smart has added electric power to its line-up, covering both the fortwo and forfour models. It is the first time smart has offered an electric option for the four-door model, whereas the previous-generation two-door had a smart electric drive model.
The smart electric drive models all use an 81 hp electric motor, which yields a range of up to 100 miles and a top speed of 80mph. The 7 kW on-board charger means that the car can be charged from 20% to 100% in two and a half hours using a 16-amp charger, or six hours via a standard three-pin household socket. Unfortunately, Daimler does not provide the times required for a full charge, making it difficult to directly compare the smart models to rivals like the Renault Zoe.
Specifications for the vehicles are based on the petrol-powered prime model. This includes heated front seats, cruise control, leather upholstery and 15-inch alloy wheels. Every smart electric drive model will also come with charging cables for both domestic sockets and public charging stations.
For £595 extra, a premium plus equipment line can be added. This adds a centre armrest, LED headlights and tail lights, front fog lamps, automatic lights and wipers, and a rear-view camera.
A winter package adds a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats (on the forfour only) and added insulation. This will cost £295 on fortwo models and £495 on the forfour. A mobile phone app allows drivers to check their vehicle’s charging status and pre-set the climate control.
The smart electric drive range is on sale now, with first customer deliveries expected from July. Prices start from £16,420 for the fortwo and £16,916 for the forfour. Meanwhile, the fortwo cabriolet starts at £18,650. All prices include the £4,500 Office for Low Emissions Vehicles (OLEV) grant.
