Smart has just started a new era. The Bavarian manufacturer almost "hit his bones in the holy field" due to a clear inability to increase his sales. On the other hand, it was something logical and normal since living off only two models that were part of the premium segment but that did not provide anything differential, was at least impossible. More if possible when they decided to take the step and eliminated all the thermal mechanics to leave only the electric ones.
Well, the history of the ForTwo and ForFour has been left behind to give way to the unpublished Smart #1. The last time we talked about him was a few days ago, precisely when we learned the date of his debut. To get to know him, they have marked a complete press release that, together with good graphic material, helps us to dissect his secrets. and eye that arrives loaded with gadgets and technology that, now yes, put it fully into the struggle for the premium niche.
The design of the new Smart #1 breaks schemes within the firm
As is evident from the official photos, the final design of the new Smart #1 is traced to that of the patents. We talked about them some time ago, although now we can see them in color and combining different planes. However, we are facing a B-SUV 4,27 meters long It reaches 1,82 meters wide and 1,64 meters high. For its part, the wheelbase is 2,75 meters, higher than many of its premium and general rivals.
Without becoming a copy of any model, #1 resembles Kia products or Mercedes-Benz itself. Just take a look at its front optics, the lines that shape the bumpers or the volumes of the side or wheel arches. For later optics there is also a resemblance, although in this case it is closer to home to the star. In any case, it stands out for the wheels up to 19 inches or the curious "C" pillar trim.
If you do a little memory you will remember that the last time we told you that #1 would have doors without frames. That's right and it's not the only design detail with which it boasts style. To highlight the hidden door handles in the bodywork or generous panoramic glass roof. As a complement, the contrasting tones to dress the roof or areas such as the front grille, the side skirts, the roof bars or the rear-view mirrors.
Simple, technological and very habitable interior…
If the exterior design of the new Smart #1 could be “cautious” behind closed doors, the opposite happens. It had been a lot of years since we had seen a product of such an original brand. Especially for the 3-inch central touch screen with 12,8D technology. For its part, the instrumentation is also digital, although in this case it is satisfied with a 9,2-inch display. Nor can we ignore the bulky front center console.
To increase the technological sensation Virtually all checks have been removed.. Those of the climate go in the lower area of the central touch screen and those of the transmission are not even seen. In any case, it will have state-of-the-art driving aids, including Stop&Go adaptive cruise control, active lane keeping system, motorway and traffic jam assistant, blind spot control or automatic parking system.
As we mentioned earlier, the Smart #1 has a wheelbase of 2,75 meters. Thanks to it, it can offer one of the most generous cabins in the segment. In addition, the rear bench seat is mobile, moving longitudinally in 1/3 or 2/3 sections to increase the load volume. Lastly, there are several possibilities to personalize your cabin, choosing between materials such as leather or textiles.
200 kW of power fed from a 66 kWh lithium battery that promises up to 440 kilometers of autonomy...
If you liked what you've read about the new Smart #1 so far, wait until you find out what its powertrain is like. You know that it is one hundred percent electric, but not that it has a power of 200 kW (272 hp) and 343 Nm of torque that reach the ground through the rear axle. To power itself, it relies on a lithium ion battery with 66 kWh of energy capacity that, according to Smart, promises a WLTP autonomy that oscillates between 420 kilometers and the 440 kilometers.
The benefits announced by the Bavarian-Chinese firm are limited to maximum speed of 180 kilometers per hour. As for the load, things change, because at 22 kW and alternating current it can recover autonomy in about 3,5 hours. For its part, with direct current and 150 kW, the operation takes 30 minutes to go from 10 to 80 percent. Of course, in the press release they indicate that these data still have to be definitively validated.
When will #1 hit the market? Do you know its official price?
And we come to the most interesting part. When will the new #1 hit the market? o What will be its price? Well, we're sorry to tell you this, but So far there is no answer to either question.. At least for our country, but we are convinced that in a matter of a handful of days they will complete all the missing information. In any case, the new life of Smart has just started and halfway between Europe and China it could shine...
Source - Smart
More information about this model
- Plazas 5
- Power 272 - 428 hp
- Consumer goods 16,7 - 17,9l/100km
- Assessment 4,5