Gucci and Fiat jointly unveiled the 500 by Gucci, a special edition of the iconic Fiat 500 which is the result of a collaboration between two of Italy's most respected brands, on the opening day of Milan Fashion Week. The car will be available in Europe this summer and perhaps in the US by the end of the year.
Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini said, "In the 50s the Fiat 500 created a style revolution when it first hit the road. It quickly become the must-have car of its time. Travelling in style has also been at the heart of Gucci ever since Guccio Gucci founded his company as a producer of leather trunks, suitcases and handbags in 1921. The idea of this collaboration struck me as a perfect opportunity to create a new modern travel statement in this Gucci's 90th anniversary year".
Styling details are really what seperate the Gucci version from the standard Fiat 500 (or cinquecento as it's known in Italy), both sharing the same body, chassis and 1.4 liter, 100 HP engine. The standard Fiat 500 is expected in dealers here in the US next month. Local Fiat dealers include one in Fremont and another in Concord. US fuel economy ratings were recently released, with the Fiat 500 delivering 30 MPG in the city, 38 MPG on the highway.
According to Fiat the black and white colors of the 500 by Gucci, in unique eye-catching glossy pearl glass paint, set the stage for a neo-classic black and white film. These two distinct colors complement one another: black, with detailing in shiny chrome paired with interiors that contrast sharp black and white, for a contemporary and racy attitude. White, with satin chrome detailing and ivory and black interiors provide for a softer, more sophisticated look. The hubcaps feature the interlocking GG in the same color as the body of the car, while rear brake calipers are painted in Gucci green. The cursive Gucci signature appears on the hatchback as well on the doorpost.
The car's silhouette is outlined by Gucci's signature green-red-green stripe, which runs along the entire perimeter and links the exterior to the interior. The stripe also appears inside on the seats, on the gear shift, the key-cover, the carpets, and in an innovative finish on the seatbelts. According to Fiat, the interior space of the 500 by Gucci is stylish yet functional down to every last detail: chic embroidery, exclusive materials, glossy and satin chromes, a velvety varnish on the dashboard, and two-toned leather seats with the Guccissima print.
Gucci has also created a fashion collection to match its version of the Fiat 500. The collection includes travel accessories, leather goods, clothes, sunglasses and a watch, which will be available in select Gucci stores starting in April.
