After expanding into larger electric SUVs and crossovers with models like the #1, #3, and the massive #5, the core question among city car purists remained: when is Smart returning to its authentic urban roots? The wait is over. The all-new Smart #2—the direct electric successor to the legendary Fortwo—has broken cover ahead of its official debut.
While the full world premiere is scheduled for the Paris Motor Show in October, official regulatory filings with China’s MIIT have revealed production-ready design details and key technical specifications, confirming a welcome return to ultra-compact proportions.
Design: The Iconic Fortwo DNA Reborn for the Electric Era
The new Smart #2 stays true to the unmistakable Fortwo footprint, featuring ultra-short overhangs and iconic stubby proportions. Mercedes-Benz’s design team has refreshed the aesthetic for the modern market.
Up front, the #2 features sharper, scowling headlights that provide a confident road stance, while the rear adopts smooth, rounded lighting units. Measuring just 2.75 meters in length, it is positioned to be the smallest production electric car on the market, offering full automotive capabilities far beyond standard light quadricycles.
Dedicated EV Architecture: Mercedes-Benz Meets Geely
As with the rest of the new-generation lineup, the Smart #2 is a joint effort: Mercedes-Benz spearheaded the design language, while Geely engineered the bespoke compact electric platform underneath.
1. Powertrain, Battery, and Weight
- Electric Motor: Powered by an efficient 80 bhp drive motor, tuned for instant urban responsiveness.
- Battery Chemistry: Equipped with a durable Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery pack.
- Kerb Weight: Kept down to a lean 1,130 kg, ensuring nimble dynamics despite modern safety structures.
2. Range and Rapid Charging
- Driving Range: Delivers an estimated range of up to 186 miles (approx. 300 km), dramatically outperforming previous Fortwo EQ models.
- Fast DC Charging: Capable of charging from 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes.
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): Integrated bidirectional charging allows the car’s battery pack to power external tools, camping gear, or mobile devices.
Uncompromising Urban Agility
Maneuverability has always been the cornerstone of the Smart brand experience. The Smart #2 delivers with an astonishing turning circle of just 6.95 meters—tighter than what is legally required of London’s iconic black cabs.
Inside, the cabin takes a clever approach to space optimization by utilizing a continuous bench seat instead of two restrictive individual chairs, creating an open, airy feeling inside a compact footprint.
Market Positioning and Future Outlook
With an upscale interior and modern technology, the new Smart #2 moves the entry-level city car upmarket. Deliveries are scheduled to roll out next year across European and international markets.
It remains to be seen whether Smart will eventually stretch this platform to create a 4-seater successor to the Forfour to compete directly against rivals like the Renault 5 E-Tech and Citroën ë-C3.
What do you think of the new Smart #2 design? Does it live up to the legacy of the original Fortwo? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
