Editor’s Note: This document refers to the Italian specifcation cars, not Australian and New Zealand models.

Fiat Ritmo

The model in brief

Beauty as the most up-to-dateexpression of Italian style

The good looks of a coupé, the roominess of a saloonClass-beating ergonomics and roominessA new logo for the Fiat brand

The Substance of an innovative,reliable, quality car

Sophisticated technologies for record-breaking development timeClass-beating safetyEngines and gearboxes: extremely enjoyable to driveSuspension that guarantees excellent handling and comfortThe quality of life on boardThe Piedimonte S. Germano plant

A specific response to every demandThe range (Italian market) The proposals of Fiat Auto Financial Services

Spec sheets

The model in brief

When Beauty encounters Substance

The new Fiat Ritmo is a perfect balance of Beauty and Substance, another milestone in the

process to update the brand’s product range. This extraordinary period of change is symbolised by

the new logo that makes its debut on the front of this new model, with which Fiat will tackle the

challenges of the future, without turning its back on its past century of history. This essential sign,

full of references to tradition, was created to express 'change in continuity', and to represent from a

modern viewpoint a human and technological heritage that few of the world’s carmakers can boast.

Historical identity and state-of-the-art engineering skills, pride in its past and a renewed

determination to innovate: this is the context in which the new Fiat Ritmo was developed, a

beautiful well-built Italian hatchback, which is agile, entertaining to drive, and competitive, thanks to

the excellent balance between content and price. The new Fiat Ritmo is 'concrete beauty', a car

that reiterates the aesthetic canons of Italian styling tradition. It was designed to give customers

the substance that comes from outstanding safety and reliability, coupled with the enjoyable, sporty

driving style that the whole world expects from an Italian car.

The new model was presented in the spectacular setting of the Stadium of Marble in Rome,

the Eternal City, in one of the most important examples of Neoclassical architecture. This beautiful

stadium, which is inside the Foro Italico, was built in the 1930s by Renato Ricci (1896-1956), who

decided to decorate the stands with an array of statues in Greek style produced by young sculptors

who were unknown at the time. The end result is an extraordinary stadium where each figure,

sculpted in white marble, embodies the power of an athletic movement in a form of refined beauty.

One of the characteristics of Neoclassical art was to reproduce reality by taking Beauty as the ideal

of perfection and balance, not just copying nature but trying to grasp its intrinsic essence.

The decision was a pondered one, because the goal of this artistic movement, which

developed in Europe between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was to recover in a

contemporary key the aesthetics, forms, noble materials, building techniques and artisan skills of

Graeco-Roman tradition, the cradle of every subsequent artistic manifestation of Western culture:

from literature to the theatre, music and architecture. The neoclassical artist did not improvise, but

summed up tradition in every work, with exemplary control over his emotions, perfect mastery of

his materials and a broad knowledge of history.

The choice of this site underlines an ideal parallel with the Ritmo project. When they

developed the project, the engineers, designers, technicians and marketing staff also set out to

create a 'new classic': in the design, by references to the great Italian styling tradition; by

respecting the 'fundamentals', such as the quality of the materials and the assembly, safety, and

exploitability of space, and comfort, which have always decreed a car’s success; and finally, in the

technological components and cutting edge engineering processes, including recourse to virtual

development techniques that have made it possible to cut lead times and to check even the tiniest

details related to quality and performance thousands of times.

Rigour and Love: the best way of creating a car

The launch is charged with other symbolism. The New Fiat Ritmo project challenged

accepted paradigms where the design and development of a new model are concerned, in terms of

time and methodologies. This extraordinary result was achieved thanks to the rigorous integration

of the best processes, and the application of the most advanced technologies, but above all the

essential contribution of Fiat’s men and women, and the commitment, creativeness and love that

they put into their work. To convey this immense undertaking, for the debut of the new Ritmo, Fiat

insisted on the extraordinary participation of the performers of 'Le Cirque du Soleil': a perfect

organisation, but above all 'the best artists in the world', as the international press has described

them. It is certainly one of the most extraordinary live performances on the planet.

'Le Cirque du Soleil' employs about 3000 people, and performers include numerous

Olympic champions and former champions, who currently give life to 5 resident companies (all in

the United States) and 6 touring companies that perform simultaneously all over the world, and are

regularly sold out. The various shows share maniacal attention to the tiniest detail, because

everything is done by hand and nothing is left to chance. It was the first time that 'Le Cirque du

Soleil' has put on a performance in Italy designed specifically for a corporate event, in front of an

audience of more than 6,000 journalists, dealers, suppliers and representatives of large client

companies from 72 countries, plus 3000 children from Rome who attended the first night and

enjoyed a magical dream come true.

The parallel with the Circus world is appropriate, because the circus is hard work, talent,

and creativeness, preparation and dedication, professional skill and passion, coordination,

collaboration and teamwork, dexterity and lightness, magic without tricks, a dream but not an

illusion. Just like the project to develop a new car: months of hard work, involving hundreds of

people, and a huge investment. A perfect mechanism, for a spectacle that leaves no space for

pretence or for second chances. At the first turn of the key, everything must function perfectly, year

in and year out, repeat after repeat.

'Authentic Italian Beauty'

Designed by the Fiat Style Centre, the model sets out to attract the public with its

uncluttered, smooth lines, which on one hand confirm Fiat’s determination to create a new 'family

feeling', beginning with the Grande Punto, while on the other hand they reinvent the stylistic

elements of the great Italian car-making tradition, without exaggeration or stylistic excesses:

authentic beauty in other words, that is reassuring and easy to understand. The raked, forward

windscreen, the drop-shaped headlights, the sporty grille that frames the new logo, and even the

colour chosen for the launch campaign, known as Maranello Red, which is a clear tribute to the

best-known symbol of Italian automotive excellence: Ferrari.

The new Fiat Ritmo is born from this cultural and stylistic heritage, a five-door saloon with a

sleek, aggressive line, which is refined and compact at the same time. It is 434 centimetres long,

179 cm wide, and 149 cm high, with a wheelbase of 260 cm, and a loading capacity of 400 litres

that tops its class.

The beautiful 'dress' made by Fiat contains all the substance of a car built to surprise in the

category that rules the European market, to convince a clientele that considers the cars of this

class as a real investment, because they are the family’s main car. The Ritmo aims to make the

difference in terms of quality, comfort, practicality and the versatility of the interior. Anyone who

gets into the car will immediately be aware of the quality leap that everyone at Fiat was determined

to achieve. The refinement of the materials and the colour combinations, the solidity, attention to

detail and painstaking assembly, all represent a new standard for Fiat and a benchmark for the

market.

Innovation, reliability and quality

Substance also means performance, safety and technology.

The launch of the new Fiat Ritmo is also an opportunity to present the new family of

turbocharged T-JET petrol engines (120 and 150 bhp 1.4 Turbo), which combine fuel economy,

low emissions and exceptional performance, and now join the popular range of Multijet common

rail turbodiesels (1.9 litres delivering 120 and 150 bhp) and the 90 bhp 1.4 16v petrol engine.

Comfort is enhanced by the pinpoint steering and excellent roadholding, and the choice of

two tried and tested suspension systems which have been suitably modified and updated: an

independent MacPherson system at the front, and a semi-independent torsion axle with

interconnected wheels at the rear.

The Fiat Ritmo was designed to score maximum points in passive and active safety tests,

thanks to several airbags (as many as 7), three-point seat-belts with pre-tensioners and load

limiters, and five head-restraints. Another aspect of safety regards the 'Pedestrian impact', which

was taken into account during the design of the chassis, designed to maximise the absorption of

this type of impact. The new model also features the most sophisticated electronic systems to

monitor the vehicle’s dynamic behaviour, such as ABS complete with EBD, the sophisticated ESP

system with a Hill Holder, and ASR anti-slip regulation.

The Fiat Ritmo embodies new technologies, not only where engineering is concerned, but

also in the use of electronics at the service of comfort and well-being on board. The best example

of this is the new generation of the 'Blue&Me' system, known as 'Blue&Me Nav'. This technology,

which is a Fiat Group exclusive, developed with Microsoft, combines the functions of the first

generation with a highly efficient pictogram navigation system, and access to a series of telematic

services, that convey the true spirit of Fiat: simple, useful and at the right price.

The 'dual-zone' automatic climate system, a choice of two radios with specific Hi-Fi

systems, the large panoramic opening sunroof, Cruise Control, a rain sensor, parking sensors and

foglights with a self-adaptive cornering function, complete the array of equipment to customise the

car, and to make life on board a pleasure for every occupant.

And finally, to underline the generosity of this project, the Fiat Ritmo range will be broad

and comprehensive right from its launch, with a choice of 5 engines, 12 elegant liveries and 4 outfit

levels (Active, Dynamic, Emotion and Sport), all designed to offer the customer outstanding value

for money.

Made in Italy, Sold around the world

The new Fiat Ritmo aims to become the benchmark for what is the most important segment

of the European market, which accounted for over 3,400,000 cars sold in 2006, or little more than

one fifth of the total market (a value that has been practically constant since 2000).

It is clearly a very interesting segment but one that is also highly competitive, with about 30

different models, from full-liners and premium European, Asian and American manufacturers. We

should also underline that the largest grouping in the medium sized saloon category is made up of

2-box saloons or hatchbacks, which account for over 71% of sales. About 25% of total sales for

this category are destined to the corporate market, where qualities such as residual value,

operating costs, reliability and price are important considerations. But these are areas in which the

Fiat Ritmo will be one of the most competitive models on the market. With these expectations, the

long-established plant in Piedimonte S. Germano (Frosinone) and its 3500 employees are

preparing themselves enthusiastically to turn out an average of 120,000 cars a year, which will be

marketed in 55 countries around the world, starting in 2007.

Beauty as the most up-to-date expression of Italian style

The good looks of a coupé,the roominess of a saloon

Developed by the Fiat Style Centre, the design of the Ritmo is a perfect blend of

aggressiveness and power, as you would expect of a 5-door compact, set off by an extraordinary

amount of roominess inside. A sporty, flowing line that guarantees robustness and agility in spite of

its aesthetic refinement.

To start with, the new model is generously sized – 434 centimetres long, 179 cm wide, 149

cm high and with a wheelbase of 260 cm – even if the Ritmo’s smooth, almost aggressive lines

give it a sporty, sparkling and extremely dynamic look, designed to underline its ‘muscles’ simply

and straightforwardly. The Fiat Ritmo’s strong personality is particularly evident at the front; the

front end is important, like that of a small GT, into which the elongated headlights are set with

original tension and strong Italian styling (they are the work of Magneti Marelli - Automotive

Lighting).

The externals a succession of classical references, an excellent opportunity to re-read the

brand’s traditional styling elements in a modern key. Take a quick look. First, the original rear light

clusters which recall those of the previous Ritmo, which were also the work of Magneti Marelli -

Automotive Lighting. The front reiterates the distinctive features of recent Fiat models, particularly

the Grande Punto: from the raked, forward windscreen to the drop-shaped headlights, inspired by

the well-known Italian GT tradition, down to the graphics of the lower air intake and the grille. The

tapering of the front and rear underline the impression of great compactness conveyed by the Fiat

Ritmo. But this in no way diminishes the elegance of the lines that run smoothly from front to back,

into the integral bumpers and the light clusters with their converging wedge shape. Suffice it to say

that in the rear, the waistline is high and slopes sharply, to emphasise the sense of sportiness.

The styling of the Ritmo reconciles stylistic elements that were once irreconcilable. For

example, a front end that is aggressive but modelled to respect pedestrian safety requirements.

Both the structure and the modelling are the fruit of detailed analysis, developed in line with the

latest legislation, which envisages rounder shapes, a wider bonnet and a tapered bumper

structure, which is easily perceptible in the plan view, to reduce the area involved in a collision to a

minimum.

And if the Fiat Ritmo conveys a new concept of sportiness on the outside, the inside

environment is one of superb quality and painstaking attention to detail, giving a sensation of great

solidity and compactness. The design, materials and fabrics used are all enhanced by the carefully

chosen colour combinations, which underline the elegance or sportiness of the different versions.

The Active outfit offers 2 interior environments, the Dynamic and Emotion versions offer a choice of

3 environments with 3 different shades, and the Sport outfit proposes 2 environments in 2 different

colours. Ritmo customers are also offered leather upholstery: on the Dynamic and Elegance

versions, this comes in black with grey or blue stitching, or in marmoset with contrasting stitching.

The Sport outfit offers black leather upholstery with red or blue overstitching.

