A limited launch for the Fiat 500 at the Freak Out Convention

ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA // Fiat fans who attended the Fiat Freak Out 2010 convention in North Carolina last weekend were treated to an additional surprise ahead of the brand's relaunch in the US market. Laura Soave, head of Fiat North America, announced that convention attendees could reserve one of 500 of the initial limited edition Fiat 500s which have been reserved for the American market. The limited edition Fiat 500 Prima Edizione (First Edition) models will have sequential number vehicle identification numbers, special badges and will only be available in three colours - Grigio (grey), Rosso (red) and Bianco (white). Buyers will also be able to choose the build number for their car. Each Prima Edizione will have a manual transmission mated to a 1.4L, four-cylinder engine that produces 100hp. Fiat left the US market in 1983, except to sell Alfa Romeos until the mid 1990s, but is set to return soon in partnership with Chrysler as part of an audacious attempt to salvage the beleaguered American manufacturer. The first Fiat 500s will be in US dealerships at the end of the year.