When a Small Car Created a Big Movement
In August 2009, the quiet Alpine town of Zell am See / Kaprun, Austria, became the center of the Smart universe. What started as a niche gathering quickly turned into the largest meeting of Smart enthusiasts in the world, bringing together thousands of fans, over a thousand cars, and a level of passion rarely seen in the automotive world.
Smart Times 2009 was not just an event — it was a statement: the Smart had officially become a global cult car.
From City Car to Cult Icon
When the Smart ForTwo was launched in 1998 (check the Smart ForTwo generations), few could have predicted its long-term cultural impact. At just 2.5 meters long, it redefined urban mobility and created its own segment.
Eleven years later, that small city car had built something much bigger:
- a loyal and growing international community
- a strong tuning culture
- and a lifestyle that extended far beyond transportation
By 2009, Smart was no longer just a practical solution — it was an identity.
A Global Gathering in the Alps
Between August 21 and 23, 2009, Smart Times welcomed enthusiasts from across Europe and beyond. Visitors arrived from Germany, Italy, France, the UK, Scandinavia, Eastern Europe — and even from Australia, Japan, and New Zealand.
The diversity of participants reflected the universal appeal of the brand. From students to drivers in their 70s and 80s, everyone shared the same enthusiasm.
Despite its size, the Smart brought people together in a way few cars could.
The Event: More Than Just Cars
The festival took place on the old airport site in Zell am See and combined multiple elements into a unique experience:
- large-scale car convoys
- tuning and design competitions
- live concerts and parties
- technical discussions with engineers and tuners
- an accessories and parts market
Participation was free, but the experience itself was priceless.
The Legendary Convoy – Smart Parade
One of the main highlights of Smart Times 2009 was the massive convoy around Lake Zell.
Stretching for kilometers, the parade of Smarts created a spectacular visual moment. The year before, 743 cars had taken part, earning a place in the Guinness Book of Records. In 2009, organizers hoped to surpass that number.
Although the record wasn’t broken, the atmosphere made it clear: this was never just about numbers — it was about community.
Creativity Without Limits
If there is one thing that defines Smart Times, it is individuality.
Everywhere you looked, there were unique builds:
- matte black roadsters with contrasting rims
- Gulf racing-inspired liveries
- Smarts decorated with playful elements like smiley faces
- completely re-engineered concepts
One of the most striking examples was a three-axle Smart pickup, a radical transformation that pushed the limits of what a Smart could be.
Even within the limited space of a Fortwo, owners proved that creativity has no boundaries.
The Rise of Performance
While Smart cars are known for efficiency, Smart Times showed a different side: performance.
Tuning has become a key part of the culture, with builds ranging from mild upgrades to extreme engineering projects.
- a Smart Fortwo powered by a motorcycle engine producing around 180 HP
- heavily modified Roadsters with over 100 HP
- Brabus performance showcases, including high-powered Forfour and Roadster variants
These cars transformed the Smart from a city commuter into a true pocket rocket.
Engineering Passion and Dedication
Behind every build lies an incredible amount of work.
- weeks or months to complete
- thousands of euros in investment
- countless hours of custom fabrication
Examples included:
- custom braking systems sourced from high-performance cars
- handmade suspension components
- fully redesigned interiors with leather, aluminum, and custom electronics
One standout build featured a motorcycle engine swap, custom suspension, upgraded braking system, and a completely re-engineered rear section.
These weren’t just modifications — they were engineering statements.
Competition and Recognition
Smart Times 2009 also featured official contests, where cars were evaluated based on:
- design and aesthetics
- tuning and performance
- audio systems
- driving skills
Winners were awarded trophies and prizes, but more importantly, recognition within the community.
Weather, Challenges, and Atmosphere
Like any mountain event, Smart Times had its challenges.
At one point, heavy rain flooded the event area, temporarily disrupting activities. But the mood remained positive. Participants adapted and continued, proving once again that the event was about more than perfect conditions.
Music, Celebration, and Lifestyle
Smart Times was not just about cars — it was a festival.
The main party took place at Kaprun Castle, under the motto: “Welcome to the smart class”.
The evening featured a live performance by British artist Steve Appleton, adding a musical dimension to the experience.
A Moment That Says It All
Among all the technical achievements and custom builds, one simple moment captured the spirit of the event:
“Daddy, that’s the best!”
That reaction explains everything.
Smart Times – A Growing Phenomenon
By the end of the event, one thing was clear: Smart Times was no longer just a gathering — it was becoming a tradition.
Zell am See had the potential to become a permanent home for the Smart community, similar to other iconic automotive events in Europe.
Smart Times 2009 proved that even the smallest car can create the biggest impact.
From technical innovation to emotional connection, from global participation to local atmosphere, the event showed that Smart is more than a brand — it’s a movement.
And as the lights stayed on late in Zell am See that night, one thing was certain: this was only the beginning.
