Smart #1: the beginning of a new era for the brand?
This page is translated from the original post "Smart #1 : le début d’une nouvelle ère pour la marque ?" in French.
- 08/04/2022 16:47
Smart unveils a modestly named electric SUV #1. This model embodies the brand’s new ambitions.
With the creation of the joint venture between Mercedes and the Chinese Geely, Smart is eager to return to the forefront. The brand begins its reconquest today with an electric SUV, simply named Smart #1.
A Smart #1 with sleek lines
No surprises in terms of design: the Smart #1 is, with a few details, identical to the concept that previewed it and the camouflaged prototype. Sleek lines, light strips at the front and rear, floating roof, hidden door handles: the vehicle is very much in line with current trends. Its dimensions are similar to those of a Peugeot e-2008, notably a length of 4.27 meters. The 2.75-meter wheelbase should ensure ample interior space. The trunk capacity ranges from 323 to 411 liters, depending on the position of the sliding bench. The total weight of the car just exceeds 1800 kilograms.
Continuing the exterior lines, the dashboard carefully avoids sharp angles. It features a central 12.8-inch touchscreen, complemented by a 9.2-inch display for instrumentation and a 10-inch heads-up display. The car also benefits from an “intelligent” voice assistant, as well as customizable ambient lighting. It is equipped with all modern driver assistance systems. Features include Stop & Go, highway assistance, and traffic jam assistance, with the system receiving over-the-air updates.
Up to 440 km range
Compared to earlier Smart models, which had modest power, the #1 radically changes the technical game. Its electric powertrain can deliver 272 hp (220 kW) and 343 Nm of torque to the rear wheels. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 6.7 seconds, and top speed peaks at 180 km/h. The battery, with a capacity of 66 kWh, offers a theoretical range between 420 and 440 km (WLTP cycle).
The Smart #1 supports up to 150 kW on fast chargers, allowing for a 10% to 80% recharge in less than 30 minutes. On AC power, it will take approximately 3 hours to go from 10% to 80% charge.
Deliveries are expected to begin early next year. Initially planned for launch in late 2022, the brand will offer a special edition. Prices have not been announced yet, but they are sure to exceed €30,000.
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