A car company can turn around. Just ask Fiat

fiat_logo.jpgWhen it comes to turnarounds, Fiat serves as a case study. The Italian institution that rules over Fiat, Lancia, Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, and Maserati, trucks, agricultural equipment, construction equipment, and automobile components, lost $1 billion in 2000. Contrast that with 2006, when it posted a 35% jump in revenues year-on-year, and its operating profit was $384 million — a far cry from the $332 million loss of 2005. Fiat’s current market cap is more than that of GM and Ford combined in Europe, at $32.5 billion. Continue reading A car company can turn around. Just ask Fiat

Fiat commercial vehicles at the CV Show 2007

Fiat Auto (UK) will be strongly represented at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham’s NEC (stand No.320, Hall 4, 24-26 April 2007).

Five versions of Fiat Auto’s new Ducato range, including two conversions, will be on the Fiat stand, together with four versions of the recently launched new Scudo range, and two versions of the widely acclaimed Doblò Cargo range. Continue reading Fiat commercial vehicles at the CV Show 2007

Fiat 500 gets 911 reskin

Most Porschephiles who were waiting on a baby 911 were fairly happy with the Cayman, but one Greek motorist had in mind something considerably smaller (even smaller than an actual Porsche), and, failing to find anything on the market that tickled his fancy, set out to create one for himself.

The result is what you see here, a classic Fiat 500, completely re-styled and re-skinned to emulate a 996-generation Porsche 911 Turbo. The idea almost seems a little less than ridiculous when you realize that, like the 911, the original Cinquecento was rear-engined. Then you look at it again and begin to laugh. We have to admit, though, that the Smorsche (as it’s been labeled) is a unique creation, and well executed. But don’t take our word for it, take a look for yourself at the photos in the gallery below.

[Auto Motor]

2007 Fiat Bravo unveiled

061023_f_bravo_02_1024_450.jpgFiat took the wraps off its new Bravo in Rome today before the company plans to offer the five-door hatch across Europe in the coming weeks. The Bravo returns to the market with a sleek and sexy Italian body that makes it appear far more expensive than the typical five-door hatches we’re used to passing on U.S. roadways. The Italian automaker says the new car embodies the synthesis of Beauty and Substance. Continue reading 2007 Fiat Bravo unveiled