17 Dec 99
Fiat's modular mini showcases the latest in plastics technology, price-slashing production methods and practicality. It also promises 94mpg fuel economy. Is this the future for functional motoring?
It's the compact car of tomorrow. It's low-cost, economical, environmentally-friendly, versatile - and revolutionary.
Why is it so revolutionary? It can be made on a different sort of production line, making it cheaper and quicker to produce. There's only one version, and it doesn't need painting, because the panels are made of ready-dyed plastic.
So there won't be much choice in the range? Oh yes there will - because the Ecobasic's designed to be modular. That means that you can add or take away extra doors (you could have two in the passenger side and one in the driver's side, for example), add or replace seats, and pop-in or pop-out different-coloured panels, dashboards, instruments and accessories.
What's in the name? Eco, obviously, because it's eco-friendly, and basic because it serves fundamental needs.
Does it justify the Eco tag? The light weight and aerodynamics of the Ecobasic help the 1.2-litre direct-injection diesel engine achieve over 94mpg (three litres/100km) fuel consumption. Carbon dioxide emissions are down to 80g/km, and all emissions meet the 2005 Euro regulations.
The Ecobasic looks a little bit, well, basic inside - is it comfortable? The exposed plastic and sheet metal of the frame are all for effect - it's meant to be utilitarian. Why cover up interesting bits of the structure with cushions and padding? You can, however, order extra padding and armrests etc, along with storage modules, baskets, pockets and so on, according to need.
Where are the instrument controls? The control panel, in the module between the front seats, is made out of film that lights up when it receives an electrical charge, so the panel can be much smaller and thinner than one with bulbs or LEDs in. It can also be easily customised, with different colours or personalised details. There is a multi-purpose knob for the climate control air-conditioning system, and all the controls are completely interchangeable for right-hand and left-hand drive, which cuts production time and costs.
It all sounds great in theory, but what's the Ecobasic actually like to drive? The 1.2 JTD direct-injection turbo-diesel engine is developed from the one already getting plenty of acclaim in the new Punto. It works with a 'robotised' five-speed gearbox, which gives two automatic modes: Standard and Economy. In Economy mode, the engine switches itself off automatically after standing still for 4 seconds, and restarts when the accelerator is pressed again, and gears are automatically changed for optimum fuel economy. Standard mode gives a livelier drive, and the option to rev the engine higher. As the Ecobasic's so light, it should be a pretty nippy little thing.
The squared-off back end looks a bit like the Seicento's, but the Ecobasic has a one-piece tailgate which incorporates a moulded-in polycarbonate back window. Nothing as crude as a glass windscreen held in by rubber seals here! Polycarbonates are also used for the headlamp lenses; polypropene is used for the front end, for low-speed impact absorption, and thermosetting plastics are used for lightness and strength on the bonnet, roof panel and door frames. Thermoplastics make up the non-load bearing parts of the frame and panels.
If it all pops together, could I make one at home? Sadly, there's no plans as yet to sell it over here in kit form, and let's face it, most of the British public have problems assembling Ikea bookcases. However, the front end is already prefabricated outside the Fiat factory, and then screwed onto the structure, and the engine is a sealed unit, so it's not a stupid suggestion by any means. Ultimately, all the different sections could be out-sourced, helping keep prices even cheaper. Pre-fab modules in kits could be particularly relevant to developing countries without a manufacturing infrastructure.
The engine is a sealed unit? Does that mean I can't tinker about under the bonnet? Too right. The bonnet can only be opened in a workshop, although there is a little hatch to allow for the topping-up of essential fluids - oil, windscreen washer and brake fluid. Fiat says that's all that will need doing between professional servicing - the engine's so reliable there's just no need to be able to get to it.
Engine: 1.2-litre JTD direct-injection turbo-diesel
Power and torque: 61bhp at 3500rpm; 118lb ft at 1800rpm
Top speed: 99.5mph (electronically limited)
0-60mph acceleration: 13 seconds
Fuel consumption: over 94mpg
Carbon dioxide emissions: 80g/km
Weight: 750kg
Aerodynamics: Cd 0.28
Length: 11' 5"
Will I be able to buy it? Fiat is calling the Ecobasic a 'pilot project' at the moment. Some of its features will definitely find their way into production models in the near future, other features will take longer to appear. The Seicento is due for a facelift in 2002, and the aged Panda (which never went away in Italy) is going to be killed off by Euro safety and emissions legislation - both cars are likely to be replaced by a car born out of the Ecobasic. Fiat also says that ideas will be used for the next-generation Punto and Palio (the 'world car' saloon version). However, the Ecobasic itself could be Fiat's small car of the longer-term future.