The front and rear seats of the Ritmo deserve a special mention. They were designed to

guarantee the best possible comfort to all passenger percentiles, and developed in close

collaboration with the best Italian ergonomics and sports medicine specialists. First of all, to

enhance comfort and to absorb vibration in particular, the front seats incorporate an improved

lumbar support system that sustains the back better. The front seats are also padded with foam

that adapts to the shape of the body and have an 'antisubmarining' structure that prevents the body

from sliding forward, under the seat-belt, in the event of a violent head-on impact. The front seats

also offer various adjustments: height, longitudinal (with a stroke of an amazing 240 mm), squab

rake (by a knob that provides continuous step adjustment), and lumbar. The height of the head-

restraints can be adjusted and, on request, they can be fitted with an anti-whiplash system, which

brings the restraint closer to the occupant’s neck in the event of a collision. And finally, the front

seats offer the option of electric movement and adjustment, with intuitive, ergonomic controls.

The rear seat squab splits 40/60, and the seats incorporate an antisubmarining structure

and padding with differentiated support in different parts of the seat cushion (this is a parameter

that measures the compression of the padding under the weight of the body). The rear seats are

also fitted with Isofix attachments for child seats, and three head-restraints.

Great care has gone into the design of the instrument panel (developed by Magneti Marelli),

which is enclosed in a dashboard that is turned entirely towards the driver, with soft lines that blend

aesthetically with the lines of the facia. The large, immediately visible digits of the instrument

graphics make the information easy to read and readily available. At night the illumination is

orange, a shade that allows the pupil to focus more rapidly when alternating between the dark of

the road outside and the luminosity of the dashboard. The onboard instrumentation is available in

two versions, depending on the outfit, and includes a number of important functions. For example,

the multi-function display gives access to several menus, and sub-menus. These speak the driver’s

language (there is a choice of Italian, English, German, Portuguese, Spanish, French, Dutch,

Polish and Turkish), and offer a wide range of functions, including the time, date, programmable

acoustic signal, radio visualisation, check control and more besides. There is also a trip computer,

of course, which provides a data set regarding previous journeys and the current journey.

Class-beatingergonomics and roominess

The Fiat Ritmo is friendly and practical, with an unbeatable amount of living space and

passenger room, that is hinted at by the exterior dimensions. The new model promises comfortable

journeys, and the enjoyment of tangible, all-enveloping well-being on board. The engineers have

achieved this goal by adopting the latest ergonomic criteria from the earliest stages of the

development of the Fiat Ritmo to define the parameters that measure a car’s capacity to respond

to the demand for well-being and comfort on board. As a result, the Ritmo achieves excellent

values for the essential ergonomic functions: space and interior volume, roominess, access,

visibility, loading capacity and user-friendliness.

These characteristics have always been winning qualities, and today they are even more

important, because we spend more time in our cars, we are becoming more accustomed to cars

from higher segments, which are therefore roomier, and the average height of the population is

increasing. This is another reason why the Ritmo achieves excellent results in terms of transverse

roominess at shoulder height, in the front and rear, with values that are outstanding for segment C,

in all fields: from roominess to access, visibility and ease of use. This means being able to get in

and out of the car easily and comfortably, and finding yourself in a comfortable, protective

environment once you are seated.

The interior space in the Fiat Ritmo is the result of a good balance between the volumes of

the passenger compartment, even though, from the outside, the car is clearly compact and

dynamic. The parameters that define the posture, the position of the driving seat and of the

passenger seats in the many possible configurations, the overall roominess and the interior volume

have all been optimised. The end result puts the Ritmo firmly at the top of its class in this context.

For example, the combination of a driver’s seat that adjusts for height and a steering wheel that

adjusts for height and reach, produces excellent values of roominess as well as a perfect driving

position for drivers of all heights (from 1.50 to about 2 metres). Even if the driver himself is tall,

there is still room for an equally tall passenger to sit comfortably behind him; it is the only car in its

segment that can accommodate 184 cm tall passengers comfortably on the rear seat when those

in the front seat are in the 90 percentile, in other words 183 cm tall. And this does not detract from

the luggage capacity which is 400 litres in the normal configurations, and 1175 litres with the rear

seats folded down.

Driving is made particularly enjoyable by the position of the pedals, the steering wheel

alignment, the position of the armrest and footrest, the excellent manoeuvring of the gearshift and

the perfect visibility of the instrumentation and the main controls. This sensation of enjoyment is

heightened by the excellent profiling of the wrapround seats that support the body even in more

dynamic driving situations. And the adoption of the latest virtual ergonomic structuring techniques

on the Fiat Ritmo ensures that all the onboard instrumentation and primary controls are extremely

user-friendly; all the controls are within easy reach, perfectly visible and easy to use. The interior is

one of the most practical in its category, with a useful storage unit under the passenger seat,

pockets in the doors, a centre console with space for bottles, documents, maps and coins, storage

compartments on the facia for keys, eyeglasses and remote controls, and a large glove

compartment in front of the passenger.

A new logo for the Fiat brand

A new logo, which underlines the new strategy that has been implemented by the brand in

recent months, now debuts on the front of the new Ritmo, and will gradually be adopted on all Fiat

models. In this dynamic context, there has been a constant succession of new products (from the

Croma to the Grande Punto, the Panda, the Fiat Sedici and now the Ritmo), and a tangible sign

was needed to symbolise the turnaround that is driving Fiat towards new challenges.

Created jointly by RobilantAssociati (an agency specialising in Brand Advisors & Strategic

Design) and the Fiat Style Centre, the new symbol is derived from the famous shield that

decorated the front of Fiat cars from 1931 to 1968, with the vertically elongated letters of the word

'FIAT' standing out against a ruby red background, encased in a chromed round frame. It has a

three-dimensional effect which conveys an idea of technology, Italian design, dynamism and a

strong personality, while it also harks back to the round logo (white wording against a red

background, surrounded by laurel leaves) that identified powerful, high performance Fiat models

for many years.

The essential, strong new logo therefore conveys 'change in continuity', a sign of the past

re-read in a modern key which is particularly representative of Fiat today, a brand with its sights on

the challenges of the future but also proud of its historical identity. The two main elements of the

new logo (the shield shape and the red colour) immediately bring to mind the Fiat 524 of 1931,

which was the first to sport a rectangular logo that blended into the new grille, designed with

stylistic but also aerodynamic pretensions, in the shape of a shield with vertical elements.

The new Fiat logo sums up the mission of an Italian company that for over one hundred

years has been building cars with beautiful styling, that are accessible and capable of guaranteeing

a better quality of everyday life.

The Substance of an innovative,reliable, quality car

Sophisticated technologies forrecord-breaking development time

'A good product is always a well designed product'. This was the guideline that convinced

the Fiat Ritmo team to take advantage of the best design processes to develop the new car,

exploiting virtual methodologies because they could optimise both individual performances and

their trade-off in real time. The development of the Ritmo is an excellent example of this original

approach: only 18 months separated the moment that the product specifications were frozen from

the market launch. This is a record in the automotive world, and an important competitive

advantage, since being able to develop a car rapidly means responding better to market demands.

But to be not only fast, but rigorous and excellent too, requires cutting-edge technology and

extremely precise engineering processes. This rigour has been applied at all stages of the

development and industrialisation of the Ritmo, applying the most advanced, innovative reliability

methodologies. It was a winning project, which had three specific objectives: outstanding safety,

enjoyable driving and the best quality of life on board.

Engineering excellence that goes a long way back

To build a revolutionary engine, innovative systems and cars that are a success overall, a

manufacturer must employ cutting-edge technologies and methodologies that interpret the

customers’ wishes, to achieve a level of comfort and performance that set them apart from the

competition, low consumption and emissions in all conditions, and the highest levels of safety,

quality and reliability. Ambitious goals that have always placed the Fiat Group among the pioneers

in the application of virtual analysis to design. Even in the 1970s, the structural components of a

vehicle were verified by computerised calculation techniques, and early in the 1990s, the company

acquired one of the first 'super-calculators' for commercial uses (the famous Cray supercomputer),

only the third in Italy, when there were very few in Europe, generally used for scientific calculations

in universities or large research centres. And the company has always kept up with the latest

virtual technologies on the market, in many cases actually anticipating them thanks to the work of

its own Research Centres.

The Fiat Ritmo is the outcome of a winning development process

At Fiat Auto, the development process starts from stringent objectification of performance,

as seen by the customer first and foremost. This allows all objectives to be measured, so that the

development process can be organised in three main stages: target setting, target deployment and

target achieving. It is the latter that has been revolutionised by the introduction of virtual verification

cycles, which drastically cut development times and costs, increasing the team’s confidence in the

possibility of achieving its initial goals. Research in the field of simulation has focused on the

creation of mathematical models that can provide an increasingly exact estimate of the physical

parameters that are most representative of a vehicle’s performance.

We should point out that there has not only been an evolution in physical simulation

calculations. Take the huge graphic potential of the new IT tools, which make it possible to

visualise physical objects with the utmost realism. From the evaluation of the styling to verification

of layouts and access to components, virtualisation of the assembly line and immersive verification

of physical and cognitive ergonomics: all the systems on the vehicle and the plant necessary to

produce it can be 'seen' by specialists exactly as they are in reality, immediately after they have

been drawn by the designer.

That is not all. The development process is backed up by powerful planning, checking,

technical data filing and monitoring systems. The integration and close connection between the

system that established a single BoM for engineering and manufacturing, known as CAD/CAE

PDM, the archive of standards and the unified system of product objectives and the authorisations,

both physical and virtual, that constitute a 'backbone' for the management of information that is

practically unique in the automotive world. These systems are constantly updated in real time and

available both to suppliers and, obviously, to all the Fiat Auto design centres all over the world.

But we must not forget that to achieve a quality product like the Fiat Ritmo, state-of-the-art

CAE methodologies must be adopted at all stages of its development. To do this, the company has

relied on the collaboration of its best suppliers, and has created its own model which programmes

all the stages organically: from the initial scenario, through the strategic configuration, innovation,

standardisation and analysis of the initiative, right down to final technical and technological

development, the integration of suppliers, final quality verification and manufacturing build-up.

From styling to 'perceived quality': how the entire process is organised

As soon as the styling starts to take on a possible configuration, the feasibility of the

individual parts is verified virtually, and the aerodynamic behaviour of the shapes of the vehicle are

assessed; then preliminary ergonomic checks are performed on the first styling proposals. In the

meantime, the styling and the virtual checks consolidate the choice of the definitive model,

triggering the real design process. The skeleton takes shape, and work can begin on the shape of

the bodyshell. Today, Fiat Auto’s CAD designers are in a position, when necessary, to perform the

first static verification on the most crucial CAD parts using calculation tools that are totally

incorporated into their CAD environment, simply and rapidly. The most detailed, complex

calculations are performed by specialists, but even their work has been simplified, because they

have direct access to CAD mathematical calculations through the company database which

includes the drawings of all our models.

The DMU, the digital mock-up of the assembly of all vehicle components, is integrated into

the database, which makes it possible to verify their layout, ease of assembly and access for

service, even using totally immersive virtual reality techniques. As soon as the 'body in white' has

been completed designers receive immediate feedback from the ergonomists, who verify the

visibility zones and reflections by calculation, to correct the design of the space, the interior

systems (seats, facia, etc.), the primary and secondary controls, the mobile parts and the

communications interfaces. At the same time, the first vehicle dynamic calculations begin, as does

verification of the mechanical components. Specific simulation models have been developed in the

field of Handling and Ride Comfort, that include all the controlled active systems that are present

today, from ABS to stability control.

The bearing structure of the early stages of technical development is based on milestones

of the CAD drawings present in the database. The virtual structural verification of the safety, rigidity

and fatigue resistance aspects gets underway from a very clear level of maturity. In the safety field,

Fiat Auto applies the latest methodologies to simulate the effects of impact on the structure, on the

human body and on pedestrians, including simulation of the activation and control of the active

restraint systems. These include crash and biomechanical methodologies, to ensure that the

passenger compartment cell protects occupants and that the front of the vehicle is compatible with

vulnerable subjects (pedestrians, cyclists, etc.), respecting current and future legislation. This

means that it is possible to verify the objectives set by the initial project much earlier using virtual

methods than would be possible with real simulation, using prototypes.

All the other performance parameters are approached in a similar manner: fatigue,

acoustics, climate, performance and consumption. For example, CAE methodologies have been

applied throughout the development of the chassis, with particular reference to the performance

targets for both fatigue resistance and NVH (Noise-Vibration-Harshness) quality. First of all, the

fatigue resistance of the chassis was developed and approved by calculation, using FEM methods

to virtually simulate typical missions that generate fatigue, a system already in use for bench

testing. Good consistency has been achieved between the calculation and the experimentation,

thanks above all to the integration of multi-body calculation methodologies (dynamic simulation of

the vehicle during its mission) and FEM calculation methodologies (structural calculation of stress

and fatigue damage).

