The Fiat 500 has returned to the United States. But this time, it’s been recharged as an all-electric model and an all-electric model only, hence the “500e” designation.

That’s a pretty big shakeup. Though if you were a fan of the internal-combustion 500, you may still find plenty to love here because the 500e is otherwise still very small by American standards, very quirky, and very Italian.

A previous battery-electric 500 was held back by a meager 87 miles of range. This completely revamped 2024 model sees a sizeable uptick: an official EPA estimate of 149 miles combined, and in our initial range test we saw a potential 174 miles in mixed driving.

That may still pale in comparison to other battery-electrics on the market today, but it’s a big improvement for the 500e and it’s acceptable given the small 42-kilowatt-hour battery pack. If you consider this 143-inch long BEV as the city traverser it’s intended to be, that’s reasonable.

As is the 117 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque conjured by the single electric motor mounted upfront. Certainly not overwhelming, but a sensible amount of pep around town and even further out.

“As one would expect, the Fiat 500e is perfectly at home on city and small-town streets; but then that extra heft from the battery actually gives it a… kind of planted feel, which is appreciated out on the highway; though, you will be kept on your otes at first next to all these hulking SUVs and pickup trucks. Look, this Rose Gold paintjob and that beautiful bright red you can get, they do stand out, but don’t forget you’re still a relatively small entity on American byways.

Now, the gearhead part of me does miss that noticeable bark of an Abarth-tuned engine, but there is something to be said about the bliss of silent EV propulsion. And, hey, there’s no need for the occasional ‘Italian Tune-Up’ with this thing, though that’s really a pro or a con depending on your personality type.”

You’d assume the big trade-off for side street sensibility would be interior space. That’s only partially the case. Yes, the 2+2 seating arrangement isn’t ideal for long road trips with four adults, but I was surprised by how much room I was able to muster with proper seat adjustments.

Perhaps mirroring the overall form factor, the screens have been limited to a 7-inch gauge cluster and 10.25-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system, as opposed to large tablets and panoramic displays. As someone who is starting to feel the screen fatigue to a degree, this is appreciated. But on the point of technology, the wireless smartphone integration worked well, as did the wireless device charger.

Elsewhere in the cabin is a mix of materials, some better than others, but the overall fit and finish is good. And physical controls for the HVAC system? That’s a big win for this little Italy on wheels.

The 2024 Fiat 500e is available now, starting around $34,000 before any incentives and working up to just under $38K for one of the specially designed and designated trims.

We’re going to have a full test of the Fiat 500e soon; until then, drive safe and stay tuned to MotorWeek.