This Week in the Auto Industry Dec. 8-12

Fiat to Bring Its Tiny Topolino EV to the US

Just a week after President Trump expressed interest in kei cars, Stellantis announced that the adorable Fiat Topolino (Italian for "Little Mouse”) is headed to the U.S. for the first time. Details are coming next year, but the specs are delightfully tiny: 95 inches long, 60 inches high, 55 inches wide, an 8-hp motor, and a 5.5-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. Before you get super excited, though, the Topolino will likely be categorized as a Low-Speed Vehicle, similar to a golf cart. They likely won't meet federal safety requirements for city streets.  

Ford and Renault Join Forces for European EVs

Ford announced a partnership with Renault to build two affordable EVs for the European market using Renault's Ampere platform — the same platform used for the Renault 5 E-Tech. Some industry watchers think one of these new models could revive the Fiesta nameplate. The companies also plan to collaborate on light-duty commercial vehicles as well. 

Subaru Uncharted to Start at $36,445

Subaru announced the pricing of its new electric model, the Uncharted, which will start at $36,445. For a deeper dive, you can check out Telemetry's Sam Abuelsamid's analysis over at Greencars.com. 

Kia Debuts Second-Gen Seltos

Kia debuted its second-generation Seltos this week, ahead of its rollout next year as a 2027 model. The crossover grew about 2 inches in length and brings updated exterior styling, including a wider grille, redesigned star-map lighting, and flush door panels, as well as new interior tech. 

Nissan Partners With Wayve

Nissan announced a partnership with Wayve, a UK-based developer of assisted and automated driving software. The collaboration will support its next-generation ProPilot driver-assistance systems slated to launch next year.