Even the smallest details linked to quality are carefully analysed and calculated. Design of

Experiments techniques are used to explore all the possible cases related to manufacturing

variables (geometries, material characteristics, coupling, etc.) in order to ascertain that there is no

anomalous behaviour (bangs, squeaks, creaks, etc). Virtual approval activities related to steering-

wheel vibration (crossbeam and column), engine noise (structural measures at the anchorage

points) and advancement noise (suspension blocks and bushes) are all part of this process.

The end result of the entire development process is the Fiat Ritmo, a top quality car that is

absolutely innovative, created in record time, and the fruit of expertise that is unique in the

automotive world.

A project that refutes two myths regarding virtual verification

Until now, it was widely thought that virtual verification could not completely replace the

tests on physical prototypes used to reach the final approval of a project. At most, people

recognised that virtual verification eliminated a few experimental cycles on the first mock-ups,

which were known to be of little significance, and that they could be useful during fine-tuning and

problem solving. Which is why, even with significant disadvantages (slowness, high costs, need for

test tracks and laboratories), physical prototypes continue to be used, even when they were

obsolete with respect to the stage of development of the project. This was certainly the case at

Fiat. Until the Ritmo.

But now a new approach to design was needed, to cut time and costs, while respecting the

demands of an innovative, top quality project like that of the Ritmo. So, taking into consideration

the increase in hardware performance which has stimulated the growth of increasingly

sophisticated calculation applications, the team used the latest resources in this field, drawing on

the expertise gained in this field by Fiat Auto in years of experience, also verified outside the

automotive field. The Ritmo was the first car to be developed adopting exclusively virtual

verification systems.

Another myth was that virtual verification could at most replace the corresponding physical

experiments; in actual fact there is more to it than that. Virtualisation of the vehicle creates a

practically infinite number of prototypes which can be subjected to a practically unlimited number of

tests. This also makes it possible to apply the most advanced statistical methodologies in the field

of optimisation and 'robust design'. It means that Fiat Ritmo has been subjected, virtually, to many

more tests than would have been possible using traditional methods and physical prototypes; plus

the fact that with these tests it is possible to measure a quantity of information that cannot normally

be managed by classic experimental measurements. In practice, the construction of the

mathematical models and their interactive use, allows the Fiat Auto engineers to acquire much

more detailed understanding of the vehicle than in the past, and to explore its behaviour in the

tiniest detail. The project is therefore 'optimised' (i.e. with greater quality, obtained with less trouble

and cost) as well as 'robust' (the end product will be more insensitive to the inevitable

manufacturing deviance and changes over the years of its use by the customer).

Class-beating safety

Fifteen thousand hours of calculation, 60 crash tests, one hundred and fifty simulation

cycles with a HyGe sled, and one hundred tests on components and subsystems. These figures

underline the company’s commitment to making the Ritmo one of the safest cars around, not only

in its segment but on the entire car market, because the model is state-of-the-art where passive

safety systems are concerned.

Total protection, in other words, which starts with the devices that are dedicated specifically

to safety: as many as 7 airbags, three-point seat-belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, five

head-restraints and the FPS fire prevention device. Then the new chassis, which was designed to

absorb any impact very effectively. And finally, the contribution made to the protection of occupants

by the bodywork, the bonnet, doors and facia crossbeam. Nor can we overlook the contribution

made to passive safety by other elements such as the seats or the steering column, which were

designed taking their behaviour in an accident into consideration.

The Air-Bag Smart 2 system

Complete protection, intelligent protection. In a head-on impact, occupants are protected by

an innovative restraint system known as 'Air-Bag Smart 2', because it automatically adapts the

activation parameters to the severity of the accident. Starting from the driver’s front airbag, which

adopts a different logic from conventional airbags. Until now, when the airbags were activated, they

inflated simultaneously up to their maximum limit, which was established to safeguard occupants

during severe impacts. The Fiat Ritmo, on the other hand, adopts a driver’s front airbag with dual-

stage activation; this means that the system only activates the first of the two stages when the

impact is of moderate strength, but activates both in the event of a more serious collision. The two

stages can also be activated with different sequences depending on the type of impact. In any

case, the bridles inside the bags guarantee that the maximum dimensions and the shape taken by

the cushions are as non-invasive as possible for passengers. The front passenger airbag can

obviously be de-activated (using the menu on the control panel), to carry a child in a safety seat

facing backwards on the front seat (the pre-tensioner on the other hand remains active).

The sensors of the 'Air-Bag Smart 2' system also control the activation of the seat-belt pre-

tensioners. The Ritmo is fitted with front seat-belts that are each complete with an inertia reel, pre-

tensioner and load limiter. On impact, the electronically controlled pyrotechnic pre-tensioner

retracts the belt in a few milliseconds, so that it adheres perfectly to the body. The load limiters are

positioned inside the inertia reels, and they yield in a controlled manner, metering the force

exercised by the belt on the shoulder of the person wearing it. And finally, the front protection

system of the Ritmo offers the option of an airbag under the steering column, to render this area,

traditionally the most dangerous for the knees, inoffensive.

The control unit and the sensors

The Fiat Ritmo is fitted with all the most advanced passive safety devices available today. A

sophisticated 'nervous system' has been developed to manage them, governed by an electronic

control unit in the front tunnel. This system receives the signals from the various sensors

positioned around the car (in addition to those inside the system itself), and on the basis of these

signals decides how many and which devices to activate. This is why the system behaves in an

'intelligent' manner. It is not activated when, in spite of an impact, there is no danger that an

occupant will collide with the surfaces of the car. It recognises stress that does not derive from a

collision, and continues to function even if there is an electrical blackout. This is all made possible

by particularly sophisticated functioning logics and detection terminals. Such as the CSA (Crash

Severity Algorithm), which recognises the severity of an impact and controls the front airbags, or

the sensor that detects the presence of a passenger, and can warn the occupant to fasten his seat-

belt, by a beeper or a telltale on the instrument panel. Or the ECS (Early Crash Sensor), the

decentralised sensor that measures head-on impact, an additional device positioned in the front of

the car, that enables the control unit to anticipate the activation of the front airbags; this allows the

airbag to be completely inflated before the occupant has even begun to move forward towards the

steering wheel or facia, unlike a conventional system.

Curtain-bags and sidebags

The former are airbags that descend down the windows to protect occupants’ heads in the

event of a side-on collision. The curtain-bags adopted on the Ritmo are more protective than other

systems (because they always take up the correct position), faster to inflate and less invasive for

passengers. They open from the top down and there is no risk of their causing secondary injury to

the occupants’ arms with their movement.

They also effectively protect the heads of both front and rear passengers, because they

extend the whole length of the side windows, protecting occupants even if the car overturns. The

two bags (one on each side) are positioned under the longitudinals of the roof, folded inside a

closed compartment. At the appropriate moment, the cover bends to allow the bags to inflate and

to descend.

And finally, to protect the pelvis and chest of passengers even if they hit the sides of the

car, the Fiat Ritmo also fits sidebags inside the seat squabs, where they protect the occupants

best, regardless of the latter’s stature or position, or how the seat is regulated.

More stringent tests for total protection

The experts at the Fiat Safety Centre at Orbassano (outside Turin) subjected the Fiat Ritmo

to all possible types of high speed collisions in order to verify the effectiveness of the integrated

protection system developed for the new model on the spot. They then analysed the results on the

basis of the structural and biomechanical parameters envisaged by some of the world’s most

stringent legislation. The following results were obtained.

Head-on impact

The Fiat Ritmo achieved excellent results in two different types of tests. The first was

performed at a speed of 64 km/h against a deforming barrier which simulates a head-on impact

between two cars; the second envisages a crash at 56 km/h against a fixed, rigid barrier. Thanks to

the robust structural architecture and the use of highly energy-absorbing materials, the intrusion

levels measured on the Ritmo during these tests were very low and allowed all the doors to open,

without generating significant inertia stress on occupants, because this was efficiently absorbed by

the Smart Air-Bag system. And finally, in the case of head-on impact, the items carried in the

Ritmo’s luggage compartment do not hit passengers.

Side-on impact

Two tests recognised internationally bear witness to the new model’s ability to guarantee

the safety of front and rear passengers, even in the event of a high speed side-on collision. The

first is 'Impact against a deforming barrier'; the Ritmo reacts superbly to this test, which simulates a

collision at 50 km/h between two vehicles at a 90° angle, thanks to the protection offered to the

pelvic area by the robust bodyshell structure, to the abdomen and chest by the combined action of

the sidebags and door panels, and to the head by the curtain-bags. The second test is 'Side-on

impact against a pole', one of the most dangerous for motorists.

Rear impact

During rear impact tests, attention is focused, in structural terms, on containing the

deformation of the passenger compartment and on preventing any damage to the fuel tank, which

could cause a fire. What is more, from a bio-mechanical viewpoint, efforts are concentrated on

guaranteeing that the seats support the occupant well without collapsing, and on minimising any

injury, particularly to the neck and head, which are usually the most vulnerable parts of the body.

Protection of pedestrians

The styling of the front part of the Fiat Ritmo was developed bearing the protection of

pedestrians in mind. The volumes are smooth and rounded, and there are no sharp edges that

could injure pedestrians. The large surface of the bonnet minimises the risk that a pedestrian’s

could hit the front uprights. The sturdiest components in the engine bay are positioned at a suitable

distance from the bonnet, to allow the 'skin' of the bonnet to absorb the energy deriving from

impact with a pedestrian’s head.

Protection of children

The new model also features all the devices that guarantee absolute safety for children

travelling in the car. The most important, and most effective, of these are the Isofix attachments on

the rear seats, and the de-activation of the front passenger airbag by the onboard computer.

Protection against fire

From the bodyshell down to the smallest component, the Fiat Ritmo was designed and built

to meet Fiat’s latest, and strictest, internal fire prevention standards. For example, the Fire

Prevention System which instantly cuts off the electric pump on petrol-engined cars and the fuel

supply solenoid on diesel models, in the event of serious impacts. The switch is positioned under

the lining of the right front door pillar, while the plastic fuel tank, which already meets future

legislative requirements, is positioned where it is protected in a collision, and built to resist

deformation with no loss of fuel.

Active safety

The Fiat Ritmo adopts the most sophisticated electronic systems to control the vehicle’s

dynamic behaviour, which are implemented to raise the dynamic limits even higher, so that they

enhance safety but are not intrusive for the driver. The intervention of these devices is the result of

simulation and specific tests on the test track, to ensure that they do not detract from the pleasure

of driving. A description of the lavish equipment follows.

Braking system and large tyres

In line with its high active safety targets, the Fiat Ritmo is equipped with extremely efficient,

highly adaptable braking systems. To start with, the braking system is hydraulic, with servo assist,

and features 2 cross-over independent circuits (each circuit acts on one front wheel and the

opposite rear wheel) to guarantee braking and stability even if one circuit should fail. All the

versions in the range are fitted with ventilated disc brakes at the front, and with solid discs on the

rear wheels, which vary with the engine, to reflect the different weight and power. For example, for

the 1.4 16 valve engine, ventilated discs with a diameter of 257 x 22 mm are fitted, and rear discs

with a diameter of 251 x 10 mm. The version powered by the 120 bhp 1.9 Multijet adopts 284 x 22

mm ventilated discs and solid discs of 251 x 10 mm. And finally, the 150 bhp 1.9 Multijet engine fits

281 x 26 mm ventilated discs and solid discs of 251 x 10 mm.

To achieve the best compromise between handling and comfort, the Fiat Ritmo fits large

tyres that optimise the car’s performance, particularly in terms of roadholding, safety and comfort

on the road. The tyres chosen (depending on the outfit) are: 205/55 R16, 225/45 R17 and 225/40

R18.

ABS complete with EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution)

In addition to its excellent braking system, the Ritmo is also equipped with one of the most

advanced ABS anti-lock braking systems on the market. It includes a hydraulic control unit with 8

solenoids, 4 active sensors and 4 channels with EBD electronic brake force distribution. The latter

distributes the braking force over the four wheels to prevent them from locking, guaranteeing

complete control of the car in all conditions. The system also adapts automatically to the grip

conditions of the wheels and the efficiency of the brake pads, preventing the latter from

overheating.

