Smart has announced the first vehicle created by the new partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Chinese carmaker, Geely (owner of Volvo, Polestar and Lotus).
The choice of ‘#1’ as the name for the electric crossover, with a deliberate hashtag, celebrates the youth market the car will be aimed at.
Set to be built in China, the Smart #1 will target the company’s new ‘dual home’ strategy of Chinese and European markets.
Electro Smarts
Larger than previous offerings from the Smart brand, the #1 measures 4,270mm in length. This puts it in competition with established crossover EVs such as the Vauxhall Mokka-e and DS 3 Crossback.
Geely provides its Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform for the #1. The new Smart can also take advantage of Geely’s expertise in battery and electric vehicle technology.
A 66kWh battery is standard, offering a potential official range of between 260 and 273 miles. DC rapid-charging capabilities allow the #1 to be replenished from 10 to 80 percent in less than three hours.
The #1’s rear wheels will be driven by a 272hp electric motor, with top speed limited to 112mph.
Smart space for four
Smart describes the exterior design as ‘forward-thinking and progressive’, with electric door handles and a ‘halo’ roof. Matrix LEDs are used for the front and rear lighting, with 19-inch alloy wheels standard on launch cars.
On the inside, a floating centre console is the highlight of the #1’s design. Ambient LED lighting can be customised with 64 colours and 20 illumination levels, while a 12.8-inch touchscreen controls all major functions.
Smartphone integration will be central to the #1, with drivers able to use mobile devices as a digital key. This allows access to the car to be shared between friends and family.
A sliding rear bench offers a choice between increased passenger legroom or more luggage space. Moving the bench will vary boot capacity between 273 and 411 litres. Under the bonnet, a 15-litre ‘frunk’ offers space for the charging cables.
Restart my Smart
The launch of the #1 is claimed to only be the beginning for the German-Chinese joint venture.
Dirk Adelmann, CEO of Smart Europe, said: “We are very proud to finally present the production version of our Smart #1. It is not only a symbol for our new Smart approach, but it is also the nucleus of all things to come. With the re-branding, we will put an even greater focus on a seamless mobility experience.”
When it comes to buying a #1, Smart promises to deliver a ‘real and customer-oriented omni-channel experience along the entire customer journey.” Translated, this means customers will be able to purchase a Smart from traditional dealerships or completely online.
UK prices and availability for the #1 have yet to be confirmed, but expect to see the car on sale here later in 2022.
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