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Fiat 500: The Design Book

A visual history of the FIAT 500, the ultimate lifestyle car that has remained a timeless classic and design legend. Considered to be one of the most popular models in automotive history, the FIAT 500 has become a legend over time. Its innovative features, the original and recognizable design of its bodywork, and its versatility have distinguished it as an automotive icon with enduring appeal. FIAT 500: The Design Book is an invitation to embark on a captivating journey through the main milestones of the 500 project: from the first series in the 1960s to the public presentation at the Geneva International Motor Show of the Trepiùno prototype in 2004, of the new 500 and 500C, the 500L through to the 500X. This visually rich and fascinating book explains not only the genesis and "design metamorphosis" of each model, but also their backgrounds, and explores the contributions of the designers who have helped to develop them with innovation and foresight.

About The Author

Fiat, an acronym for Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino, was founded in 1899 and is among the world’s leading automobile brands. Its cars are often celebrated as icons of Italian industrial design, and the re-launched Fiat 500 was named European Car of the Year in 2008. In June 2010, Fiat announced its acquisition of a stake in Chrysler, which would also see Fiat brands sold once again in the U.S. market.

  • Publish Date: March 01, 2016
  • Format: Hardcover
  • Category: Transportation - Automotive - Pictorial
  • Publisher: Rizzoli
  • Trim Size: 8-3/4 x 9-1/4
  • Pages: 144
  • US Price: $35.00
  • CDN Price: $35.00
  • ISBN: 978-0-8478-4753-2

Reviews

"This visually rich and fascinating book explains not only the genesis and design metamorphosis of each model, but also their backgrounds, and explores the contributions of the innovative designers who have helped to develop them . . . Capturing both the car’s retro-Italian allure and bold futuristic imagination, FIAT 500: THE DESIGN BOOK is a must-read for the serious collector, car show fan, design aficionado, and proud FIAT owner."
-360 MAGAZINE

 
"The Fiat 500 is one of the most easily recognized vehicles on the road. It is petite, stylish, and colorful, hallmarks of basic transportation with a distinct design flair. . . Although the original 500 may be relatively unknown to American consumers, the new model provides a lesson in all things Fiat with a contemporary twist. [Fiat 500: The Design Book] breaks down the common trim levels - Pop, Easy, and Lounge - carefully explaining what elements of Italian design (purses, dresses, and even zippers) had in forming the look. Fiat 500: The Design Book is for automotive enthusiasts and fashion designers alike." 
-AUTO TRENDS MAGAZINE

"There are pages of designer commentary, illustrations, and sketches of various Fiat 500 design elements . . . If one wishes to get a peek into the process that takes place before a car goes into production, [Fiat 500: The Design Book] offers it up by showing the influences that contributed to the design of today's 500, and perhaps gives us a glimpse into the future." 
-PETROLICIOUS