The new Fiat Pulse Hybrid arrives on the Brazilian market promising greater economy and a more efficient and sustainable driving experience, in addition to marking Fiat's entry into the 100% national hybrid vehicle segment.
During an exclusive event held in Belo Horizonte, automotive specialist João Anacleto tested the new Fiat Pulse Hybrid on the streets and analyzed the engine's behavior and vehicle consumption, offering valuable insights for those who are in doubt about the viability of this model.
The new feature features the Mild Hybrid system, which, despite not being a full hybrid, promises savings of up to 15% compared to the traditional combustion model.
According to Anacleto, the new Fiat Pulse Hybrid combines a T200 1.0 turbo engine with an advanced alternator and a small lithium battery under the seat, resulting in a performance which alternates between the combustion engine and the electric motor to reduce consumption and CO₂ emissions.
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This combination allows the driver to benefit from greater efficiency, especially in urban environments, where stopping and starting are more frequent.
Consumption and economy: does the new Fiat Pulse Hybrid really make a difference?
During the test, Anacleto highlighted that the economy promised by Fiat was confirmed on the streets of Belo Horizonte. With a predominantly urban route of around 11 km, the new Fiat Pulse Hybrid demonstrated efficiency in both consumption and pollutant emissions.
For João Anacleto, the difference lies in the energy regeneration system: when slowing down or braking, the model's lithium battery is recharged, helping with starting and air conditioning without depending entirely on the combustion engine.
This detail makes fuel consumption and CO₂ reduction more visible, and the start-stop system has been improved, working more smoothly and discreetly.
During the test route with the hybrid model, the vehicle recorded an average consumption of 5,9 km per liter, higher than the combustion model, which recorded 5,7 km per liter on the same route.
Although the difference in consumption may seem small, this saving is amplified over long distances. The expert explains that with the New Fiat Pulse Hybrid, it is possible to save around 16% on fuel and proportionally reduce CO₂ emissions.
The 5 km/l mentioned refer to a specific urban consumption test carried out in heavy traffic conditions, which directly affected performance and reduced average consumption.
This is common in field tests, where consumption may be lower due to factors such as heavy traffic, hills and frequent stops, characteristics that do not represent official consumption, but rather a realistic situation of use in extreme urban conditions.
Under normal conditions, Inmetro data points to a much higher average, as mentioned: around 13,4 km/l in the city with gasoline and 9,3 km/l with ethanol. This type of difference reflects the reality that consumption varies according to the scenario and the fuel.
Design and equipment
Visually, the New Fiat Pulse Hybrid remains similar to the combustion model, maintaining the same level of equipment and comfort. Only the Audace and Ímpetus versions will receive the hybrid system, with initial prices of R$ 124.000 and R$ 139.000, respectively.
Anacleto observed that the only external change is the “Hybrid” marking on the trunk lid, which maintains the Pulse’s well-known aesthetic.
Inside, the instrument panel has also undergone minor updates, with a display that shows the energy flow and use of the hybrid engine in real time.
Engine and consumption: the experience of driving the new Fiat Pulse Hybrid
In addition to the engine and consumption, the expert commented on the experience of driving the New Fiat Pulse Hybrid. According to Anacleto, the Mild Hybrid system is designed especially for urban journeys, where the car switches more frequently between the combustion engine and electric assistance.
He pointed out that the improved start-stop system makes the vehicle feel like a premium model, eliminating the annoying jerk when starting and stopping in heavy traffic.
Anacleto also clarified that the New Fiat Pulse Hybrid system is not yet a full hybrid, but an important step towards the electrification of Fiat's lineup.
On steeper routes with frequent stops, such as those on the hills of Belo Horizonte, the Pulse demonstrated considerable efficiency by regenerating energy during braking and reducing the force required by the combustion engine, ensuring additional savings.
Is it worth investing?
With the new Fiat Pulse Hybrid, Fiat opens a new phase in the Brazilian market, offering a more economical and ecological option for those looking for an efficient city car.
According to João Anacleto, savings of up to 16% and reduced emissions make the extra investment in a hybrid model worthwhile, especially for those who travel in cities with heavy traffic and want a car that contributes to a more sustainable environment.
Finally, the expert highlights that, although the New Fiat Pulse Hybrid is not a full electric vehicle, it represents a significant step forward towards a greener future in the Brazilian automotive sector.
Fiat also promises to introduce plug-in hybrid and electric versions in the coming years, which should further expand the vehicle options. sustainable mobility for the local consumer.