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Fiat’s Tiny Topolino EV Brings a Little Italian Dolce Vita to the US

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Fiat has spent decades proving that you don’t need a massive car to have plenty of personality, and the Topolino might be the smallest example yet. After charming its way around Europe, the tiny two-seat EV has officially crossed the Atlantic, with limited quantities of the 2026 Topolino and open-air Topolino Dolcevita now available through selected Fiat dealers across the United States. Prices start at USD $13,995 before destination, making it one of the cheapest ways to put a brand-new electric vehicle — or technically, an electric quadricycle — in your driveway.

And when we say tiny, we really mean it. The Topolino is only around 8 feet 3 inches long, has a 5.4kWh battery and offers up to 46 miles of range, putting it somewhere between a conventional city car and a very fancy golf cart. Fiat isn’t pretending otherwise either. This thing is designed for short trips, neighbourhood streets, resorts and leisurely drives where getting somewhere quickly isn’t really the point. Unfortunately for Canadians who fancy a little dolce vita of their own, they’ll have to admire it from across the border for now.

Fiat Topolino Electric Charging
New Fiat Topolino Electric Charging | Image: Stellantis

The Fiat Topolino Has Finally Made It to America

The Topolino might look like a completely new idea for Fiat, but the name goes way back. The original Fiat 500 “Topolino” arrived in the 1930s as an affordable way of getting Italy moving, with Topolino translating roughly to “little mouse” in Italian. The modern version keeps that same basic philosophy — small, simple, accessible transportation — and reimagines it for the electric age.

The current Topolino first arrived in Europe in 2023 and has since carved out a surprisingly successful little niche for itself. Fiat says that by 2025 it had become the European leader in the electric quadricycle market, while orders continued growing into 2026. Now Fiat is testing whether that same formula can work in America, marking Stellantis’ first move into the U.S. micromobility segment.

American buyers can choose between two versions. The first one is the regular Topolino, which gets actual doors and a panoramic glass roof, while the Topolino Dolcevita is the one we’d probably want. It swaps those doors for a pair of wonderfully ridiculous ropes and adds a roll-back soft top, essentially turning the whole thing into an electric beach buggy with an Italian passport.

Fiat Topolino Electric Charging
New Fiat Topolino Electric Charging | Image: Stellantis
Fiat Topolino Electric Charging
New Fiat Topolino Electric Charging | Image: Stellantis

Tiny Battery, Tiny Speed, Plenty of Personality

Don’t look at the Topolino’s performance numbers expecting another electric hot hatch. Power comes from a 5.4kWh lithium-ion battery, giving it up to 46 miles of range. Plug it into a regular household outlet, and Fiat says a full charge takes around five hours, which is probably plenty when your idea of a long-distance journey involves heading from the beach club to lunch.

Then there’s the top speed — 19 mph in its standard U.S. configuration. That’s hilariously slow by normal-car standards, but comparing the Topolino with a conventional EV slightly misses the point. Fiat sees this primarily as neighbourhood transportation for private communities, resorts, campuses and other places where you don’t particularly need — or want — to be doing 70 mph.

Fiat Topolino Specifications

  • Type: Electric Quadricycle / Low-Speed Vehicle
  • Motor: 6kW (8.2 hp) electric motor
  • Battery: 5.4kWh lithium-ion
  • Range: Up to 46 miles
  • Top Speed: 19 mph standard; up to 25 mph with LSV conversion
  • Charging: Around 5 hours from a standard household outlet
  • Versions: Topolino & Topolino Dolcevita
  • Design: Verde Vita exterior with retro Fiat-inspired styling
  • Topolino: Asymmetrical doors & panoramic glass roof
  • Topolino Dolcevita: Rope doors & roll-up soft top
  • Storage: Rear luggage rack carrier
  • Price: From USD $13,995 before destination

With a 6kW electric motor, the Topolino has roughly the same horsepower as a particularly determined lawn mower, but speed was never really the assignment here. Its 46-mile range and tiny footprint are made for beach towns, resorts, gated communities and quick neighbourhood runs, while the 5.4kWh battery can recharge in around five hours from a regular American household outlet. Park it, plug it in and forget about it — by the time you’re ready to head out again, your tiny Italian runabout should be ready too.

