Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
Fiat 500 Tender2 by Carrozzeria Castagna Milano.
The Fiat 500 Tender2 is a bespoke, open-air concept vehicle developed by the Italian coachbuilder Carrozzeria Castagna Milano. First introduced in 2008, the Tender2 reimagines the classic Fiat 500 as a luxurious beach cruiser, drawing inspiration from the iconic Fiat 600 Jolly of the 1950s. This modern interpretation combines nautical design elements with contemporary electric vehicle technology, offering a unique blend of retro charm and modern functionality. The Tender2’s design emphasizes open-air motoring, featuring the removal of traditional doors and roof. In place of doors, the vehicle incorporates elevated access thresholds, enhancing its beach-ready aesthetic. The rear seats are also removed, creating a spacious cargo area adorned with teak wood decking, reminiscent of luxury yachts. This nautical theme extends to the interior, where mahogany accents and eco-friendly materials like eco-leather and Alcantara are used throughout. Notable features include a built-in shower system with a 30-liter fresh water tank, a hidden safe for valuables, and a ‘Vodka-Cigar’ mini-fridge capable of chilling beverages or maintaining optimal humidity for cigars. These amenities underscore the vehicle’s focus on leisure and luxury, catering to clients seeking a distinctive and indulgent driving experience. Despite its extensive modifications, the vehicle maintains the performance and efficiency characteristics of the standard 500e.Each Tender2 is a one-off creation, handcrafted to the specifications of individual clients. The customization process can take over 2,000 hours, with prices reportedly reaching up to €90,000. In 2013, an American collector purchased a Tender2 for $104,000, marking one of the first exports of a Castagna vehicle to the United States in nearly six decades
The birth of the Spiaggina (Spiaggia = Beach) takes place in the immediate post-war period at the initiative of some Italian coachbuilders which transformed small mass production cars in order to make them suitable for the needs of wealthy customers during the holiday period in the seaside resorts.
