Smart has returned to its roots with the launch of the new smart #2, a compact all-electric two-seater revealed at the 2026 Paris Motor Show. This model aims to revive the spirit of the original smart fortwo, offering a small, nimble alternative in a market now crowded with larger SUVs, Chinese EVs, and microcars.
A Small Car Designed for Tight City Streets
The smart #2 measures just 2,746 mm (108.1 inches) in length, making it well-suited for navigating narrow European streets and crowded urban environments. It features rear-wheel drive and a tight turning circle of 6.95 meters, designed to improve maneuverability in tight spaces. A notable technical upgrade is its five-link rear suspension, which is a first for this segment, promising better ride quality and handling compared to simpler setups.
Electric Powertrain and Range
Under the rear-mounted hood sits an electric motor producing 60 kW (80 hp) and 130 Nm of torque. This setup allows the smart #2 to accelerate to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 11.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 140 km/h (87 mph), aligning with city car expectations rather than sporty performance.
The 35.8-kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack delivers a WLTP-certified driving range of up to 290 km (180 miles). While the 65 kW DC fast-charging speed might seem modest, the small battery allows a quick recharge from 10% to 80% in about 20 minutes. For daily use, the onboard AC charger supports an 11-kW connection on higher trims, reducing charging time to three hours, though the base version has a 7.4-kW charger instead.
Modern Interior and Practical Features
Inside, the smart #2 offers a modern cabin with a 10.1-inch central touchscreen and an 8.8-inch driver display. The dashboard includes a unique Smart Pillar for holding small items. The car seats two on bench-style seats and provides 305 liters (10.8 cubic feet) of luggage space, which is generous considering its compact size.
The body maintains the iconic dual-tone color scheme and includes a split tailgate, echoing the design of the original fortwo. The structure uses a new ECA platform combined with the Tridion Cell Evo, providing safety and rigidity.
Market Position and Variants
The smart #2 is produced by Smart Automobile Co., Ltd., a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group focused on manufacturing in China for worldwide distribution. Despite fierce competition from numerous small electric vehicles, including many from China, the smart #2 positions itself as a premium urban electric vehicle with four trim levels: Pure, Pure+, Premium, and a limited Couture Edition of 999 units for Europe.
This launch indicates that even as SUVs dominate global markets, there remains a niche for minimalist, efficient city cars designed to address urban mobility challenges in a practical way.
Source: autoevolution.com