- The Smart #5 is a compact electric crossover that competes with the Tesla Model Y.
- Smart lineup expands to three cars with #5
- Sales of Smart #5 will start in early 2025 in the markets where the brand is present.
Smart left the US market after 2019, but the brand is thriving in other countries.
It operates exclusively as an electric vehicle maker and on Wednesday revealed its the largest model to datecompact crossover No. 5. The presentation is a big event for the brand known for the ForTwo minicar.
#5 is the production version concept of the same name shown in April, and at 185 inches long, it's just two inches shorter than Tesla Model YHowever, its wheelbase is 114 inches long, which is actually slightly longer than the Tesla. Combined with the flat roof, that should mean generous space for the #5.
Full details will be delayed until market launch early next year, but Smart has confirmed a dedicated EV platform with 800 volt technology and a Battery 100 kWhAccording to Smart, high-speed charging can provide 10-80% charge in just 15 minutes.
No further powertrain specifications have been released, but rumors indicate that at least one version will deliver about 640 hp. Smart confirmed that there will be different driving modes, including off-road ones. These will include Sand, Snow, Mud and Rock modes.
The #5's exterior features a boxy design accented by muscular haunches, giving it a rugged look. Available accessories can further bolster the look, as well as enhance the capabilities. Some of these are previewed in a special launch edition known as Summit EditionIt is equipped with a roof light bar, roof rack, side ladder, side steps, electric towbar and underbody protection.
Inside, there are screens lining the dashboard, as well as an entertainment system with a built-in projector and a Sennheiser audio system with 21 speakers, one of which is portable. Also included is a head-up display with augmented reality. Rear storage space maxes out at 54 cubic feet, and the front trunk adds another 2.5 cubic feet. Smart hasn’t said what features are standard or available.
The latest Smart models were developed Chinese joint venture created in 2019 between Smart's original parent company Mercedes-Benz and Zhejiang Geely. Mercedes remains responsible for the cars' design, while most of the engineering and manufacturing is done by Geely in China.