ESP (Electronic Stability Program)

The sophisticated ESP system cuts in when conditions are close to the limit, when the car’s

stability is at risk, to help the driver to control the vehicle. To do so, ESP constantly verifies how the

tyres grip the ground, longitudinally and laterally, and if the car does skid, it cuts in to recover the

trajectory and the stability of the set-up. It incorporates sensors that measure the vehicle’s rotation

around its vertical axis (yaw speed), the lateral acceleration and the steering angle set by the driver

(which indicates his chosen direction). It then compares these data with the parameters processed

by a computer and uses a complex mathematical model to establish whether the car is taking a

bend within grip limits, or whether the front or rear are about to veer (understeer or oversteer). To

bring it back to the correct trajectory, the system generates a yaw moment opposite to the one that

caused the instability, singly braking the appropriate wheel (nearside or offside), and reducing

engine power by adjusting the throttle valve. This is where the system developed for the Fiat Ritmo

differs from other systems. Its intervention on the brakes is modulated to be as gentle as possible

(therefore without disturbing driving), and the reduction in engine power is limited, to guarantee

excellent performance and enjoyable driving at all times. ESP is always engaged.

Hill Holder - HBA

The Hill Holder, which is an integral part of the ESP system, helps the driver during hill

starts. It cuts in when the ESP control unit perceives a difference in the inclination of the car

through a longitudinal acceleration sensor. During a hill start, the control unit prepares to cut in

when first speed is engaged and the brake and clutch pedals are depressed. The pressure on the

front brake callipers is maintained for about 1.5 seconds after the driver removes his foot from the

brake pedal, allowing him to set off without difficulty. The Hill Holder is not activated when the car

is started downhill in first gear. The same occurs when reverse is engaged: the system is activated

for downhill starts, and it is not activated for uphill starts.

And finally, there is the option of HBA, electro-hydraulic brake assistance, which

automatically increases the pressure on the braking circuit during panic braking.

ASR (Anti Slip Regulation)

Another integral element of the ESP system is the ASR (Anti Slip Regulation) system,

which optimises traction at all speeds, using the brakes and engine management.

Based on the number of wheel revs calculated by the ABS sensors, the device calculates

the degree of slipping and activates two different control systems to recover grip. When an

excessive demand for power causes both drive wheels to slip (for example when aquaplaning or

accelerating on an uneven, snow-covered or icy road surface), the system reduces engine torque

by decreasing the throttle valve aperture and thus the air flow. If only one wheel slips (for example

the wheel inside a bend following acceleration or dynamic changes to the load), this is

automatically braked without the driver having to press the brake pedal. This obtains an effect

similar to that of a self-locking differential, enabling the Ritmo to tackle road surfaces with poor grip

without difficulty.

ASR is engaged automatically every time the engine is started, but can be excluded by a

switch on the centre console. It is only necessary to de-activate ASR when fitting snow chains,

because in order to transmit torque to the ground, the wheel has to be able to 'pile up' snow with

small slips that the ASR system tends to avoid.

MSR (Motor Schleppmoment Regelung)

This device, also an integral part of the ASR system, cuts in when there is a sudden change

of gear when changing down, to return torque to the engine and prevent excessive dragging of the

drive wheels, which could cause the car to lose stability when grip is poor.

Engines and gearboxes:extremely enjoyable to drive

Behind its distinctive styling, the Fiat Ritmo offers a comprehensive range of excellent

engines that feature state-of-the-art engineering and generous performance. The range comprises

two Multijet turbodiesel engines (1.9 8v delivering 120 and 1.9 16v delivering 150 bhp) and three

petrol engines: a 90 bhp 1.4 16v, and two 1.4 16v turbocharged engines from the new T-JET

family, delivering 120 and 150 bhp (which will be available after the launch). Each engine offers

different advantages, all of which are exploited in full by being combined with 5 or 6-speed

gearboxes, and they stand out for their generosity, their sparkling temperament or their outstanding

performance and sophisticated technology. But all the engines are extremely reliable and

environment-friendly.

All the engines mounted on the Ritmo are manufactured by Fiat Powertrain Technologies,

the Group’s new sector. FPT draws together all the activities in the fields of innovation, research,

design and manufacture related to engines and gearboxes for all types of applications: from cars to

commercial vehicles, boats and agricultural machinery. With approximately 19,000 employees, 17

plants and 10 research centres in eight different countries, the Sector is one of the world’s most

important organisations in its field. At FPT, approximately 3000 highly specialised technicians

focus on the development and engineering of innovative technologies. More than 40 patents are

filed each year, confirming the quality and seriousness of this commitment, and making Fiat a huge

center of technological excellence and constant innovation.

Powerful, smooth engines

The new T-JET familyA new family of turbocharged petrol engines, known as the T-JET, will make its debut on

the Ritmo soon after the launch, featuring outstanding performance, prompt response to the

accelerator, low consumption, constructional simplicity, sturdiness and reliability. The new 1.4 16v

turbo engine will be available in two versions: the first is more sporty, delivering a maximum of 110

kW (150 bhp) at 5500 rpm, while the second is more of a 'tourer', and delivers 90 kW (120 bhp) at

5000 rpm. Both offer a peak torque of 206 Nm (at 2000 rpm on the 110 kW, and at 1750 rpm on

the 90 kW), but 230 Nm (at 3000 rpm on the 110 kW) is available, simply by pressing a key on the

facia (the SPORT 150 bhp version). The engine is very elastic, requiring fewer gear changes, for

an enjoyable, relaxed driving style, but it will respond assertively if the driver puts his foot down.

This is one effect of the low inertia of the turboblower, which makes it possible to obtain top

performance by acting on the accelerator, with none of the annoying delays typical of this type of

engine. The result is outstanding sportiness combined with fuel economy.

The outstanding reliability of the engines is guaranteed by the hundreds of thousands of

kilometres driven by prototypes during the development stage, in addition to thousands of hours of

static and dynamic tests on the bench. The first maintenance is programmed after 30,000 km, and

there is no need for any intermediate servicing. The oil/water heat exchange guarantees these

results. The oil filter is of the environment-friendly type.

The computerised engine control system manages all functions using sophisticated

calculation algorithms. The accelerator control is of the 'drive-by-wire' type, without mechanical

connections, so that the driver can obtain the relaxed or sporty response he wants from the engine,

without wasting energy.

These excellent results have been obtained by painstaking design and development of all

the engine components, demanding over 120,000 hours of activity. State-of-the-art computer-

assisted design and calculation systems were used, making it possible to simulate the greatest

stress caused by the turboblower. All the major components have been re-designed, so that we

could describe the engine as completely new. Particular attention was paid to fluid dynamics and

combustion, to minimise energy losses and to obtain top performance and low consumption, and

the results were guaranteed by sophisticated experimental analysis.

The 90 bhp Fire 1.4 16v engine

This engine is a member of the Fire family, and it has a capacity of 1368 cc, and 4 cylinders

in line with a bore of 72 mm and stroke of 84 mm. There are four valves per cylinder, activated

directly by 2 overhead camshafts. The engine was developed paying particular attention to

performance and to fuel economy, two areas in which the Fiat Ritmo leads its class. The merit

goes to the volumetric efficiency which has been optimised all through the operating range, thanks

to a specific fluid-dynamic development of the entire intake system and the timing. The engine

delivers 90 bhp (66 kW at 5500 rpm) and peak torque of 128 Nm (13 kgm at 4500 rpm). With this

engine, the Ritmo has a top speed of 179 km/h, and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.5

seconds. Sparkling performance, in spite of low consumption: 8.7 l/100 km in the urban cycle, 5.6

l/100 km out of town and 6.7 l/100 km in the combined cycle.

A sparkling engine that is sparing on fuel. This has been achieved thanks to the adoption of

a throttle valve control system known as 'drive by wire'. The 90 bhp 1.4 engine also adopts a new,

'torque-based' engine control unit, which is the state of the art in this field. Its most interesting

feature is that it activates all devices through a single coordinator block, whose basic parameter is

the torque demanded by the driver when he puts his foot on the accelerator. Translated into a

physical torque value, the various demands (including those of the external systems such as ABS)

can be coordinated even before the main engine control parameters have been converted

(advance, throttle valve position, injection time, etc.) with the enormous advantage of being able to

generate them with great precision and in a very short time. This system exploits a single

communications standard between the various systems and functions, whose common 'language'

is the engine torque. This makes for a level of driveability superior to that available from current

systems, while also reducing polluting emissions.

Other features peculiar to the new 90 bhp 1.4 16v Fire are the optimisation of the

compression ratio and the high torque values at low speeds, characteristics that make it possible to

limit fuel consumption. This target has also been reached thanks to the calibration of the latest

generation engine control unit, which keeps fuel consumption very low, compatible with the

requirements of driveability, performance and emissions. A catalytic converter positioned in the

engine bay (and welded to the exhaust manifold flange using a new technology) reaches very high

temperatures very fast, thus reducing emissions even while the engine is warming up. To minimise

the environmental impact, the engine also incorporates a returnless fuel supply system, which

eliminates fuel recirculation within the tank, thus reducing vapour formation.

High performance, sparing on fuel and clean: to these winning features the 90 bhp 1.4 16v

Fire engine also adds excellent acoustic comfort.

The 120 bhp and 150 bhp 1.9 Multijet

Both have 4 cylinders in line, with two valves per cylinder and four valves per cylinder

respectively, a bore of 82 mm and stroke of 90.4 mm; the first delivers 120 bhp (88 kW) at 4000

rpm and torque of 255 Nm at 2000 rpm, while the second delivers 150 bhp (110 kW) at 4000 rpm

and torque of 305 Nm at 2000 rpm. Several changes have been made to the engineering of the

two engines to boost performance and engine torque at low speeds, and to reduce noise and

vibration. For example, the 'Common Rail' system envisages two strategies for automatic control of

the calibration and balancing of the injected diesel fuel, improving acoustic and vibrational comfort.

Turbocharging is entrusted to a Garrett VGT 17 turbo, with electronic management of the

variable geometry, which improves power delivery while guaranteeing very high torque values

even at low engine speeds. For example, 90% of peak torque is available between 1750 and 3250

rpm. This translates into extremely enjoyable driving and excellent performance. The Fiat Ritmo

equipped with the 120 bhp 1.9 Multijet engine has a top speed of 194 km/h and accelerates from 0

to 100 km/h in 10.5 seconds (with the 150 bhp 1.9 Multijet the top speed is 209 km/h, and 0-100

km/h acceleration takes 9 seconds). Brilliant performance in other words, but fuel consumption

remains low: 6.9 l/100 km in the urban cycle, 4.3 l/100 km out of town and 5.3 l/100 km in the

combined cycle for the 120 bhp Multijet, while the 150 bhp version returns 7.6 l/100 km for the

urban cycle, 4.5 l/100 km out of town and 5.6 l/100 km in the mixed cycle. We should also

underline that the 120 bhp 1.9 Multijet achieves an excellent 139 g/km where emissions are

concerned.

The second generation turbodiesel engines are still based on the principles of the 'Common

Rail'; i.e. high injection pressure and electronic injector control. But the new generation engines

have an additional feature: during each engine cycle, the number of injections has been increased

from the two that are common today. The same amount of diesel fuel is burned inside the cylinder,

but it is burned in portions, producing smoother combustion. The advantages include quieter

operation, lower emissions and a 6-7% boost in performance accompanied by engine efficiency

that makes the car even easier to drive.

These results are significant, because they have been achieved on an engine which

represents an incredible leap forward compared to pre-combustion diesels, and even improves on

first generation JTDs.

The secret of the Multijet lies both in the control unit that governs the electric injector

opening and closing system and the injectors themselves. The crucial element is the electronic

control unit itself, which performs a series of extremely close injections.

The components (and the injectors) were developed by Fiat’s researchers to do just that; it

delivers the multiple injections that guarantee more precise control of the pressures and

temperatures generated in the combustion chamber, as well as exploiting the air taken into the

cylinders more efficiently. This achieves other goals: lower combustion noise, reduced emissions

and boosted performance.

The development of the Multijet system is the outcome of years of research. Initially, the

technicians solved the problem of the limits posed by the control units. They then drew a map of

the benefits obtained by plotting different multiple injection sequences (two secondary injections

very close to the main injection, one secondary not too close to the main injection plus two other

close secondaries; one secondary, followed, at a certain interval, by two closely-spaced main

injections, etc.) with the various operating ranges of the engine: idling, with low loads and low rev

speed; with high revs and a moderate load; with low revs and a high load, and so on.