New Fiat Topolino Electric Charging | Image: Stellantis

Is the Fiat Topolino Actually Street Legal in America?

This is where things get a little weird if we look at it from a standard form, the Topolino tops out at just 19 mph, limiting it primarily to private and gated communities and other low-speed environments. Fiat plans to change that with a dealer-installed Street Legal Conversion Kit, expected in fall 2026, which adds a rearview mirror, backup camera and pedestrian alert system while increasing the top speed to 25 mph. Once properly equipped, the Topolino qualifies as a Low-Speed Vehicle and can be driven on most U.S. roads posted at 35 mph or less, subject to state and local rules.

That still means highways and major roads are firmly off the menu — although attempting an interstate journey at 25 mph probably wasn’t high on anyone’s bucket list anyway. Instead, the Topolino makes far more sense buzzing around beach towns, downtown areas, resorts and contained communities where journeys are short, and traffic moves slowly. In those surroundings, its lack of speed suddenly matters a lot less, and it starts looking like a much more charming alternative to the golf carts already roaming around.

New Fiat Topolino Electric Charging | Image: Stellantis

America Gets the Topolino, But Canada Misses Out

For now, that little slice of Italian life stops at the Canadian border. Stellantis Canada says there are “no immediate plans” to offer the Topolino there, where low-speed vehicle regulations already make things complicated — and Canada’s harsh winters probably wouldn’t be the Topolino’s dream holiday either.

With just 46 miles of range, a tiny 5.4kWh battery, and a design Fiat heavily markets around beach communities, marinas, and leisurely neighbourhood trips, snow, freezing temperatures, and long winter drives aren’t exactly its natural habitat. Still, Canadians shouldn’t give up completely, with Stellantis adding that “based on consumer interest and demand, availability may expand to other regions.” So the door isn’t completely shut — for now, the little Italian mouse just seems happier somewhere warmer.

New Fiat Topolino Electric Charging | Image: Stellantis

Price & Availability

The 2026 Fiat Topolino starts at USD $13,995, with both the regular Topolino and open-air Dolcevita now available in limited quantities through select Fiat dealers across the United States. Fiat is keeping the rollout relatively small for now, which makes sense considering this is the brand’s first step into the U.S. micromobility market rather than another conventional car launch.

Whether Americans are ready to spend nearly $14,000 on something that tops out at 19 mph is another question, but the Topolino has something most golf carts could only dream of — genuine Italian character. It’s tiny, charming and slightly ridiculous in all the right ways, and for someone living in a beach town, resort community or neighbourhood where everything is only a few minutes away, that might be exactly the point.

Fiat Topolino Electric Charging
New Fiat Topolino Electric Charging | Image: Stellantis
Fiat Topolino Electric Charging
New Fiat Topolino Electric Charging | Image: Stellantis
Fiat Topolino Electric Charging
New Fiat Topolino Electric Charging | Image: Stellantis
Fiat Topolino Electric Charging
New Fiat Topolino Electric Charging | Image: Stellantis
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Watches

L’Heure Élevée – Watch News #8

Reading Time: 11 minutes

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It’s another Tuesday, and we have an impressive selection of timepieces to discuss. However, this week is particularly special. We’re exploring a collection of watches that challenge conventions—some breathe new life into classic designs, while others completely redefine high horology. Consider it a masterclass in precision, creativity, and artistry, with each piece telling its own distinct story.

Certain watches draw attention with striking designs, while others radiate elegance through refined craftsmanship and technical expertise. Whether celebrating significant anniversaries that honour tradition or featuring cutting-edge complications that appear ahead of their time, this collection showcases remarkable ingenuity. Additionally, let us acknowledge the independent watchmakers who continually disrupt the industry, demonstrating that true artistry knows no bounds.

This week, we explore timepieces that set new standards—watches that fuse tradition with innovative mechanics, partnerships that combine performance with luxury, and expertly crafted masterpieces that challenge the boundaries of human craftsmanship. If you appreciate detailed skeletonized movements, striking collaborations, or artisanal quality, you’re in for a delight.

