Smart has unveiled its new #2 electric city car at the Paris motor show, marking the return of a familiar city car format that established the brand in the UK.
The new Smart #2 is effectively a modern successor to the discontinued Fortwo, combining similarly compact dimensions with a new electric platform and updated safety technology. It also marks a change of direction for Smart, whose recent models have been considerably larger electric SUVs.
At under three metres long, the #2 will join the UK’s small but compeitive field of electric city cars, including the BYD Dolphin Surf, Leapmotor T03, Renault Twingo E-Tech and Dacia Spring. Its wheels are positioned close to the corners of the body to maximise cabin space, while a turning circle of just seven metres should make it particularly manoeuvrable in tight streets and car parks.
The design retains several familiar features from the original Fortwo, including contrasting body colours and a split-opening tailgate.
Up to 180 miles of electric range
The Smart #2 is built on a new platform designed specifically for small electric cars. A rear-mounted electric motor produces 82hp and 130Nm of torque, driving the rear wheels.
A 36kWh battery provides a targeted WLTP driving range of up to 180 miles, although this figure has yet to be finalised.
DC rapid charging is supported at up to 65kW, with Smart claiming a 10% to 80% recharge in around 20 minutes. AC charging of up to 11kW is also available, depending on specification.
Despite its small size, the #2 features a relatively sophisticated five-link rear suspension, which Smart says has been developed to improve ride comfort and handling. Its new body structure also incorporates an updated version of the protective safety cell used in earlier Smart models.
Three versions planned for the UK
The UK line-up will initially consist of ‘Pure’ and ‘Premium’ trims, alongside a limited-run ‘Couture Edition’.
Inside, the #2 has a ten-inch central touchscreen and an nine-inch digital instrument display. Standard equipment includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane assistance and vehicle-to-load technology, allowing the car’s battery to power compatible external devices.
‘Premium’ versions add equipment including a glass roof, heated seats and a seven-speaker Sennheiser sound system.
The ‘Couture Edition’, limited to 999 examples across Europe, features matt white paintwork, a contrasting gold roof and unique interior detailing. Smart has not confirmed how many examples will be allocated to the UK.
UK pricing and availability
The Smart #2 will cost less than £20k in the UK, although exact prices for individual versions have yet to be announced. Full UK pricing is expected later this year, with pre-orders scheduled to open in spring 2027, though Smart has not yet confirmed when the first customer deliveries will begin.
