Smart’s #1 primed for summer launch from £35,950
The electric SUV will come in three trim levels, and a sporty Brabus version will top the range
Smart, the reinvented brand co-owned by Mercedes-Benz and Geely, is set to launch its first new model in seven years, and will be priced from £35,950 when it goes on sale this summer.
The Smart #1 compact electric SUV is the first of a series of bespoke electric cars to be developed by the brand, and will arrive ahead of the recently unveiled #3, which is set to launch early next year.
The Renault Megane E-Tech rival will come in three trim levels: Pro+, Premium, and a limited-run Launch Edition, and all versions will adopt a 200kW single-motor powertrain. It is powered by a 66kWh battery supporting 150kW rapid charging, meaning a 10-80 percent charge in a climate 30 minutes.
The entry-level Pro+ model will include a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, heated seats, a 360-degree camera, and an automatic boot, plus a claimed range of 260 miles.
The Premium models, priced at £38,950, come with a Beats audio system, head-up display and automatic parking assist. It also includes a 22kW on-board charger, a silicon carbide investor, and a heat pump – increasing the official range to 273 miles.
The Launch Edition is priced at £39,450, with only 100 of the 1000 cars being produced coming to the UK. It rides on 19-inch alloy wheels and is finished in white paint, while a chequered pattern features on the roof. Meanwhile, inside showcases some exclusive trim colours, a two-tone leather design, and all the options included in the Premium models.
Additionally, there will be a range-topping, performance-focused Brabus variant, featuring a twin-motor set-up with all-wheel-drive. With the extra motor, the Brabus version can reach 0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds, though the extra performance means less range of 248 miles.
It comes in at £43,450, and has bonnet vents and bespoke paint for a more aggressive look, while inside can be found an Alcantara steering wheel and microfiber suede seats.
All models come equipped with a high-definition 12.8 inch infotainment screen, which can be controlled via voice and touch control, while behind the wheel sits a 9.2- inch digital instrument cluster. A 10-inch head-up display also presents information such as speed and range.