Fiat has introduced the Tris, a new compact, all-electric, three-wheeled vehicle, to its commercial vehicle range. Designed specifically for last-mile logistics and small business use in urban environments, it’s unlike anything else on the market.

At just 3.17 metres long and riding on three wheels, the Tris represents a very different take on commercial transport. It’s about as far removed from a conventional van or pickup as you can get — it’s shorter than a Ford Ranger’s wheelbase.

With a maximum speed of 28mph, it’s firmly limited to inner-city territory, but for operators making frequent short trips in congested areas, particularly in the Middle East and Africa where it launches first, Fiat believes the Tris could be a practical and cost-effective solution.

The Tris is powered by a 48-volt electric motor producing 12hp and 45Nm of torque, with energy supplied by a 6.9kWh lithium-ion battery. That sounds like the same specs as the Citroen Ami, so presumably the two will share many mechanical components.

The range is a claimed 56 miles, which should be more than enough for a day in the city. Charging takes just under five hours using a standard 220V plug. With no need for specialist infrastructure, the Tris is designed to be accessible for users with limited resources or garage space.

Available in three variants — chassis cab, flatbed and pickup — the Tris offers up to 540kg of payload and enough room in the load bed for a standard euro pallet. The modular platform allows for a range of custom body conversions via Fiat’s approved partners.

Fiat Tris flatbed and pickup electric three wheel LCV

Though it may be small, the Tris is built with durability in mind. The tubular frame is corrosion-protected with an automotive-grade zinc coating, and the wider rear track and 12-inch wheels are intended to maximise stability despite its three-wheeled layout.

The single-seat cab features a 5.7-inch digital cluster, a USB-C charging port, a 12V socket, multiple storage bins and (very) basic driver comforts. There’s no clutch or gearbox, and entry is simple, especially on doorless variants intended for frequent stop-start use.

The vehicle will be manufactured in Morocco alongside other Stellantis micro-EVs — the Citroen Ami, Fiat Topolino and Opel Rocks Electric — and while the initial rollout is focused on the Middle East and Africa, Fiat says European markets could follow.

It’s a far cry from something like a Ford Ranger or even Transit Courier, but that’s the point. Fiat isn’t targeting heavy payloads or motorway miles; it’s aiming to serve a different kind of operator. For urban areas with tightening emissions regulations and limited space, or regions where traditional LCV ownership can be out of reach, the Tris promises an alternative that’s more practical than the misjudged Citroen Ami Cargo.

Pricing is yet to be confirmed, but we would expect the Tris to be available for around £10,000 if it makes it to the UK.

Phil Huff