Fiat Topolinos proudly displaying the colors of the Arma dei Carabinieri are said to be in the pipeline. While this information should be treated with caution pending official confirmation, social networks were quick to react... with humor.
According to the Instagram account "veicoli_demergenza", which specializes in Italian intervention vehicles, four examples of the Fiat Topolino electric quadricycle are being fitted out for use by the Carabinieri. A first image shows an original livery: institutional blue, prominent "Carabinieri" lettering in white, white roof and rims, and a red stripe to underline it all, not forgetting the two flashing lights on the roof. It's reminiscent of the Fiat Panda 4×4 once used in the mountains, except that this Topolino is not an off-roader.
Targeted utility, but a surprising choice
With its extreme compactness and 100 % electric motor, the Topolino is obviously not intended to replace the more classic Alfa Romeo Giulia, Stelvio and Tonale vehicles in the fleet. Rather, it would be designed for historic centers with narrow streets, or for remote islands and villages where traffic is restricted or impossible for larger vehicles. A hypothesis confirmed by several Internet users in their comments:
"Everyone complains about the vehicle, but we forget that in small villages or islands, a Giulia doesn't even get through."
A pragmatic response... but not enough to quell the sarcasm.
Mockery rains down on networks
The announcement triggered an avalanche of mocking comments online. They read:
"First they complain that the Tonale doesn't hold up, then they take this can of tuna."
"Perfect for bike chases."
"For chasing kids to the playground."
"I understand, but there's no room to transport an arrestee..."
Some point to the irony of an elite corps receiving a vehicle with no trunk, no bench seat, and no real capacity for intervention. Others, on the contrary, see it as a clever solution for police presence in areas that are often neglected or impassable.
Beyond the mockery, this initiative illustrates a willingness to adapt to local constraints. But it also comes at a time of criticism: the Unarma trade union recently expressed doubts about the safety of Alfa Romeo Tonales. The contrast between an SUV criticized for its on-road performance and a Topolino that looks like an electric toy is sure to fuel controversy.
It remains to be seen whether these Topolinos will actually be put into service, and how they will be perceived by the Carabinieri themselves. In the meantime, the little Topolino is getting some unexpected publicity.
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The carabinieri can chase the scooters in their Fiat Topolino, without ever catching up with them.
A Topolino is a good way to pass through village lanes. Although for the police it's a bit ridiculous to drive a Topolino.