A MAJOR manufacturer has unveiled its bizarre new boat-car based on an iconic model, complete with a bevy of bonus equipment.
Only 500 semi-aquatic crossover models are being made by a specialist firm in Monaco.
Fiat has been relentless over the years in its efforts to reinvent the beloved 500 supermini.
The Italian company has produced every possible variant, from hot hatches to hybrids to fully-electric models – or so we thought.
However, even the most ardent Fiat enthusiasts would have been hard pressed to predict that the next version of the legendary car wouldn’t be a car at all.
Partnering with in-house tuning firm Abarth, famously responsible for souped-up fast 500s loved by Brits, and Monaco-based Top Marques, Fiat has now created the 500 Offshore.
The half-car, half-boat mutant has been released to celebrate Abarth’s 75th anniversary.
It features a 230 horsepower outboard motor and is fully buoyant, so will zip across the water with ease.
Unfortunately, it is neither capable nor legally allowed to go on the road, so it’s not going to be squealing around central London anytime soon (unless it’s via the Thames).
Nonetheless, it will come packed with unusual kit to make your Fiat sailing experience the best it can be.
This includes a rear ladder to allow you to climb back on after a dip and even a full set of fishing equipment should you desire it.
Pricing information is yet to be released, but similar crossover concepts developed by the company have sat between £95,000 and £120,000.
While that may seem hefty for the usually £15,000 500, it’s still a very good rate for a small yacht.
Dr Antonio Galasso, CEO of Car-Offshore, said: “At first, they thought I was crazy.
“The iconic 500 is always with me, an integral part of my daily life that I can’t live without.”
And Damien Dally, Fiat UK’s managing director, added: “There truly is nothing more La Dolce Vita in life than this.
“The Fiat 500 is a design recognised the world over, but I must admit I never thought I’d see that iconic silhouette floating on the Amalfi Coast.
“It’s official, it looks as stunning on land as it does in the sea.”
