Smart has unveiled the #2, an ultra-compact electric vehicle, at the Paris Motor Show. It arrives four years after the company introduced the Smart #1 and marks a return to the brand's miniature roots after a string of SUV releases. The car is tiny and recalls the iconic Smart Fortwo, seating two people and designed to make navigating tight city streets and parking in narrow spaces effortless. It will be offered in a variety of two-tone color options that echo the original Fortwo.
A rear-mounted 60kW electric motor delivers 130Nm of torque to the back wheels. The rear tires are actually larger than the front ones, which should enhance stability. The floor-mounted battery offers up to 180 miles (290km) per charge, a decent figure for an ultra-compact. The car also supports fast charging, going from 10 to 80 percent in 20 minutes at a suitable outlet. Smart promises sportier handling and greater comfort thanks to a five-link rear suspension system.
Despite its retro look, the Smart #2 is packed with modern features, including driver assistance systems, a 10.1-inch central screen and an 8.8-inch driver display. It can connect wirelessly to devices via 4G, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The Pure is the entry-level trim, while the Pure+ adds 11kW AC charging and a heated driver seat. The Premium adds a glass roof, heated leather seats and a seven-speaker Sennheiser sound system. The limited Couture Edition features a white exterior, gold-painted roof and gold-detailed tires, with just 999 units produced.
Exact pricing and availability have not been confirmed, but Smart says the starting price will be under $26,500 (£20,000). Preorders open in the spring, with deliveries expected during the summer. The car is unlikely to reach America, as Smart has not sold anything there since 2019 and the market has shown little appetite for small, budget-friendly EVs.
Source: Engadget · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing