The Pope Goes Micro EV
Hot on the heels of His Holiness being photographed looking somewhat bemused (amused?) with the new Ferrari Luce (which means ‘light’), today in a rather posh ceremony attended by Vatican officials - plus Fiat CEO Oliver Francois - the Vatican State announced it had taken delivery of 20 new Fiat Topolinos; the cuter, Italian siblings of the Citroën Ami, along with 10 of the new three-wheeler Tris electric mini-trucks (think Piaggio Ape or tuk-tuk).
According to the joint Fiat and Vatican State press release, these vehicles “will be used by employees of the Governorate for internal operations and activities, contributing to more efficient, practical and low-impact mobility.” The move forms part of the Vatican’s “Ecological Conversion 2030” programme, which aims for a zero-emissions fleet by the end of the decade, fully aligned with Fiat’s micromobility strategy.
Now, I know it’s presumptuous, but I’d love to see His Holiness Pope Leo XIV being ferried around in one of the “Little Mice”. Its a far cry from the official state Popemobile that he is now accustomed to, but these seem absolutely fitting for the world’s smallest country, along with its climate.
Why it makes sense: Vatican City is tiny (just 0.44 km² / 109 acres). Everything is walkable, so micro-EVs are perfect for staff shuttling goods/people without emissions or noise.
What’s your thoughts on this? Will they be rejoicing or looking for some forgiveness? Drop us reply on X @ctrlaltrefuel