This analysis revealed the potential of the system, and showed that great benefits are

achievable at all times, though they tend to focus on one field or another, depending on the type of

sequence chosen and the engine service range targeted. In some cases, the priority is to reduce

starting times and fume levels, in others, it is to increase torque and reduce noise, in others still, it

is to reduce emissions and noise levels. Today this research has resulted in the development of

the Multijet engines.

The two Multijet units are friendly to the environment, incorporating an electronic EGR

system which cools the recirculating exhaust gases, and a 'close-coupled' catalytic converter, as

well as a particulate trap (DPF), a 'for life' system that abates fine dust and is regenerated without

additives. In other words, a long list of improvements and measures to produce a reliable, powerful

engine that is sparing on fuel.

All the versions have the hydraulic coaxial clutch release mechanism (CSC) developed for

the 1.9 Multijet engine. This device, which does not have external actuators, guarantees greater

efficiency of the system during the life of the car and also makes it possible to isolate the noise and

vibration produced by the engine. Unlike a hose control, this hydraulic system provides for self-

regulation of the worn pedal. The system is also combined with a device that recovers friction plate

wear, which maintains the load of the clutch pedal constant throughout the life of the vehicle. The

optimisation of the components and the use of innovative materials (plastic, aluminium) has made

it possible to reduce the weight by more than 2 kg compared to a conventional hydraulic control.

And last but not least, in line with European directives to protect the environment, only

environment-friendly friction materials have been used on all versions, whether petrol or diesel.

Finally, the friction pump body is made of plastic, which also reduces the weight, with a

steel cylinder and a plastic piston. The material for the piston and the rubber sealing rings have

been developed specifically to operate with long strokes, while the seal created by the contact

between rubber and steel is a great improvement on conventional friction pumps which have a cast

iron sealing surface.

Reliable, sophisticated gearboxes

An innovative model like the Fiat Ritmo had to be on the cutting edge where gearboxes are

concerned, because this component has a decisive influence on driving enjoyment and comfort.

The new car offers a choice of two, with two specific variants depending on the engine.

These are the available combinations:

with 6 speeds on the 90 bhp petrol-driven 1.4 16v (C514);

with 5 speeds on the 1.9 Multijet 8v (C530);

with 6 speeds on the 1.9 Multijet 16v (C530).

All the gearboxes share the same dual hose external drive, which guarantees precise

manoeuvring, quiet operation and does not transmits mechanical vibration through the control. This

is a new generation external control, technologically advanced thanks to the extensive adoption of

high performance technopolymers, which are used on the basis of different characteristics of

resistance, weight and self-lubricating power.

Bench testing in extreme climate conditions guided the fine-tuning of the materials,

couplings and processes, and guarantees the 'robustness' and reliability of the product.

In addition to which, the new drive was designed to guarantee system characteristics,

excellent comfort and manoeuvring. A new distribution of the inertia masses was adopted,

significantly closer to the gearbox, to raise the level of comfort by increased mechanical filtering.

And huge attention is paid during the assembly of these components to guarantee their

quality and reliability, with pre-testing of every component and electronic measurement of all the

values that define efficiency, elasticity and 'tolerance'.

The 6 speed gearbox for the 90 bhp 1.4 16v

Enhanced acoustic comfort, reduced engagement effort even when cold and more precise

gear engagement. These are the advantages that the motorist can expect from the C514 gearbox

(transverse configuration with two cascade shafts and differential) on which various improvements

were made to the gear train, synchronisers, lubrication, internal gear control and clutch control,

before being used on the Fiat Ritmo.

The gearbox is available with six speeds for the 90 bhp 1.4 petrol engine, and adopts a

gear control which prevents the involuntary engagement of reverse, thanks to a stroke limiter in the

selector, and guarantees more precise engagement of fifth and sixth. With this configuration, the

gearbox can transmit up to 128 Nm (13 kgm) at 4500 rpm. The technical characteristics worth

highlighting include the gearing housing and clutch housing, both of which have been optimised to

reduce weight and to absorb more noise, using FEM (Finite Element Method) calculation

techniques. But also Borg-Warner free-ring synchronisation on all speeds. And finally, for first and

second, the speeds most used by any motorist, dual cone synchronisers have been fitted, requiring

40% less engagement effort than the conventional single-cone type.

The internal gear control system offers four levels of selection, with a central positioner fitted

with bearings. Lubrication is dynamic, and the oil flows are channelled through bore holes in the

boxes. The advantages include reduced wear, more efficient torque transmission and better

manoeuvring at low temperatures.

The 5-speed gearbox for the 120 bhp 1.9 Multijet

(6 speeds for the 150 bhp)

This gearbox is available for the two 1.9 Multijet engines (with 5 speeds for the 120 bhp

version and 6 speeds for the 150 bhp version). It stands out for its configuration – 'two shafts in a

cascade with a differential', and for its excellent manoeuvring and quiet operation. Synchronisation

of all forward speeds is of the Borg-Warner free-ring type, and even reverse is synchronised. What

is more, on first and second, the synchroniser is of the triple cone type, while the synchroniser on

third, fourth, fifth and sixth is of the single-tone type.

The gearshift incorporates a syringe device on the lever knob that prevents involuntary

engagement of reverse, and the gear control is activated by a double Bowden metal cable system

with an anti-noise device.

Peak torque of 255 Nm (26 kgm) is already available at 2000 rpm on the 120 bhp 1.9

Multijet version, and 305 Nm (31 kgm) on the 150 bhp 1.9 Multijet engine.

And finally, clutch control is hydraulic, incorporated into the gearbox with a CSC device so

that it requires less effort to activate, while lubrication is dynamic, guaranteeing less wear, and

highly efficient torque transmission and manoeuvrability even at low temperatures.

Suspension that guarantees excellent handling and comfort

One of the goals set by the designers who developed the Ritmo was to create a suspension

system that would offer performance comparable with that of a higher class of car. Devices that

guaranteed easy, pinpoint steering, excellent roadholding and the best comfort possible for

passengers. The choice went to two systems that emerged from a project by Magneti Marelli and

had already been used on other Fiat models, suitably modified and updated.

Compared to the system adopted on the previous segment C Fiat model, a total review of

the geometries brought the following changes:

Tracks widened by 20 mm and larger tyres (in addition to the consolidated 205/55R16, the

Ritmo is now available with 225/45 tyres on 17” wheels, and 225/40 tyres on 18” wheels).

Modified suspension geometry, adoption of a new front anti-roll bar and a new tuning of the

springs and shock absorbers suitable for the new bodyshell, with the best torsional rigidity

in the segment, new oversized right-angled lower links designed to separate the effect of

the braking loads from the cornering loads to guarantee the best balance in all driving

conditions. In addition to which, in spite of the wider track, the front geometry design

combined with the stroke of the steering boxes also made it possible to contain the car’s

turning circle: 10.5 m between kerbs and 11 m between walls (values that are the best in

the segment).

Rear suspension with interconnected semi-independent wheels and a torsion axle created

with a new stiffer anti-roll bar to increase structural rigidity and to maintain good suspension

flexibility under load, thanks to a reinforced hydraulic bushing to connect the rear axle to the

bodyshell. The suspension design also resulted in new springs, dampers and buffers, in

order to adapt to the bodyshell and to improve the dynamic response on corners.

Particular attention went into the design of the components that could affect comfort in the

car, adopting solutions typical of higher segment cars, such as a 'dual-path' strut mount at

the front and a vertical shock absorber at the rear. These measures made it possible to limit

the effect of the vibration generated by the road surface, without altering the structural

rigidity or detracting from steering precision.

To increase stability on corners, the new car adopts dampers with a 22 mm shaft on the

Multijet versions (20 mm on the 1.4 petrol engined versions) and a stiffened reinforced

hollow bar that also reduces the weight.

Increase in the structural rigidity of the front suspension anchorage crossbeam to improve

acoustic and vibrational comfort and to improve handling.

And finally, the track of the front and rear suspension was widened, both to adapt it to the

larger exterior measurements of the new model and to improve driving stability.

Front

The Fiat Ritmo adopts an independent layout in which the shock absorbers and springs act

as both damping and elastic elements and as structural and kinematic elements. The main

components of this layout are the twin-shell wishbones made of pressed sheet metal and not cast

iron, which means a significant weight reduction. The new model also introduces some extremely

interesting solutions:

Front suspension crossbeam with great structural rigidity, with a transverse connecting

'strap' close to the front strut attachments.

'Dual-path' strut blocks to improve filtering of road vibration, while guaranteeing excellent

structural rigidity, and enhancing steering precision.

Stiffened anti-roll bar to limit vehicle rolling, with shock absorber anchorage rods which

boost the stabilising efficiency and improve the promptness of the dynamic response when

cornering.

New stiffer coil springs made with the 'side-load' technique that optimise the thrust axis so

as to reduce the tangential forces on the damper shaft and therefore the internal friction

(system hysteresis), which improves absorption of minor road roughness.

To raise lateral rigidity and improve handling on corners, the new model fits dual-rate

telescopic dampers with a shaft diameter of 22 mm on the Multijet versions and of 20 mm

on versions with the 1.4 petrol engine.

And finally, bodyshell stiffening has been increased and the upper anchorage to the

bodyshell has been redesigned, increasing the rigidity and the caster angle, which in turn

enhances steering precision and comfort.

Rear

The Fiat Ritmo fits an optimised semi-independent system with interconnected wheels and

a torsion axle. The new hollow anti-roll bar has been made 40% stiffer in order to achieve a 40%

anti-roll stabilising effect, improving steering precision and roadholding. The soundproofing of the

vertical dampers, which are attached to the bodyshell in the wheelarches, has been improved, to

filter road roughness better, enhancing acoustic comfort in the passenger compartment.

And finally, the structure of the rear axle comprises lateral arms pressed in two semi-shells,

which are welded to a lateral torsion profile, and the new anti-roll bar that passes inside the

crossbeam and is welded to the struts. The rear axle attachment bushings are hydraulic to

guarantee better longitudinal absorption and comfort than the rubber-metal type, with improved

shoulders and reinforcement.

The quality of life on board

Motorists have come to expect not only an enjoyable drive but also well-being on board

from any Fiat model. This means surrounding the driver and passengers with technologies that

guarantee the highest levels of acoustic and climatic comfort. The result is a muted, enveloping

interior environment, free from vibration thanks to the car’s excellent soundproofing and the high

torsional and flexural rigidity of the bodyshell. There is more: the Fiat Ritmo proposes new versions

of the Blue&Me™ system and CONNECT Nav Plus, both developed by Magneti Marelli; dual-zone

automatic climate control, two audio systems (Hi-Fi and Hi-Fi Sound System); comfortable,

functional seats; and a large opening sunroof. It is clear that the model fears no rivals where

comfort is concerned. And the Ritmo offers the best equipment available in the field of automatic

systems that reduce driving stress, like Cruise Control, a rain sensor and a parking sensor. And

last but not least, the new model offers a tyre pressure sensor and numerous other features that

make travelling in the Ritmo an extremely comfortable experience.

NVH (Noise-Vibration-Harshness) comfort

The Fiat Ritmo has achieved an outstanding level of comfort, which translates into quiet

driving and an absence of vibration. Quietness on a car is expressed by the articulation index,

which is an excellent 66% on the new model, at a speed of 120 km/h. This has been made

possible both by the usual soundproofing packages and by the extensive use of expansible

diaphragms (positioned inside the boxed elements to prevent noise from propagating inside, and to

isolate the passenger compartment from the outside world). Vibration has been contained by

building an extremely rigid bodyshell structure. In terms of flexural rigidity, an excellent value of

960 daN/mm has been achieved, while torsional rigidity is 121,800 daNm/rad. Particular attention

was also addressed to the local attachment rigidity of all the mechanical organs and the

suspension, which was designed to achieve the best possible result in terms of handling and

comfort on the road, in all driving conditions.

Climate control

The climate inside the car is one of the main factors of comfort during a journey, and it is

also important for preventive safety, because temperature, humidity and ventilation affect the

driver’s well-being and therefore his attention level. Nor can we forget that the heating and

ventilation system is also responsible for demisting the windscreen and side windows. The new

model offers a choice of three climate systems: a conventional heater, a manual climate unit and

an automatic dual-zone climate system. The latter incorporates a control unit that automatically

controls the temperature, air flow, air distribution, and activation of the compressor and the

recirculation function. The system also adopts an 'equivalent temperature' climate control strategy.

