Last week smart unveiled its all-new compact SUV, the smart #1 in Berlin. It represents a bold evolution for the brand, and embodies their new brand identity shaped by new design, new technology and a new approach. The main concept behind smart #1 is to make the vehicle a companion as opposed to a mere mode of transportation. With the launch of the #1, there will be two models: the launch edition, which is strictly limited to thousand units in Europe and the premium line.

“The world premiere of the s​​mart #1 in Berlin marks another milestone on the incredible road of development we began with the brand's renewal. As the first of the new generation all-electric product family, the all-new smart #1 is the perfect embodiment of this renewal,” said smart’s Global CEO Tong Xiangbei. 

Brand new design

With this idea of making the car an urban companion – and with this brand renewal – comes a renewal of the design language of smart. With the smart #1, the goal is to invite the user to connect with the car on a personal level. This is done using progressive design elements such as concealed electric door handles, frameless doors and a floating halo roof (for the launch edition) – at every angle, the driver can find a new aspect to explore. 

The interior design was also done with the purpose of pushing boundaries – especially with its space to footprint ratio: the smart #1 has a 4.270mm length, 2.750mm wheelbase and 19” inch rims, creating an impressive interior space with a 360 degree view. Sitting in the #1, is a completely new feeling as we are used to for the ultra-compact compared smart fortwo, the brand is typically known for.

The user at the center 

In terms of connectivity, smart #1 wants to place the user at the core of its thinking. This was accomplished through a dedicated app environment and customisable infotainment interface to connect people, places and experiences. The digital key option makes its super easy to share access with friends and family. Inside the cabin, you will find a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, Beats sound system and a 10-inch head-up display. The new smart also features an avatar for the car, programmed with AI-based voice control. This is all tied to the interconnected ecosystem of the car, the app and data clouds, all protected by cyber security encryption of the highest standards.

In terms of performance, the #1 is powered by a 272 hp electric motor , a maximum torque of 343 Nm and fast-charging capabilities that take the 66kWh battery from 10 to 80 percent in 30 minutes with a 150-kW DC charger. AC charging with 22kW is done in three hours.

The smart #1 will be available on the European market from the end of 2022. We can’t wait to test drive the #1 ourselves and will of course take you along. If the #1 will be followed by an ultra-compact one like the fortwo? We'll have to wait and see.

Pictures: smart
Text: Britta Reineke