Absolutely, each of these watches carries a unique story. You’ll definitely want to catch every detail. Are you prepared to discover the best in watchmaking this week? Let’s dive in.

Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic Skeleton 39 | Image: Maurice Lacroix

Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic Skeleton 39

  • Brand: Maurice Lacroix
  • Model: Aikon Automatic Skeleton 39
  • Reference: AI6007-SS002-030-1
  • Diameter: 39mm
  • Thickness: 11mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Dial Color: Blue Dial
  • Calibre: ML115 (Automatic)
  • Power Reserve: 38 Hours
  • Water Resistance: 20 bar (200 meters, 650 feet)
  • Price: USD $3,990

When it comes to balancing contemporary design with high-level craftsmanship, Maurice Lacroix knows exactly what it’s doing. The Aikon Automatic Skeleton 39 isn’t just another sporty-luxe timepiece; it’s an open invitation to witness the beauty of mechanics in motion. This watch doesn’t hide behind a traditional dial; instead, it proudly showcases its inner workings, allowing you to admire the intricate dance of gears, levers, and springs with every flick of the wrist.

Measuring 39mm, it finds the perfect balance—small enough for elegant wear yet substantial enough to stand out. Made from stainless steel, it embodies the signature Aikon style: defined lines, sleek and brushed finishes, along with the iconic six-arm bezel that lends a unique architectural flair. However, the real highlight? The fully skeletonized dial, where negative space integrates into the design itself. The combination of grey and silver shades creates a raw, industrial look, emphasizing that this watch is crafted for those who truly value mechanical artistry in its most authentic form.

Powering this visual spectacle is the ML115 calibre, an automatic movement based on the reliable Sellita SW200-1 but significantly modified to align with Maurice Lacroix’s design philosophy. With a 38-hour power reserve, it’s ready to keep pace with your daily routine—whether you’re suited up for business or keeping things casual. And with robust 20-bar water resistance (200 meters, 656 feet), it’s not just a pretty face; it’s engineered to handle more than a splash of adventure.

For less than $4,000, you acquire a luxury sports watch that does more than display time—it narrates a story. This piece draws admiration, sparks discussions, and serves as a reminder that what lies beneath is often as significant as what is visible.

IWC Schaffhausen Pilot’s Watch Mark XX Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS | Image: IWC Schaffhausen

IWC Schaffhausen Pilot’s Watch Mark XX Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS

  • Brand: IWC Schaffhausen
  • Model: Pilot’s Watch Mark XX Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team
  • Reference: IW328210
  • Diameter: 40mm
  • Thickness: 10.8mm
  • Material: Grade 5 Titanium
  • Dial Color: Black with PETRONAS Green Accents
  • Calibre: IWC 32111 (Automatic)
  • Power Reserve: 120 Hours
  • Water Resistance: 10 bar (100 meters, 330 feet)
  • Price: USD $6,100

A watch imbued with motorsport heritage transcends its role as merely an accessory; it embodies speed, precision, and extraordinary engineering. IWC Schaffhausen, celebrated for its aviation timepieces, extends that same technical expertise to Formula 1 with the Pilot’s Watch Mark XX Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team edition. More than just a tribute to racing, this watch is designed like racing machinery, expertly calibrated for peak performance both on and off the track.

A highlight of this product is its Grade 5 titanium case, recognized for its association with high-performance engineering. This material is not only remarkably lightweight, ideal for anyone seeking a watch that is easy to wear, but it is also durable enough to withstand harsh conditions. With a case diameter of 40mm and a thickness of 10.8mm, it achieves an ideal blend of wrist presence and everyday comfort, rendering it a versatile accessory for both trackside adventures and urban environments.

What distinguishes this watch is its impressive power reserve. Featuring IWC’s 32111 calibre, it boasts an exceptional 120-hour power reserve—that’s five complete days of autonomy, so you won’t need to wind it every morning. Combine that with a 10-bar water resistance (100 meters, 328 feet), and you have a timepiece that’s as durable as the aerodynamics of an F1 car.

