The Italian car manufacturer Fiat has decided to drastically lower the prices of its Fiat500X in the United States. This is in response to stockpiling and disappointing sales. Even though the model has been officially discontinued, they are still around 277 units of the 500X available at American dealers. This decision was in fact taken to dispose of the so-called “zombie cars”. In order to free up space in warehouses and address the drop in sales recorded in the first quarter of the year.
According to what was reported by internal sources, the sales of the Fiat 500X in the first quarter of 2024 were disappointing. They were in fact recorded alone 113 vehicles sold. Which corresponds to an average of approx 38 units per month. This left the automaker with more than seven months of inventory still on hand. Creating the need to adopt drastic measures to empty the warehouses. In order to attract potential buyers, several dealerships across the country are offering substantial discounts. For example, Jeep Dodge Ram Chrysler of Napleton Mid Rivers, Missouri is offering a 2023 Fiat500X Pop for just $20,230. With a discount of over €9,000 compared to the recommended price. Similarly, Winter Haven Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat of Florida is attempting to get rid of its 500X /Pop by offering them at a discount of €6,000.
Disputes between Fiat and the Ministry of Companies: the complicated industrial situation in Italy
In parallel with the difficulties encountered in the United States, Fiat also finds itself involved in internal disputes. The latter concern the production and distribution of its vehicles in Italy. Recently, a dispute broke out between the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Stellantis, the automotive group of which Fiat is part. This concerned the stoppage of a batch of Fiat Topolinos at the port of Livorno. The issue was raised due to the presence of Italian flags in a car produced in Morocco. Highlighting the complex industrial and political dynamics that influence the Italian automotive sector. Stellantis claims the Italian origin of its vehicle design. The Business Minister, however, underlined the importance of increasing the production of electric and hybrid models in the country. Highlighting the challenges and paradoxes of Italian production lines in crisis. While plants abroad continue to operate at full capacity
