Fiat Unveils ‘Hey Google’ Line Of Connected Cars

Fiat has unveiled a version of its popular 500 level cars equipped with Google technology and sporting Google trim elements, according to a press release.

“The 500 Family Hey Google makes it possible to interact remotely with your 500, 500X and 500L in the most intuitive way, with simple voice commands, thanks to the integration of Mopar Connect services and Google Assistant in the ‘My Fiat’ Action,” the release from Fiat’s corporate parent, Stellantis, stated.

With the introduction of the new cars, the release stated, “Google Assistant leaves its mark on a car for the first time.”

According to Stellantis, which also owns brands Jeep, Alfra Romeo and Lancia, among others, Fiat has sold 3.5 million 500-level cars since introducing the model in 2007, the release stated.

With the new Google features, car owners can interact with vehicle systems via smartphones or the Google Nest Hub home-connection device, according to the release. Each new car will come with a Google Nest and special 500-branded skin for it.

“Wherever you are, even from your sofa at home, all it takes is to say, ‘Hey Google, ask My Fiat…’ to find out, for example, where your car is parked, how much fuel is left, the location of the nearest authorized workshop or your mileage that day,” the release stated. “You can also find out whether you have locked your car doors or have left the [trunk] open.”

The system also lets vehicle owners remotely view the location and odometer readings on cars — an option the carmaker noted in the release could appeal to fleet managers — and lock doors, unlock doors or start hazard lights flashing.

Aesthetic changes added to reflect the Google involvement include white and glossy black roofs, “Hey Google” badges on wheel arches, and color embellishments to the central pillars and passenger compartments, according to the release. The cars come with 7-inch touchscreen displays.

Other design elements include 15-inch alloy wheels, new dark interiors and new silver dashboard fascias with white 500 logos, the release stated. The 500 will come in hatchback or cabrio layouts and colors including what Fiat calls Gelato White, Pastel Grey, Vesuvius Black, Pompeii Grey and Blue Italia.

Another model, the 500x Hey Google, has 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps and blacked-out windows, according to the release.