Panda Hybrids and Fiat 500 get Germ-Killing Package “D-Fence”.

For maximum hygiene, a UV light, purifier, and air filters reduce the presence of microbes in the interior.

Communities around the globe are slowly resuming routine activities like driving after the coronavirus epidemic. Fiat offers a “D–Fence” package for the newly introduced 500 Hybrid or Panda Hybrid. Prices in Europe start at 9,820 and 10,714 euros respectively (currently $11,868 and $10,878).

This package was developed by Mopar and includes a high-performance filter and purifier, as well as an ultraviolet light. These help to disinfect surfaces that are touched the most like the shift knob and steering wheel.

The cabin air filter filters the air before it enters its HVAC system. The air purifier works in conjunction with the cabin air filter to remove micro-particles such as pollen and bacteria. The UV lamp cleans the interior and acts as a germicide to kill viruses. Although it hasn’t been shown that UV light can break down the novel coronavirus SARSCoV-2, however, it does work on other germs like those that caused the 2003 SARS epidemic. Disinfection is a major consideration right now. This makes some D-Fence packages’ items very appealing to consumers.

Panda Hybrids and Fiat 500 get Germ-Killing Package "D-Fence".

The Mopar package not only responds to current health concerns, but also the 500 and Panda are sensitive to the environment. The Fiat hybrids are small and connect a naturally-aspirated 1.0-liter FireFly inline-three to a battery-starter generator, lithium ion battery, as well as a data-inline-widget=”internal-links” data-params=”%7B%22make_alias%22%3A%22fiat%22%2C%22alias%22%3A%22panda%22%7D” data-type-id of a similar design of 48 jolt While the generator produces only 4.8 horsepower (3.6kilowatts), the engine generates 70 horsepower (52 kW). Panda and 500 owners should expect to make extensive use of the standard six speed manual transmission.

The mild-hybrid allows for “sailing,” which is where the gasoline engine shuts off while the coaster goes. This saves fuel and reduces emissions. It allows for a smoother, more responsive idle stop/start as well as acceleration in certain cases. The mild hybrids emit 30% less carbon dioxide than the conventional Panda and 500 models with a 69-hp gasoline motor.

Fiat has also announced a financing campaign that allows buyers to purchase one of the hybrid models for just 4 euros per day, without any down payment, as part of D-Fence. Fiat’s Europe-only FCA Bank proposal is an opportunity to establish itself as an alternative for public transport. The driver pays the same daily price as a pair or metro tickets in cities like Paris and Rome. Fiat’s payment plan and D-Fence package are part Fiat’s efforts to help people return to normal by providing affordable, clean motoring.