The Daimler-owned small car brand Smart hasn’t released a new model in several years. The urban mini-compact brand teamed up with Volvo automaker Geely in 2019 to transform Smart into an EV-only brand with the first vehicles to launch in 2022. We are now starting to see the fruits of this partnership with the unveiling of the Smart Concept 1 at the IAA Mobility motor show in Munich.
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The most notable aspect of the Smart Concept 1 is its size – it is significantly larger than any Smart model we’ve seen thus far. It was designed by Mercedes (which is apparent when looking at the styling), and the four-seater is about the same size as the larger Mini Countryman. The aerodynamics are at the forefront of the design language, with a massive glass roof and sleek interior.
The EV drivetrain has been built on Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) designed to be used across Geely’s nine automotive brands, including Volvo, Polestar and Lotus. It will support over-the-air updates and super-charging technology.
While it is still a concept and won’t go into production as is, the final product will look very similar in design and scope. The Concept 1 has scissor doors (or suicide doors), assisting with easy entry in the rear. Once again, this may not make it to the final production version of the vehicle. On the inside it has a large 12.8-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard, with more touch controls and buttons on the steering wheel.
According to Daimler and Geely, the aim is to turn this concept into a production vehicle with multiple versions. It will have a long-range model, while enthusiasts can expect the “highest level of dynamic handling” from another version.
The vehicle is being built and will launch first in China but will launch in Europe soon thereafter. It is also expected to be launched in other markets, but no further details are available.