Next, consider the aesthetic allure. The black dial, highlighted by the iconic PETRONAS Green, provides a dynamic contrast that’s striking yet subtle. It embodies a sleek, bold, and effortlessly cool vibe—mirroring the spirit of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS team. The overall design is sporty and sophisticated, making it ideal for those who value motorsport and elegant watchmaking. Priced at USD $6,150, this IWC Pilot’s Watch is more than a commemorative timepiece—it’s a tribute to the relentless pursuit of precision and innovation. Whether you’re a die-hard F1 fan, an aviation enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates exceptional craftsmanship, this watch excels in every aspect.

MB&F Legacy Machine Perpetual Longhorn | Image: MB&F

MB&F
LM Perpetual Longhorn

  • Brand: MB&F
  • Model: Legacy Machine Perpetual Longhorn
  • Diameter: 44mm
  • Thickness: 17.5mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Dial Color: Skeletonized Black Dial
  • Calibre: LM Perpetual by Stephen McDonnell
  • Power Reserve: 72 Hours
  • Water Resistance: 3 bar (30 meters, 100 feet)
  • Price: USD $207,000 ( Limited Edition – 20 Pieces )
MB&F Legacy Machine Sequential Flyback Longhorn | Image: MB&F

MB&F
LM Sequential Flyback Longhorn

  • Brand: MB&F
  • Model: Legacy Machine Sequential Flyback Longhorn
  • Diameter: 44mm
  • Thickness: 18.2mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Dial Color: Skeletonized Black Dial
  • Calibre: Dual chronograph system by Stephen McDonnell for MB&F
  • Power Reserve: 72 Hours
  • Water Resistance: 3 bar (30 meters, 100 feet)
  • Price: USD $207,000 ( Limited Edition – 20 Pieces )

When MB&F unveils a watch, it transcends mere timekeeping—it’s an audacious challenge to horological norms. The Legacy Machine Perpetual Longhorn and Legacy Machine Sequential Flyback Longhorn exemplify this spirit. With only 20 pieces each produced, these watches not only explore the limits of mechanical intricacy but also embody a bold, rebellious style.

Both models showcase a 44mm stainless steel case, representing a notable departure from MB&F’s usual preference for precious metals. The steel not only enhances wearability but also conveys a rugged, industrial aesthetic that beautifully complements the skeletonized black dials. Moreover, the “Longhorn” nickname pays tribute to the elongated, curved lugs that prominently extend from the case, creating a striking presence on the wrist.

The LM Perpetual Longhorn showcases MB&F’s partnership with renowned watchmaker Stephen McDonnell. His LM Perpetual movement innovatively redesigns the conventional perpetual calendar, addressing typical issues such as misalignment or jamming during date adjustments. The dial arrangement features an orchestra of suspended subdials hovering over a captivating mechanical scenery, where gears and levers are completely visible. While featuring an innovative design, this watch is also extremely functional. Its intuitive pushers facilitate easy adjustments, and with a 72-hour power reserve, there’s no need for daily winding. More than a perpetual calendar, it redefines the capabilities of such a complication.

On the other side of the spectrum is the LM Sequential Flyback Longhorn, a truly unique chronograph. Once more, Stephen McDonnell introduces revolutionary innovation with a dual chronograph system that elevates timing capabilities significantly. In contrast to conventional chronographs, this model enables independent or simultaneous operation of both counters, offering features like a lap timer, split-seconds, or even cumulative timing. What makes this piece even more impressive is the addition of a flyback function elevates this piece, making it MB&F’s most sophisticated chronograph. The movement resembles a breathtaking mechanical sculpture, with the exposed gears, wheels, and column wheels that glide beneath the domed sapphire crystal. Similarly to its Perpetual counterpart, it features a 72-hour power reserve for dependable functionality and boasts a water resistance of 100 feet, enhancing its durability.

The LM Perpetual Longhorn and the LM Sequential Flyback Longhorn reflect MB&F’s innovative spirit, yet they express it through distinct approaches. One reimagines the perpetual calendar, while the other transforms the chronograph. However, both feature bold execution, avant-garde design, and impressive mechanics. Priced at USD $207,000 each, these are more than mere timepieces—they are artistic creations perfect for collectors who value the blend of engineering and creativity. While traditional watchmaking focuses on preserving heritage, MB&F aims to redefine it.

