emissions-free, the Fiat is tax-exempt and ULEZ compliant, further reducing the running costs, which are already expected to be low owing to the restoration work.
“When launched, the Fiat 600 Multipla was forward-thinking and ahead of its time. This EV-converted example refreshes that characteristic for the 21st century,” says Car & Classic head of SEO and marketing Helen Parker. “EV conversions are a great way to modernise beloved classics and our site is witnessing more of these niche vehicles being created and offered.”
Car & Classic’s auction of its 1963 Fiat 600 Multipla EV runs from 20 – 27 October and is expected to sell for between £40k and £50k. For those who love the sound of a restored 600 Multipla, but aren’t quite ready for electric power, Car & Classic is also offering a restored 1967 Fiat 600 Multipla with its original 767cc engine. This example was restored in 2003 and has reportedly been stored undercover for all of its life, as such, it is in excellent condition. The auction is live now and ends on 22 October. It is expected to sell for over £20k.