Fiat 500 launches in London Eye

The Italian carmakers managed to fit the car into one of the London Eye's capsules

Click here for our EXCLUSIVE Fiat 500 slide show

The Fiat 500 launched amid a spectacular fanfare in the shadow of the London Eye last night – and Auto Trader was there to watch the action.

Aided by chart stars The Feeling and pop sensation Mika, the highly-anticipated small car arrived at the London landmark in spectacular style.

The car took to the stage before Mika at 8pm – the 500th hour of 2008.

Other stars in attendance included former F1 boss Eddie Jordan, Eva Herzigova, Kelly Osbourne and Auto Trader TV Show presenter Edd China, who was there to see the new car for the first time.

Six foot seven Edd said: “It’s a successful modern take on an urban cutie. The great thing is I can still fit in it.”

The Italian carmakers also gave the car a ride on the London Eye itself – managing to fit the car into one of the attraction’s capsules, where it will remain until February 3.

Fiat Managing Director, Andrew Humberstone, said: "We are absolutely delighted to have given thousands of people a party to remember, and the chance to watch the launch of our new Fiat 500.

"We are confident this car, with its stylish looks, economical consumption figures, safety features and green credentials, will win a place in everyone’s hearts."

With prices from just £7,900, the 1.4-litre Fiat 500 undercuts the Mini One by over £5,000.

Click here for our EXCLUSIVE Fiat 500 slide show