Smart has unveiled an all-new electric crossover as part of its relaunch as an electric mobility brand.
The Smart #1 is the first new vehicle to be developed by the brand since Geely bought a 50% stake in it, from founder Mercedes-Benz, in 2019.
Powered by a 66kWh battery, the #1 is based on a Geely platform that will also underpin a new compact electric Volvo model. The car’s range is said to be up to 273 miles and it has 200kW charging capability, meaning a 10-80% boost will take less than half an hour.
A single electric motor, driving the rear wheels, serves up around 270PS and promises spritely performance.
The car’s footprint is similar to that of a Mini Countryman, while interior space is on par with that of a Mercedes E-Class. The shape of the car was optimised for aerodynamic efficiency.
While Geely took care of the car’s electrical architecture, the design was completed by Mercedes. The interior, in particular, shares common design language, although the infotainment system is said to be bespoke to Smart. There’s a large central infotainment display, along with a smaller digital instrument cluster.
Gorden Wagener, chief design officer at Mercedes-Benz AG, said: “The new Smart #1 stands for the re-start of the Smart brand and showcases our new design DNA of Sensual Product.”
The Smart #1 will go on sale towards the end of the year, with the first cars expected to arrive in early 2023.
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Matt has been an automotive journalist for eight years. As senior staff writer he is responsible for the automotive content on Fleet News and also contributes to Automotive Management. Prior to this, Matt worked in the automotive industry for 10 years.
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