Discover the Smart Concept #2, a luxury mini EV blending German design with Geely’s tech. Explore the next generation of city driving here!
Smart is returning to its roots. At the “Change Perspectives” event in Beijing, the brand unveiled the Smart Concept #2, a bold vision for the future of urban mobility. This compact electric vehicle (EV) serves as the spiritual and technical successor to the original mini Fortwo, blending iconic German aesthetics with cutting-edge Chinese engineering.
German Design Meets Futuristic Flair
Designed by Mercedes-Benz, the Concept #2 is a natural evolution of the EQ Fortwo. While it retains the familiar two-door silhouette, the design has been sharpened for a modern era. The vehicle features a short hood, oversized wheels, and a sleek, clean surface accented by striking LED headlights.
The attention to detail elevates the #2 from a mere commuter car to a “luxury urban accessory.” Notable design highlights include:
- Futuristic Wheels: Aerodynamic covers wrapped in light-colored rubber.
- Signature Lighting: Unique daytime running lights forming the “#2” motif.
- Premium Accents: Leather straps replacing traditional door handles and a grille inspired by high-end luxury luggage.
- Interactive Rear: A small matrix display on the back capable of communicating various messages to other drivers.
While the concept sports a flamboyant glossy gold roof, designers suggest some of these high-contrast elements may be toned down for the final production version.
Compact Dimensions, Maximum Agility
Measuring 2,792 mm in length, the Concept #2 is the largest two-door urban model in Smart’s history—growing by 292 mm over the original Smart and 97 mm over the previous EQ Fortwo. Despite this growth, it remains one of the smallest contenders in Europe’s A-segment.
To put its size into perspective, it is significantly shorter than the Fiat 500e (by 840 mm) and the Renault Twingo E-Tech (by 997 mm), placing it in a similar size category as the Citroen Ami and Fiat Topolino. This compact footprint ensures a turning radius of under 7 meters, making it an ideal companion for crowded city centers.
The Powerhouse: Geely’s Electric Compact Architecture
Under the skin, the Smart #2 leverages Geely’s Electric Compact Architecture (ECA), a move that dramatically boosts performance. The most significant leap is the range; the #2 targets a range of up to 400 km (CLTC), a massive upgrade from the 150 km offered by its predecessor.
Charging capabilities are equally impressive. The battery is designed to charge from 10% to 80% in less than 20 minutes and will support Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing the car to power external electronic devices.
Strategic Positioning: Luxury Over Utility
Smart CEO Xiangbei Tong and Head of Design Kai Sieber are clear about their strategy: the #2 isn’t just another budget mini EV. Instead, it is positioned as a “real car” designed to stand above the wave of low-cost electric miniatures currently dominating the Chinese market.
By using premium materials similar to those found in the larger Smart #1, the #2 aims to offer a high-end cabin experience. While interior images haven’t been released, the dedicated EV platform promises a more spacious and luxurious two-seater cabin than ever before.
Market Launch and Availability
The Smart #2 will be a pure electric offering, following the path of the #1 and #3 (unlike the larger #5 and #6, which will offer plug-in hybrid options). It is expected to retain the rear-wheel-drive layout typical of its ancestors.
The production version of the Smart #2 is scheduled for a grand reveal at the Paris Motor Show in October. While it may be available globally, the primary focus will be the UK and European markets, where the demand for premium, ultra-compact urban transport is highest.