Fiat Unveils Multiplay Concept With Modular Minivan-to-Pickup Design
The concept features a sliding rear section and a dedicated 'Petsenger' seat for animals or child car mounts.
Fiat has revealed the Multiplay concept, a vehicle that revives the Multipla nameplate with a modular design capable of transforming from an SUV-like minivan into a pickup truck. The concept emphasizes versatility through a sliding rear section and unique interior configurations.
What Happened
The Multiplay concept utilizes a sliding rear body section to change its form factor. In its minivan configuration, the vehicle offers a 6+1 seating arrangement, including a modular "Petsenger" seat that serves as a dedicated space for pets or a mounting point for child car seats. This section includes a detachable turquoise base that functions as a leash and a folding bowl stored in a door compartment. When converted to pickup form, one rear seat backrest slides forward to create a four-seater layout, and the roof spoiler doubles as an integrated bike rack for camping gear or bicycles. Fiat has not disclosed the powertrain specifications for the concept, though the source notes that if it were to enter production, it would likely be an electric vehicle due to the platform’s short overhangs and long wheelbase.
Why It Matters
The concept demonstrates Fiat’s strategy to maximize utility within compact vehicle segments, challenging the need for multiple vehicle ownership for different use cases. While Fiat did not specify production plans, the design draws a parallel to previous industry attempts at modularity, such as the 2003 Citroën C3 Pluriel, which faced reliability issues with its intricate roof mechanism. The Multiplay’s approach relies on sliding components rather than removable roof panels, potentially addressing some of the practical shortcomings seen in earlier modular vehicles.
The Bottom Line
Fiat’s Multiplay concept showcases a versatile, multi-mode vehicle design with a focus on family and pet utility. With no official powertrain details or production timeline announced, the concept remains a demonstration of Fiat’s potential direction for compact electric vehicles.