A number of sensors measure the indoor and outdoor temperatures, and assess the sensation of

thermal well-being perceived by the passenger, i.e. the energy exchange between the human body

and the passenger compartment, which is influenced by the humidity, temperature and treated air

flow. Another sensor, positioned centrally at the base of the windscreen, measures the solar

radiation in the vehicle and the slope with which the rays hit the passenger compartment. This

makes it possible to envisage any excessive increase in temperature inside the car caused by the

rays of the sun, and to predispose the climate unit in time. The dual-zone system also allows

occupants to set two different temperatures and air flows, on the left and the right sides of the

passenger compartment.

Panoramic sunroof

Life on board the Fiat Ritmo is made more enjoyable by a large sunroof (approximately 1.24

sq m, or 77% of the total surface). It is made of two glass panels, a fixed panel at the rear, and a

front panel that opens electrically, and two sunshades inside that slide towards the rear of the car.

The panoramic sunroof modifies occupants’ relationship with the surrounding environment,

letting them enjoy all the luminosity and sense of freedom provided by the large glazed surface. To

give more light to the interior, it is possible to open the sunshade and leave the window itself

closed. To travel in the 'open air', it takes a flick of the switch and just seven seconds to open the

front glazed panel and the sunshade, and enjoy a 'window onto the sky'.

The radio and Hi-Fi system

The audio system on the new model is particularly interesting, with the option of two radios

and two audio systems (Hi-Fi and Hi-Fi Sound System). The systems share the same painstaking

attention to the specifications and distribution of the speakers (which feature Water Resistano

technology), designed and calibrated for the passenger compartment. The first system, with a

power output of 40 W, includes two tweeters positioned close to the door handles, two woofers in

the front doors and two full range in the rear side panels. The second level Hi-Fi Sound System

has the same equipment, plus two additional tweeters and a subwoofer (260 W bass-reflex

amplification) in the luggage compartment, which creates a warmer, more enjoyable sound.

There is a choice of two radios (with a CD player or a CD and MP3 file player) which are

incorporated ergonomically into the design of the dashboard. They are positioned in the upper part

of the facia (the best position for the driver) where they are easily reached by the passenger, but

can also be managed by the controls on the steering wheel. Both units have a Polished Black trim

and grey keys, and include RDS (Radio Data System), TA (traffic news), and PTY functions (the

code with which radio stations indicate the type of music they broadcast, allowing the radio to

automatically select only the type of music preferred by the listener). Every time the radio is turned

on, it restores the settings in place when it was turned off, while another device automatically

corrects equalisation on the basis of the vehicle speed.

The customer can also choose between the 'pre-set equalised effects', or carry out and

memorise a personal setting of the sound parameters. A 10-CD changer is also available from

Lineaccessori, which fits into the luggage compartment and is managed by the radio controls.

Blue&Me™: communicating and travelling without borders

One year after its launch, the Blue&Me™ system is enjoying huge commercial success: it is

requested by 20% of purchasers of Fiat Auto models. That is not all. The sophisticated device has

also received a number of prestigious international awards:

from 'Frost & Sullivan', the 'Excellence in Technology of the Year Award for European

Automotive Telematics and Infotainment market' (January 19, 2006);

'Telematic Update of Detroit' awarded it the prize for the best telematic solution of the year

(May 23, 2006);

'Automotive News Europe' awarded the 'Eurostats 2006' prize to Giuseppe Bonollo, Vice

President Product Portfolio Management, for the success of the system installed in Fiat

Group cars (August 22, 2006).

Today, to mark the debut of the Fiat Ritmo, Blue&Me™ takes another step forward, offering

the new Blue&Me™ Nav version. In addition to the version marketed until now (hands-free with

Bluetooth® interface and advanced voice recognition – USB port, MP3 player and SMS text

interpreter), the new Fiat model will offer a new version that incorporates the convenience of a

navigator, at an extremely competitive price.

In future, Blue&Me Nav will also activate additional telematic services such as SOS and Concierge,

and insurance services.

Blue&Me™ Nav offers a simple, intuitive pictogram navigation system that features an

innovative method of introducing the destination using voice controls.

The destination is located in real time: the map of the country is memorised on the USB pen

drive, and this makes access to the data faster and quieter than when a CD is used.

And with Blue&Me™ Nav, all the functions are built in, and the telephone, music and

navigation information is available on the instrument panel. What is more, as he navigates, the

driver can listen to his favourite music, which he has memorised, together with the map, on the

same USB pen drive or media player, or make a telephone call using the hands-free device.

All the strong points of the system

Blue&Me™ was developed in 3 years by Fiat Auto and Microsoft. The partnership was

ratified in June 2004, with the long-term goal of designing innovative telematic systems for cars,

and it has created a product that has established itself on the market, exploiting perfectly

integrated technology that is in complete harmony with the user, as its name implies.

Based on the Windows Mobile for Automotive system, this device features an open system

that is always in step with the times, updateable, flexible and modular. With the help of Magneti

Marelli, Fiat Auto and Microsoft offer a platform that adapts to most cell phones, music players and

other personal devices, replacing current expensive, rigid hardware, with the great benefit of being

able to constantly adapt to innovations on the market, remaining perfectly integrated into the car.

All at an accessible price.

Blue&Me™ is extremely safe and easy to use. The voice control system, which is perfectly

integrated into the controls on the steering wheel and the information on the instrument panel,

allows a customer with a Bluetooth® cell phone to use it even if the phone is in a jacket or bag,

without taking his hands off the wheel. And the advanced voice recognition system allows

immediate interaction, because the voice does not have to be 'learned', even allowing incoming

text messages to be interpreted aloud.

Occupants can listen to hours and hours of digital music in MP3, WMA and WAV format

recorded on an iPod, a cell phone, an MP3 player or a USB pen drive, by connecting a digital

device to the USB port, which is in an obvious position on the centre console of the Fiat Ritmo.

The customer who purchases the Blue&Me™ Nav system will receive a navigation kit

comprising a USB pen drive with the memorised map, and a back-up CD that can be used to

transfer the map onto a personal MP3 player or iPod.

The Nav key positioned on the special board on the ceiling, connects directly to the

navigation menu, which can also be accessed via the controls on the steering wheel, or vocally.

The USB key is inserted to start navigating, and the driver uses the keys on the steering wheel to

choose his destination by selecting the initial letters of the address; he can even complete it

vocally.

Like all other information, the navigation details can be displayed on the control panel:

destination address, pictograms of the directions to follow, information on arrival and the usual

vocal suggestions of the manoeuvres to make, reproduced through the speakers.

Unlike other navigators, on which it is not possible to navigate and listen to music CDs at

the same time without a CD changer, with Blue&Me™ Nav it is easy to navigate and listen to the

music saved in the media player.

The navigation program can be used on a personal computer together with the back-up CD,

to save the maps of a number of countries, purchased separately, on the USB pen drive. Then the

driver can select a whole country (for example Italy, France, Germany, etc.), or part of a country

(for example northern/central/southern Italy), or even a region that groups together maps of

different countries (for example northern Italy and Switzerland, Austria and southern Germany).

CONNECT Nav Plus

On request the Fiat Ritmo can be fitted with the CONNECT Nav Plus system, a

sophisticated, latest generation infotelematic system that incorporates a satellite navigator, radio,

CD player, GSM dual-band hands-free telephone, voice controls and the infomobility services.

Positioned at the centre of the facia, this device has a 6.5” 256-colour TFT active matrix

screen, where the driver can follow the indications regarding the route. CONNECT was designed

to put technology at the service of the driver and to make life on board even more comfortable and

easier during the journey to one’s destination: the driver only has to press the green key to access

the GPS/GSM network and the advantages of satellite communications, dialoguing aloud with an

operator, a personal assistant who is ready to respond to any request for information, in the

driver’s language.

The various services available include:

• receiving information about traffic conditions on the Italian motorway and superhighway

network in real time, customised to a particular route or area of interest;

• requesting the address or telephone number of a private individual or company, from the

Drive Me service. The operator will send the information to the instrument display panel by text

message, after which the destination may be selected by touching a single key, and it is equally

simple and immediate to call the number in the message without having to key it in;

• a 24-hour online medical consultancy service.

Cruise Control

The Cruise Control system available on the Fiat Ritmo helps the motorist to control the

vehicle speed, enhancing travelling comfort. The device acts directly on the engine throttle,

automatically maintaining the cruising speed set by the driver. It is only necessary to turn the ring

on the special lever positioned to the left of the steering wheel to the 'ON' position, adjusting the

speed using 'plus' (or 'minus'). When the ring is released the car will continue to travel at the

memorised speed without the driver having to touch the accelerator pedal.

Cruise Control can function over the engine’s entire rpm range, but only at speeds above

40 km/h. So it is advisable to activate it in road conditions that will make it possible to maintain the

memorised value safely.

If the accelerator pedal is pressed (for example to overtake), Cruise Control is momentarily

over-ridden, but the system remains active. The car will therefore accelerate as requested, but as

soon as the pedal is released, the system will resume the memorised speed. For obvious safety

reasons, the device is automatically de-activated if the driver puts his foot on the brake or clutch

pedal. In this case, the 'RESUME' button on the end of the Cruise Control system control lever

must be pressed to recover the pre-set speed.

To definitively de-activate Cruise Control and cancel any previous setting, the ring nut must

be turned to the 'OFF' position and the engine turned off. A telltale on the multifunction display

indicates whether the system is operating or de-activated. The ASR system (Anti Slip Regulation)

takes priority over the automatic speed control; if ASR has to intervene, the system will then

resume the set speed.

Parking sensor

During parking manoeuvres, obstacles behind the car may be outside the driver’s field of

vision, or he may simply not know how much space separates his car from the car parked behind.

In this situation the parking sensor can help; it is activated every time reverse is engaged when the

ignition key is in the MAR position.

The system comprises an electronic control unit with an interface for the CAN network, four

ultrasonic sensors in the rear bumper and a beeper. The four sensors cover both the rear side

areas of the car (from a distance of less than 60 centimetres), and central rear area (from a

distance of less than 150 cm).

We can see how it functions in detail. The four ultrasonic transducers act as intelligent

transmitters and receivers of impulses. The latter are emitted every time reverse is engaged; if they

meet an obstacle they are reflected and received like an echo by the sensor itself. At this point the

incoming signal is converted into a digital signal and sent to the electronic control unit, which

activates the acoustic alarm. The information is then transmitted to the driver by intermittent beeps,

which become more insistent until the car reaches a distance of 30 centimetres from the obstacle,

when the signal becomes constant.

The beeping stops if the lateral sensors detect an approaching obstacle for more than three

seconds, so that the system does not continue to beep while parking along a wall parallel to the

vehicle axis. The parking system is also available with eight sensors (the additional four sensors

cover the front end of the Ritmo).

Rain sensor

Good visibility at all times is an important aspect of preventive safety. Which is why the Fiat

Ritmo offers a rain sensor, to ensure that the windscreen is always clean, even in bad weather.

The system is applied in the upper part of the passenger compartment, behind the central rearview

mirror, and it automatically activates the windscreen wipers and regulates their frequency

depending on the intensity of the rain. It is activated by moving the right-hand steering wheel stalk

to the first position (intermittency), and its operation is based on the principle of the refraction of

infrared rays through the glass and the drops of water. The optical element of the sensor (lens)

sends an infrared ray to the windscreen, which reflects it and sends it back to the sensor. Because

the luminous energy sent to the windscreen is constant, the value measured on the light received

decreases as the quantity of water and other impurities on the windscreen increases. The variation

in the signal is processed by the electronic element of the sensor, which activates the appropriate

wiper stroke frequency.

Since the wet surface disturbs the human eye more at night than during the day, the sensor

also regulates the wiper strokes on the basis of ambient light. And it recognises water streaks

caused by worn blades, compensating for the effects of the ageing of the windscreen and

electronics. And in particular situations, it activates special stroke cycles: for example, when there

are only a few drops of rain, or impurities (saline deposits, dirt, etc.), on the windscreen surface.

The sensitivity of the rain sensor can be modified by adjusting the two-position ring nut on

the right steering wheel stalk. If the engine is stopped with the system engaged, this is

automatically de-activated. When the engine starts again, the system can be re-activated by

moving the stalk to zero and then back to the first position, or by adjusting the sensitivity of the

sensor.

To indicate that it has been re-activated, the system will perform one stroke of the wipers,

even if the windscreen is dry. After the windscreen washer pump has been used, the sensor is

activated automatically for the time necessary to catch the drops dripping down the glass.

Tyre pressure sensor

The new Fiat model also includes a tyre pressure sensor, a device that indicates any

anomalies with both an acoustic alarm and an icon on the display. The TPMS (Tyre Pressure

Monitoring System) monitors two conditions: insufficient pressure and a puncture. If one of these

two thresholds is passed, the telltale will light up and a message will appear on the display. And in

the case of a puncture, the instrument panel will also emit an acoustic signal.

