by Smart returns to its roots with the new #2 electric car
Smart, a company once synonymous with the miniature ForTwo, then focused on crossovers and its first sedan, is finally returning to its roots. The new electric #2 model is set to debut this autumn.
The two-seat city car will be presented at the Paris Motor Show in October. Its concept version was shown earlier this year. The production model closely resembles the concept but features an updated grille and vertical air intakes.
Design and features
On the side panels, conventional mirrors and side skirts have appeared. The car also features traditional door handles and a larger charging port flap. The rear has become more restrained: a new liftgate with a recess for the license plate, a spoiler, and a relatively simple rear bumper.
Smart stated that the #2 is undergoing “rigorous pre-series inspection and validation” to ensure “unparalleled urban maneuverability, driving stability, enhanced comfort, and uncompromising safety.” Prototypes have already passed a series of “real-world urban tests,” and engineers continue to refine the model.
Technical specifications
Particular attention was paid to the tires: several rubber compounds were tested on various surfaces, including rough asphalt, ribbed concrete, and high-speed straights. The ultimate goal is to select a tire with “an optimal balance between low rolling resistance for maximum range and exceptional noise reduction.”
The manufacturer previously announced that the #2 will be based on the new Electric Compact Architecture, developed specifically for electric vehicles. The model will feature a battery pack with a capacity of 35.7 kWh, providing a range of approximately 186 miles (300 km). Fast DC charging will allow the battery to be replenished from 10% to 80% in less than 20 minutes.
The car’s dimensions are 109.9 inches (2,792 mm) in length, with a turning radius of 22.8 feet (6.95 meters). Thus, the new model is 3.8 inches (97 mm) longer than the second-generation ForTwo.
The return to a two-seat format seems a logical step for Smart, given the growing demand for compact city electric vehicles. Although the #2 has become slightly larger than its predecessor, its small size and maneuverability remain key advantages. It is worth noting that the 300 km range is quite sufficient for daily city trips, and fast charging makes the car practical for active use. It remains to wait for the official presentation in Paris to find out the final price and trim levels of the new model.
