Since becoming Director of Design at the Centro Stile of Betim eight years ago, one of Peter Fassbender most challenging assignments had been to design a new generation of a Giugiaro classic - much loved in Brazil - the Fiat Uno. The new design was developed mainly in Brazil, but also a few months in Italy, closer to the supervision of Lorenzo Ramaciotti, Group Chief of Design at Fiat.
The new generation Uno was launched earlier this year and it has been a hit. Until now the model has only been sold in a four-door configuration. The Cabrio concept, unveiled at the 2010 Sao Paulo Auto Show, is the first to adopt the two-door body, and will soon be marketed. According to Fiat, the Cabrio concept demonstrates how versatile the new Uno platform is.
The Uno Cabrio concept features prominent fenders and spoilers, 17-inch wheels, air intakes on the side and other sporting accessories. The engine selected to power the concept was a 1.4L Turbo, with 152bhp.
As with the RockeT from VW, the Cabrio has twin brake lights fitted behind the seats. The clear LED taillights, give an even softer look to the car. CDN learned that their shape might appear in the two-door production model.
According to the Valeria Santos, from the color and trim team in Betim, the interior followed a vintage racing car look. From there came the three-spoke steering-wheel, aluminum details and the sports bucket seats.
Besides giving the Uno the spotlight at the auto show, the Cabrio investigates the acceptance of two rare vehicle typologies in Brazil: a convertible and a two-seater. Convertibles have not been very popular because of security issues, despite the great Brazilian weather. Nevertheless, the Cabrio made a good impact at the show and hopefully will persuade more Brazilians of the joy to be had in from taking their tops off.
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