Photo: Fiat
In a not so unpredictable turn of events, Fiat has previously announced that it'll cease production of the 500L mini MPV temporarily over matters 'related to the situation in the European and global automotive markets.' Furthermore, the Fiat Panda supermini will have a similar faith this October.
The Italian brand has told the media that its facility in Pomigliano, southern Italy, will temporarily stop production duties between October 16th and 27th because of 'weak demand.' Bravo, Fiat! Now that's more like it, not the jibber-jabber of a sugarcoat you used to excuse the 500L MPV's production halt.
But here's the thing - unlike the 500L, the Panda is a lot more traditional and accessible because of its supermini architecture. In addition to that, it was the carmaker's biggest seller before the new 500 was launched in 2007, so what the hell happened in the meantime? Taking into account that most new car markets, including North America and Western Europe, are buying more vehicles than in the last few years of recession, all the more reasons why the Panda should be a hot seller nowadays.
Moreover, the entry-level 1.2-liter Panda Pop can be had for just €9,040, which is a competitive price in this segment. That little dribble of dough buys you a pretty potent car, that's got a pretty cavernous boot, seating for five, a fuel efficient mill and quirky styling as well. Whatever the real reason for suspending production is, one thing is certain: it isn't the first time Fiat pulls out of its sleeve the state-backed temporary layoff scheme to avoid over-production. In this regard, roughly a third of the Pomigliano workforce is on solidarity contracts since March.
But here's the thing - unlike the 500L, the Panda is a lot more traditional and accessible because of its supermini architecture. In addition to that, it was the carmaker's biggest seller before the new 500 was launched in 2007, so what the hell happened in the meantime? Taking into account that most new car markets, including North America and Western Europe, are buying more vehicles than in the last few years of recession, all the more reasons why the Panda should be a hot seller nowadays.
Moreover, the entry-level 1.2-liter Panda Pop can be had for just €9,040, which is a competitive price in this segment. That little dribble of dough buys you a pretty potent car, that's got a pretty cavernous boot, seating for five, a fuel efficient mill and quirky styling as well. Whatever the real reason for suspending production is, one thing is certain: it isn't the first time Fiat pulls out of its sleeve the state-backed temporary layoff scheme to avoid over-production. In this regard, roughly a third of the Pomigliano workforce is on solidarity contracts since March.
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