he transition from Fiorino to New Fiorino is not just a generational change but a genuine change in conceptual direction for Fiat Professional. Rather than a derivative of an existing model, this is a vehicle designed specifically – in terms of both engineering and style – for its intended application.
While the primary role of the Fiorino continues to be as a work vehicle, it now also caters for passenger transport applications with the Qubo version, which stands apart from the current automotive panorama as an intelligent solution to the needs of personal mobility.
Continuing the ongoing partnership between Fiat and PSA, the Fiorino was developed alongside the Peugeot Bipper and Citroën Nemo as part of the same project.
“The definition”, recalls Peter Jansen, head of style for Fiat Professional, “began in the second half of 2003, with the name ‘Project 225’, and also involved the Turkish company Tofas, which now builds the vehicle in the same plant as the Doblò. Fiat and PSA worked in close conjunction throughout the project. A platform derived from the Grande Punto was chosen as a mechanical base, while initially, each partner developed its own independent proposal, which then contributed to the final model developed in Turin.” Interestingly, Fiat originally opted for a monospace format, while PSA explored a two-box layout, which was the solution eventually chosen.
“Between late 2003 and early 2004”, continues Jansen, “we analysed the first proposals, which were also the product of research into the history of light transport vehicles. Once we had defined the basic direction, we worked on defining an individual brand identity.”
The article continues in Auto & Design no. 172
