Fiat has just unveiled an innovative hybrid engine in Brazil, designed to run on ethanol, a popular fuel in Latin America. In this region, which represents nearly 50% of its global sales, Fiat reaffirms its commitment to clean and affordable mobility solutions. While its European models are evolving towards Puretech hybrid engines, Fiat continues to rely on its GSE FireFly engine in Latin America, with a T200 Hybrid version of 1.0 liter and 130 horsepower. Equipped with a seven-speed automatic transmission, this engine is now compatible with ethanol, significantly reducing fuel consumption.
Bio-Hybrid: hybrid technology adapted to Latin America
Fiat’s new hybrid technology, called Bio-Hybrid, is introduced on Pulse and Fastback SUVs. By combining electrification with a thermal engine running on ethanol, this pioneering technology aims to reduce CO₂ emissions while remaining accessible to drivers. Thanks to Stellantis’ global research center in Betim, Brazil, Fiat has been able to develop a 12-volt mild hybrid system with two batteries, one of 68 Ah in lead-acid and another of 11 Ah in lithium-ion under the driver’s seat. This multifunctional electric motor replaces the traditional alternator and starter, providing 3 kW of power to assist the combustion engine and optimize fuel consumption.
A significant improvement in efficiency
According to Fiat, the adoption of this engine made it possible a reduction in consumption of 11.5% for the Fastback and 10.7% for the Pulse in urban cycles, whether with gasoline or ethanol. These hybrid models, already on the market, could inspire the deployment of this technology in other segments of the range. The T200 Hybrid engine offers varied operating modes to improve efficiency:
- e-Start&Stop : activates Start-Stop to reduce consumption by turning off the engine when stopped.
- e-Assist : provides additional torque during acceleration, contributing to increased performance and reduced consumption.
- Smart alternator : charges the batteries according to their level, ensuring the energy needs of the vehicle.
- e-rain : recovers deceleration energy to recharge the batteries, being able to capture up to 25% of the energy normally lost.
Enthusiastic feedback from Brazil
The first feedback on the road confirms the effectiveness of this technology. Brazilian journalist Marlos Ney Vidal was able to test the Pulse T200 Hybrid in real conditions. When compared with the classic version, he observed a consumption gain of 30% on the same urban journey, i.e. an average consumption of 6.1 km/l with the hybrid model compared to 4.3 km/l for the classic version, under identical driving conditions.
Fiat has also optimized the user experience. Drivers can view consumption levels and battery recharge in real time using the digital dashboard. This system encourages more economical driving, making it possible to fully exploit the capabilities of the mild hybrid system.
The future of Fiat engines in Latin America
With this initiative, Fiat continues to innovate in a sector in transition. Bio-Hybrid technology constitutes a strategic choice, adapting to the specific needs of Latin America, where ethanol is already widely used. Fiat’s T200 Hybrid engine represents a step forward in affordability and fuel efficiency that we’ll likely never see in Europe.
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