After the success of the new Fiat 500 in Turin, Paris, Berlin and London, attention has turned to Tokyo (Japan) where a novel exhibition was dedicated to the car. The event saw more that 500 guests participate, including journalists, entertainers, representatives from Italian institutions (including ambassador Mario Bova) and the managing director of Fiat Automobiles - Lorenzo Sistino.
Through this striking exhibition, the Italian brand paid homage to Japanese culture, underlining the strong ties that unite the two nations. Japan is particularly attuned to the best Made in Italy products – from fashion to design, gastronomy and art. Among these, the Fiat Group has contributed to shaping the “automobile culture” even outside of the national confines.
Alongside the event in Tokyo, the work of artist Giuliano Ghelli was displayed in the exhibition rooms of the Italian Centre for Culture. Among the works of the Tuscan maestro, the “Macchina per Sognatori” (Car for Dreamers) stands out. The work is a tribute to the Fiat 500 – a symbol of Made in Italy and an ambassador for environmental compliance, as already demonstrated today by its “Euro5 Ready” engines.
The new Fiat 500 comes from a true automotive legend and represents a legacy of stories and concepts that relate to all. It is no accident that this is the “people’s car, created by people” - as its commercial debut also showed (from 15 March) alongside Japan’s spectacular event: the “Sakura” - cherry blossom. For about two weeks in spring, “hanami” – picnics - take place (both day and night) under the spectacular trees which are by now in full bloom. The whole population participates in a ritual dedicated to the beauty of nature.
And in merrymaking Italian style, the brand will open the Fiat Café this spring in Aoyama (Tokyo). Here, the public will be able to appreciate the concept of the “Caffè” which will be a meeting place for excellence and synonymous with cosmopolitanism, human warmth and compassion. All new 500s maintain the singularity of Fiat models and will feature right-hand drive in Japan. Initially, they will be the Lounge version which has a 1.2 8v 69bhp engine, combined with the Dualogic robotised gearbox. The Pop and Sport versions will then become available as well as the brilliant 1.4 16v 100 bhp engine with Dualogic gearbox.
Finally, highlighting the strong ties between Fiat and the nippon culture, the new Fiat 500 has been “scripted” into the animation film “Lupin the IIIrd. Green vs. Red” (the DVD will be officially launched in Japan on 2nd April). The film celebrates the 40th anniversary of the famous “ladro gentiluomo” (gentleman thief) designed by Monkey Punch. However, it is certainly not the first time that the eclectic character has driven a Fiat 500: in fact, over the years Lupin III has often been spotted on board a 500 during his incredible adventures.
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