Oris Divers Sixty-Five 60th Anniversary Edition | Image: Oris

Oris Divers Sixty-Five 60th Anniversary Edition

  • Brand: Oris
  • Model: Divers Sixty-Five 60th Anniversary Edition
  • Reference: 01 733 7772 4034-Set
  • Diameter: 40mm
  • Thickness: 11.5mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Dial Color: Black Dial
  • Calibre: Oris 733-1
  • Power Reserve: 41 Hours
  • Water Resistance: 10 bar (100 meters, 330 feet)
  • Price: USD $2,500

Sixty years is a long time in watchmaking, and when Oris celebrates such an anniversary, they do it with flair. The Divers Sixty-Five 60th Anniversary Edition pays homage to the brand’s inaugural dive watch from 1965. However, it’s more than just a reissue; this watch combines nostalgic appeal with contemporary dependability, ensuring it’s an everyday diver that is both stylish and practical.

With a diameter of 40mm and a thickness of only 11.5mm, this watch features ideal proportions for a modern dive watch, ensuring a comfortable fit while maintaining its functional tool-watch essence. The stainless steel case is both timeless and sturdy, and the black dial keeps the design looking sleek and easy to read. The large hour markers and hands, which are coated in luminous material, exude a pronounced retro charm, yet they offer excellent visibility whether you are diving or enjoying the last light of sunset.

The Oris Calibre 733-1 powers this anniversary edition, based on the Sellita SW200-1 movement, and offers a 41-hour power reserve—sufficient to keep things running smoothly between wears. While it may not be a hardcore saturation diver, the 10-bar water resistance (100 meters, 330 feet) ensures it’s more than capable of handling swimming, snorkelling, and everyday activities adventures.

What makes this edition special isn’t just its history—how it bridges the past and present. Priced at USD $2,500, it offers a vintage-inspired aesthetic without the fragility of an actual vintage watch. Whether you’re a longtime Oris enthusiast or simply seeking a well-built dive watch with a story to tell, the Divers Sixty-Five 60th Anniversary Edition is a testament to the fact that great design never goes out of style.

Greubel Forsey Hand Made 2 | Image: Greubel Forsey

Greubel Forsey Hand Made 2

  • Brand: Greubel Forsey
  • Model: Hand Made 2
  • Diameter: 41 mm
  • Thickness: 12.8 mm
  • Material: White Gold
  • Dial Color: Silver, Hand-Finished with Open Worked Sections
  • Calibre: Hand-Wound Tourbillon Movement (Entirely Handmade)
  • Power Reserve: 72 Hours
  • Water Resistance: 3 bar (30 meters, 100 feet)
  • Price: USD $703,000

Some watches stand out as true masterpieces. The Greubel Forsey Hand Made 2 is one such creation—a timepiece shaped not merely made, embodying an extraordinary attention to detail. In an age dominated by automation and mass production, this watch is exceptional, boasting over 95% of its parts meticulously handcrafted, including the bridges, screws, and even the hairspring. What does this mean for craftsmanship? It takes around 6,000 hours—almost three years—to complete just one watch.

With a diameter of 41mm and a thickness of just 12.8mm, the white gold case is both elegant and substantial, encasing a dial that transports you to another realm. The meticulously hand-finished silver dial, featuring its detailed open-worked sections, showcases the captivating movement of the hand-wound tourbillon—a mechanical wonder that embodies the essence of this remarkable watch. Every bridge, bevel, and polished edge is crafted with unparalleled precision, highlighting Greubel Forsey’s status as a leader in haute horology.

Beyond its artistry, the Hand Made 2 is no mere delicate artifact. With a 72-hour power reserve, it delivers exceptional performance, while the 3-bar water resistance (30 meters, 100 feet) ensures durability. But let’s be honest—this isn’t a watch that you take near water. It’s a piece of horological history, crafted for collectors who appreciate the true value of handcrafted pieces perfection.

Priced at USD $703,000, this isn’t just an ultra-high-end timepiece—it represents a commitment to the finest watchmaking traditions. The Greubel Forsey Hand Made 2 transcends trends, aiming to redefine craftsmanship itself. For lucky owners of this rare masterpiece, each moment becomes a treasure to appreciate.

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