'Small' devices for outstanding comfort

The Fiat Ritmo changes the quality of the way we live and travel in a car. Thanks, for

example, to the 'follow me home' system that keeps the headlights on for a moment when you get

out of the car, or the new FIX&GO system to repair punctured tyres, or tinted windows for greater

privacy. The customer can also choose electric rear windows with an anti-pinch device built into

the upper seal of the windows. This device detects the presence of an obstacle between the seal

and the upper edge of the glass and immediately inverts the direction of the window mechanism.

One of the most interesting features proposed on the new model is the dead-lock, a

technical solution that puts the inside door handle and all the levers connected with the lock, into

neutral. This is an important step forward that protects the car against theft: the dead-lock renders

ineffective any tool used by thieves to force the door or its internal mechanisms. The device must

be activated deliberately (so that no one is locked in the car by mistake). After the first turn of the

key in one of the front doors, or the first impulse of the remote control, a second turn, or a second

impulse, is necessary to engage the dead-lock.

The Ritmo also offers a cargo box which raises the loading floor, making it possible to store

small personal items in the space below, and it also creates a single loading floor, level with the

folded seat. And finally, the entire range is available with the Dualdrive power steering system

which is fitted with two functioning logics and uses the power generated by a small electric motor

instead of that supplied by a hydraulic pump driven directly by the engine. What is more, with the

electric power steering system, the steering response is correlated to the speed of the car: the

higher this is, the lower the level of servo assist and the more effort required to steer, which

guarantees more precise steering. That is not all. This innovative electrical power steering device

offers customers another opportunity: that of choosing between two different calibration programs.

The first, which enhances the understanding between the driver and the car, is ideal on mixed out-

of-town routes. The second, which lightens the steering and therefore requires less effort, is perfect

in town and for parking manoeuvres. The latter is engaged by pressing the 'city' key at the centre

of the facia. But if a driver takes to the motorway and forgets to de-activate the device, it is not a

problem. To guarantee maximum safety at all times, above 30 km/h the two systems provide the

same amount of servo assist, thus ensuring that the steering wheel responds correctly even at high

speeds.

The Piedimonte S. Germano plant

The plant in Piedimonte S. Germano (Frosinone), where the Ritmo is built, is a centre of

excellence among the world’s automotive production plants. In 1972, Fiat chose the site to install a

state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. Since its early years, the plant has played an important role:

it was here that the Robot-gate system was introduced for the first time, before going on to become

the benchmark for automation in car manufacturing plants all over the world. Here Fiat decided to

invest to support the Ritmo in technological and qualitative terms, by developing an innovative

manufacturing model for the new car, based on a balanced mix of advanced automation and

human intervention to control the quality that underpins the technology of the new model. Today

the Piedimonte S. Germano plant is on the cutting edge of the world’s car manufacturing facilities.

There are no other plants in Europe that can boast a similar technological or organisational level, in

terms of the manufacturing process and techniques.

The plant is in central Italy, and it is also in a central position with respect to the other Fiat

Auto manufacturing facilities. It stands in an area of 2,033,072 square metres. The facilities include

a press shop, a panelling area, painting and assembly, and much of the site is occupied by Fiat

Auto suppliers, which are thus fully integrated in the manufacturing process and ready to intervene

directly in the various stages. About 3500 Fiat Auto employees currently work in the plant, with an

average age of 45 years. Working hours are organised in two daily eight-hour shifts, five days a

week. Since it opened in 1972, the plant has turned out numerous important Fiat models (in 2004 it

celebrated car no. 6,000,000 manufactured there), and production today includes the Ritmo, the

Croma and the Stilo Multi Wagon. Annual capacity is of over 250,000 cars, with a daily capacity of

about 1000 cars.

The plant has evolved constantly, and the manufacturing has evolved from conventional

systems to the robot-gate, the high-automation plant and now the new manufacturing model,

known as the 'integrated modular plant' which represents the most advanced structure in world car

production.

In 2001, the manufacturing process at the plant was completely re-designed, for an

investment of almost Euro 400 million, and this required over one thousand days of training for

personnel at the plant. The transformation that took place was based on the interaction of several

factors:

complete re-engineering of the manufacturing process;

re-design of the line from the viewpoint of greater ergonomics;

a new organisation of activities on the line;

the digital ETU (Elementary Technology Unit), developed thanks to widespread

computerisation throughout the manufacturing process.

These four elements of change played a decisive role in improving the capacity of the

manufacturing process, which translates into greater precision and better product quality.

The re-engineering of the manufacturing process and innovation for quality

The re-engineering of manufacturing optimised the quality and efficiency of work on the

assembly line. It focused on the panelling and assembly areas in particular, although the

reorganisation regarded the whole process, and every single stage in the process was made more

efficient. A great deal of attention was dedicated to quality checks: along the whole process, each

Ritmo undergoes over 200 checks, most of which are electronic.

1) Panelling. This is an area of crucial importance for the quality of every car, where

advanced automation is decisive to determine the quality of the product. The technological

level is evident from the figures: 437 spot welding robots, 18 continuous seam welding

robots, 916 welding calipers, a total of 280 actions. With the start of manufacture of the

Ritmo, several new innovations were introduced in this area, including 2 new side tacking

and finishing lines, 6 new robotised islands to produce mobile parts (front and rear side

doors, bonnets), and five quality areas and three training areas were set up. We should

also point out that in 2004 about 100 new welding and handling robots from the NH4, H4,

M1, S2 and X1-500 family were introduced, to join the existing number. They are fitted with

electric motors and electric welding calipers which give a hotter, cleaner and therefore

better spot weld. The panelling shop also includes two second generation opto-electronic

laser checking stations, for the chassis and for the bodyshell. Both adopt the 'single tool'

system and work on-line. The double check guarantees the perfect geometry of the car’s

skeleton: the check on the chassis, which precedes that on the bodyshell, is important as it

guarantees the quality of a part which will incorporate the engineering, so that the precision

of the shapes and measurements is essential to ensure excellent agility, driveability and

roadholding.

To this we must add the innovation of the 'single tool' system, which is a Fiat Auto

exclusive, and verifies the geometries of the chassis and bodyshell separate from the

carrier that transports them, so that a possible error in the geometry of the support will not

influence the laser measurement. This solution is a real element of excellence for the

manufacturing system of the new model, because it minimises the possibility of an error in

the laser reading. The 'Open gate' system has replaced the earlier 'Robot-gate',

guaranteeing more precise preparation and assembly of the sides, and more precise

welding, because the mechanical arms of the robots have more freedom of movement

inside the bodyshell. The 'Open gate' systems are specific for each Fiat model.

The sealing of the spot welds is verified by a system of ultrasound sensors; the

sensor tests the weld and on the basis of the amplitude of the response spectrum, may or

may not certify the quality of the weld. And finally, new equipment included two new laser

welding stations (side doors), two robots to measure the doorway and to bore the starting

points for assembly of the vehicle front, plus a robotised station to perform on-line

measurements of the panelled bodyshell (opto-electronic system).

2) Assembly. The innovation introduced in the manufacturing process of the Fiat Ritmo was

also significant at the assembly stage. First of all, the bodyshell conveyor system was re-

engineered, and self-propelled units were introduced in the assembly process, eliminating

the unpleasant background noise and achieving optimal comfort in the working

environment. Control units were introduced in the bodywork shop, with new generation

electro-air lifting, which improves the coupling of the mechanical parts to the bodyshell.

And finally, on the new model, the glue is prepared and spread on the windows by a

latest generation robotised system. And to prevent order-picking mistakes, the windows are

chosen on a computer using a multifunction display. The actual bonding on the bodyshell is

entrusted to the tactile sensitivity of a worker who guarantees the correct position of the

glass at any point of the process.

3) Painting. The paint shop was overhauled to introduce the 9 special colours for the Ritmo. A

new Painting building was also constructed, linked by a tunnel to the existing plant, which

will employ water-based paints that respect the new legislative constraints. And finally, two

new lines were built to use water-based enamel, as well as a touch-up circuit and a control

unit for the paints.

A specific response to every demand

The range (Italian market)

The new model comes in a very comprehensive range, where everyone will find the Fiat

Ritmo he is looking for. Different solutions are available on different markets, but they are all

excellent value for money and reflect the many ways of interpreting and using the car. Below is the

complete range of the standard and optional equipment available on the Italian market, in addition

to which customers can choose from the many items in the Lineaccessori range, which enhance

the new model’s practicality and versatility, as they meet the functional and emotional requirements

of each customer.

Standard and optional equipment (Italian market)

RITMO ACTIVE DYNAMIC EMOTION SPORT

LINE AND STYLINGBody-coloured bumpers s s s s sBody-coloured external door handles - - s - sChrome-plated external door handles - - - s -Heated door mirrors with outdoor temperature sensors s s - - -Electrical, heated body-coloured door mirrorswith outdoor temperature sensor - - s s sChrome inserts on waistline - - - s sMetallic paint o o o o oLenticular paint o o o o oTwo-coat paint o o o o o20-spoke 16” alloys with 205/55 tyres - o s o o14-spoke 16” alloys with 205/55 tyres - o o - -15-spoke 17” alloys with 225/45 tyres not suitable for chains – sporty design - - - - s17” alloys with 225/45 tyres not suitable for chains – elegant design - - o s -10-spoke 18” alloys with 225/40 tyres notsuitable for chains – sporty design - - - o o

(1.9 MJet 150 bhp)Dark tinted windows - - - o oRear spoiler - - - - sSideskirts - - - - sSports trim - - - - sPainted brake calipers - - - - sChrome-plated exhaust terminal - - - - sLeather upholstery - - o o oLeather-covered sporty steering wheel, gear lever and hand brake lever knobs - - - - sLeather steering wheel and gear lever knob - o s s -Sports instrument graphics - - - - sSports pedals - - - - sMetallic black interior door handles - - - - sChrome-plated interior door handles - - s s sChrome-plated air vent trims s s s s sChrome inserts on door armrest s s s s s

Chrome-plated rings on instrument panels - - s s sChrome-plated frames on interior door handle trims - - - s sMats - - - - sFacia with brushed-effect band s s - - -Facia with carbon-look band - - s s s

COMFORT/PRACTICALITYFiat Code (electronic antitheft device) s s s s sElectric front windows with automatic function and anti-pinch device s s s s sRemote door opening/closing control s s s s sElectric rear windows with anti-pinch system - - o s oAntitheft system with alarm (volumetric andanti-lift) - o o o oElectrical release of rear tailgate with 'logo-push' system s s s s sFollow me Home device s s s s sFront ceiling light with spotlight s s s s sRear ceiling light s s s s s'Night Design' light effect on handles and ceiling light - - - s sCourtesy mirrors on sunshades - - s s sIlluminated mirror on passenger side sunshade - - - s sIlluminated luggage compartment s s s s s12 Volt socket in luggage compartment o o o o oInstrument panel with trip computer and my car system s s s s sCentral console with glass holder s s s s sFront seat armrest with refrigerated locker - - o s sHeight-adjustable driver’s seat s s s s sHeight-adjustable passenger seat - - s o oStorage unit under passenger seat - - - s sManual lumbar adjustment of driver’s seat o o o s sFront seats with extra support and sports upholstery - - - - sFront seats with electric adjustment and heating - - - o -Rear armrest - - - o sSquab-back pocket on front passenger seat - - - s sSplit rear seat (3-seater) 60/40 s s s s sHeight adjustable front and rear head-restraints s s s s sThird height-adjustable rear head-restraint - - s s sLoad restraint hooks in luggage compartment s s s s sManual single-zone climate system - s s - sAutomatic dual-zone climate system - - o s o

Rear air vents - s s s sPollen filter - s s s sDualdrive™ electric power steering s s s s sCruise control - o o s oRear parking sensor - o o s oTyre pressure sensor - - o o oDusk sensor + rain sensor - - o o oGas discharge headlights - - o o oDPF (Particulate filter for diesel engines) - o o o oSky Dome: electrically opening large glass sunroof - - o o oMulti-use tyre repair kit (Fix & Go) s s s s sNormal size 15” spare wheel o - - - -Normal size 16” spare wheel - o o o -Supplementary electric heater (PTC) for diesel engines - - o o oSports pack (spoiler; sideskirts; chrome waistline trim;special pedals; lumbar adjustment of driver’s seat;leather steering wheel, gear lever and handbrake knobs;sports upholstery; 17” alloys with 225/45 tyres) - - o (1.9 MJet 120 bhp) - -

