Smart improves #1 and #3 with over-the-air update

Smart has delivered a number of key improvements to its #1 and #3 models, via an over-the-air (OTA) software update.

The free update brings new functions and optimisation that further increase convenience, comfort and safety in various driving situations.

Highlights include optimised energy recovery management and up-to-date traffic announcements. The update also includes the following features:

• Vehicle-to-Load: As part of energy management, the traction battery of smart vehicles can supply power to external devices. This requires a special vehicle-to-device cable.
• Low energy regeneration: A lower level of regenerative braking has been introduced as a new function. This setting gives the driver the option of selecting a gentler level of braking regen, offering more configurability and ensuring the #1 and #3 models can be more precisely tailored to a range of driving styles.
• New sound experiences for the smart #1: This update enables new sound effects for the interior of the smart #1 Premium and new engine simulation sounds in the smart #1 Brabus and Smart #1 Launch Edition.
• Smart Companion: For the first time, a choice of avatar can be selected for both models, either the characteristic fox or the cheetah. Owners can also specify whether the avatar should be displayed with full animation or as a static graphic.
• Flexible 360-degree camera window: The “picture-in-picture” 360-degree camera view (if available) can be positioned as desired on the central screen.

Since the launch of the new product generation, Smart says it has provided five OTA updates free of charge.

Xuan-Zeng Goh, head of product management of Smart Europe GmbH, said: “At smart, the customer is at the centre of everything we do. We constantly listen to our customers’ feedback and strive to improve the user experience with every update. In this way we use technology intelligently and responsibly to continuously improve our products, providing our customers with a better ownership experience.”