SAFETYABS + EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) s s s s sFront airbags with dual stage Smart system s s s s sFront sidebags s s s s sCurtain-bags o o s s sDriver’s kneebag o o o o oAntiwhiplash head-restraints - - o o oRear seat-belts with pre-tensioners - - - o oDe-activation of passenger airbag by My car system s s s s sFront seat-belts with pre-tensioners, load limitersand fastening sensor s s s s sHeadlight trim correction (excluding gas dischargeheadlights) s s s s sFPS (Fire Prevention System) s s s s s3-point Isofix attachments (two on rear seat) s s s s sChild safety locks s s s s sESP Electronic stability control + ASR/MSR,HBA and Hill Holder - o s s sFoglights with adaptive cornering function - o s s s

AUDIO/TELEMATICSWiring for radio with 4 speakers, 2 tweeters + aerial s s - - -

Radio with CD player, 40 W Hi-Fi audio system,4 speakers + 2 tweeters (water resistant technology) - o s s -Radio with CD + MP3 player, HiFi 40 W audio system,4 speakers + 2 tweeters (water resistant technology) - o o o s6-key radio controls on steering wheel - o s s sAudio Hi-Fi Sound system with 5-channel power amplifier,with 260 W amplified bass-reflex type subwoofer,4 speakers + 4 tweeters (water resistant technology) - - o o sBlue&Me™: hands-free system with Bluetooth™ technology,with steering wheel controls, instrument panel with multifunction display,MP3 audio file player from USB port and SMS text reader - - o o sBlue&Me Nav™: Blue&Me™ system + onboard navigation system with pictogram visualisation and map loaded on pen drive with vocal introduction of destination - - o o oNavigator+radio/telephonecontrols on steering wheel - - o o oWiring for CD changer - - o o o

o Optionals Standard- Not available

-  RITMO ACTIVE DYNAMIC

Facia brushed anthracite grey

brushed anthracite grey

carbon look blue

carbon lookanthracite grey

carbon look marmoset carbon look black

Fabric Axel Axel Inox Inox Inox SailFabric colour anthracite grey anthracite

grey blue blue anthracite grey marmoset redDoor panel anthracite blue anthracite grey marmoset redSteering wheel / Gear lever / Handbrake

Leather with red stitching

Non-metallic

Tango Red - ° - - ° ° °Glory White ° ° ° ° ° ° -

Metallic

Techno Grey ° ° ° - ° - °Epic Grey - - ° ° - ° -Symphony Blue - ° - ° ° - -Spiritual Ivory - ° ° ° - ° -Minuet Azure ° ° ° ° ° - -

Lenticular

Digital Grey - ° ° ° ° - °

Crossover Black - ° ° - ° ° °

Pearlescent

Cool Jazz Blue - ° ° ° ° ° -Blue Maserati - - - - - - -Red Maranello - - - - - - °

EMOTION SPORT

Facia carbon look blue carbon lookanthracite grey

carbon look marmoset carbon look nero

Fabric Tecnotweed sail black leather

Fabric colour blue anthracite grey marmoset red blue red stitching blue stitchingDoor panel blue anthracite grey marmoset red blue blackSteering wheel / Gear lever / Handbrake

Leather with red stitching

Leather with red stitching

Leather with blue stitching

Leather with red stitching

Leather with blue

stitchingLeather with red stitching

Leather with blue stitching

Non-metallic

Tango Red - ° ° ° - ° -Glory White ° ° - - - - -

Metallic

Techno Grey - ° - ° ° ° °Epic Grey - - ° - - - -Symphony Blue ° ° - - - - -Spiritual Ivory ° - ° - - - -Minuet Azure ° ° - - - - -

Lenticular

Digital Grey ° ° - ° ° ° °

Crossover Black - ° ° ° ° ° °

Pearlescent

Cool Jazz Blue ° ° - - - - -Blue Maserati - - - - ° - °Red Maranello - - - ° - ° -

LEATHER (DYNAMIC & EMOTION)

Facia carbon lookblue

carbon lookanthracite grey carbon look marmoset

Fabric black leather leather marmosetFabric colour blue embroidery anthracite grey embroidery marmoset embroideryDoor panel black marmosetSteering wheel / Gear lever / Handbrake  

Non-metallic

Tango Red - ° °Glory White ° ° °

Metallic

Techno Grey - ° -Epic Grey - ° °Symphony Blue ° ° -

Spiritual Ivory ° ° °Minuet Azure ° ° -

Lenticular

Digital Grey ° ° -

Crossover Black - ° °

Pearlescent

Cool Jazz Blue ° ° -Blue Maserati - - -Red Maranello - - -

The proposals of Fiat Auto Financial Services

The launch of the new Ritmo is an opportunity for Fiat Auto Financial Services, the

company created by a 50-50 joint venture between Fiat Auto and Crédit Agricole that specialises in

financial services to the Fiat Auto network and customers, to introduce a new approach to financial

products applied to vehicle sales.

Different solutions have been defined to finance the purchase of a Ritmo on the various

European markets, and they interpret the concept of an acceptable, substantial car perfectly. Here

are a few examples:

the 'freedom' purchasing formula in Italy with Sava, allows the customer to choose the best

rate to match his personal monthly budget, and to use it to purchase any version, outfit or

engine variant of the Ritmo; in addition to the simplicity of this formula which is unique

among carmakers, the formula also includes an extra 5-year warranty on the car, offered by

Sava and Fiat;

the German 'satisfaction or your money back' purchasing formula, which includes a 4-year

warranty in the loan; it also allows customers to return the car after a three-month period,

only paying a cost per kilometre. This financial product is evidently based on the awareness

on the part of Fiat and Fiat Bank, that the Ritmo, with its contents and quality, will meet the

expectations and requirements of German customers;

the all-inclusive 'Fiat for everyone' package offered in France by Fiat Crédit, which includes

maintenance, a complete insurance policy and roadside assistance in the monthly rate. The

concept of a loan that includes useful services customised to the motorist’s requirements, is

also adopted in Spain, by Fiat Financiera, where, in addition to the above services included

in the rate is an innovative policy that insures the driver’s licence against partial/total

endorsement or possible withdrawal/suspension.

The many formulae proposed for the Fiat Ritmo also include long-term rental, with very

competitive rates that have been made possible by the extremely low running costs (ordinary and

extraordinary maintenance) of the latest Fiat model.

Spec sheets

ENGINE FIRE 1.4 16V 90 bhp

No. of cylinders, arrangement 4, in line, front transverseBore x stroke (mm) 72.0 x 84.0Capacity (cc) 1368Compression ratio 11:1Max. power output EC: kW (bhp) at rpm 66 (90) at 5500 rpmPeak torque EC: Nm (kgm) at rpm 128 (13.0) at 4500 rpmEmissions compliance Euro 4Emissions control three-way catalytic converter in engine bay, 2 heated

Lambda probes, EOBDTiming (drive) 2 OHC (toothed belt), hydraulic tappets Fuel supply MPI electronic sequential phased, returnless system

TRANSMISSIONDrive frontGearbox, no. of speeds 6 + Reverse

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMBattery: capacity (Ah) 50 Ah STEERING Steering box Dualdrive™ electrical power steeringTurning circle between kerbs (m):16" / 17" tyres 10.418" tyres 11

BRAKES - D (disc) with ABSFront: Ø mm D 257 X 22 mm (ventilated)Rear: Ø mm D 251 X 10 mm

SUSPENSIONFront independent MacPherson, dual rate telescopic dampers, anti-

roll bar with spherical joint con rods Rear interconnected wheels with torsion rear axle, telescopic

dampers, anti-roll bar

WHEELS Tyres 195/65 R 15 91H

205/55 R 16 91H225/45 R 17 91V

DIMENSIONS Wheelbase (mm) 2600Front/rear track (mm) 1538/1532Length/Width (mm) 4336/1792Height empty (mm) 1498Luggage compartment capacity VDA (dm3): standard with Fix&Go 400with rear seat folded down 1175

SUPPLIES - WEIGHTS Fuel tank (|) 58Kerb weight DIN (kg) 1205Max. towable weight (kg) 1000

PERFORMANCE - CONSUMPTION Top speed (km/h) 179

Acceleration (s): 0 - 100 km/h(2 adults + 20 kg) 12.5Consumption - EC Dir. 1999/100 (l/100 km)urban 8.7out of town 5.6combined 6.7Combined CO2 emissions (g/km) 158

ENGINE MJET 1.9 8V 120 bhp

No. of cylinders, arrangement 4, in line, front transverseBore x stroke (mm) 82.0 x 90.4Capacity (cc) 1910Compression ratio 18:1Max. power output EC: kW (bhp) at rpm 88 (120) at 4000 rpmPeak torque EC: Nm (kgm) at rpm 255 (26) at 2000 rpmEmissions compliance Euro 4Emissions control 2 oxidising catalysers (in engine bay and under body), electrical

EGR valve, EOBDTiming (drive) 1 OHC (toothed belt), mechanical tappets Fuel supply direct injection, Common Rail Multijet with electronic control,

variable geometry turbo and intercooler

TRANSMISSIONDrive frontGearbox, no. of speeds 5 + Reverse

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMBattery: capacity (Ah) 60 Ah STEERING Steering box Dualdrive™ electrical power steeringTurning circle between kerbs (m):16" / 17" tyres 10.418" tyres 11

BRAKES - D (disc) with ABSFront: Ø mm D 284 X 22 mm (ventilated)Rear: Ø mm D 251 X 10 mm

SUSPENSIONFront independent MacPherson, dual rate telescopic dampers, anti-

roll bar with spherical joint con rods Rear interconnected wheels with torsion rear axle, telescopic

dampers, anti-roll bar

WHEELS Tyres 195/65 R 15 91H

205/55 R 16 91H225/45 R 17 91V

DIMENSIONS Wheelbase (mm) 2600Front/rear track (mm) 1538/1532Length/Width (mm) 4336/1792Height empty (mm) 1498Luggage compartment capacity VDA (dm3): standard with Fix&Go 400with rear seat folded down 1175

SUPPLIES - WEIGHTS Fuel tank (|) 58

Kerb weight DIN (kg) 1320Max. towable weight (kg) 1300

PERFORMANCE - CONSUMPTION Top speed (km/h) 194Acceleration (s): 0 - 100 km/h(2 adults + 20 kg) 10.5Consumption - EC Dir. 1999/100 (l/100 km)urban 6.9out of town 4.3combined 5.3Combined CO2 emissions (g/km) 139

ENGINE MJET 1.9 16V 150 bhp

No. of cylinders, arrangement 4, in line, front transverseBore x stroke (mm) 82.0 x 90.4Capacity (cc) 1910Compression ratio 17.5:1Max. power output EC: kW (bhp) at rpm 110 (150) at 4000 rpmPeak torque EC: Nm (kgm) at rpm 305 (31) at 2000 rpmEmissions compliance Euro 4Emissions control 2 oxidising catalysers (in engine bay and under body), electrical

EGR valve, EOBDTiming (drive) 2 OHC (toothed belt), hydraulic tappets (indirect roller drive)Fuel supply direct injection, Common Rail Multijet with electronic control,

variable geometry turbo and intercooler

TRANSMISSIONDrive frontGearbox, no. of speeds 6 + Reverse

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMBattery: capacity (Ah) 60 Ah STEERING Steering box Dualdrive™ electrical power steeringTurning circle between kerbs (m):16" / 17" tyres 10.418" tyres 11

BRAKES - D (disc) with ABS Front: Ø mm D 281 X 26 mm (ventilated)Rear: Ø mm D 251 X 10 mm

SUSPENSIONFront independent MacPherson, dual rate telescopic dampers, anti-

roll bar with spherical joint con rods Rear interconnected wheels with torsion rear axle, telescopic

dampers, anti-roll bar

WHEELS Tyres 205/55 R 16 91V

225/45 R 17 91V225/40 R 18 92V REINFORCED(with specific steering box)

DIMENSIONSWheelbase (mm) 2600Front/rear track (mm) 1538/1532 1530/1524 (with 18” tyres)Length/Width (mm) 4336/1792Height empty (mm) 1498

Luggage compartment capacity VDA (dm3): standard with Fix&Go 400with rear seat folded down 1175

SUPPLIES - WEIGHTS Fuel tank (|) 58Kerb weight DIN (kg) 1360Max. towable weight (kg) 1300

PERFORMANCE - CONSUMPTION Top speed (km/h) 209Acceleration (s): 0 - 100 km/h(2 adults + 20 kg) 9.0Consumption - EC Dir. 1999/100 (l/100 km)urban 7.6out of town 4.5combined 5.6Combined CO2 emissions (g/km) 149