Smart #1 Prices are Fixed

Rear-wheel and all-wheel drive are available

The Wolfsburg electric compact and the #1 share a commonality in their rear-wheel drive, which is predominant in most of their models. The rear engine, a characteristic that Smart stays true to, boasts an impressive 200 kW output, equivalent to 272 hp, and a maximum torque of 315 Nm.

Smart offers two variations of the engine, with the standard version featuring entry-level models and the electric drive in the more upscale #1 versions, leveraging the silicon carbide technology for better efficiency and enhanced range.

By mid-2023, Smart plans to introduce the Pulse version of the #1, which will be available in a twin-engine all-wheel drive configuration, integrating the 315 kW (428 hp) drive configuration from the Smart #1 Brabus. Notably, the Pulse version will vary from the Brabus version regarding equipment and acceleration, while boasting the same range capabilities.

Ranges and dimensions

The Sustainable Electric Architecture (SEA) from Mercedes partner Geely houses a 66 kWh lithium-ion battery in the underbody between the axles. Boasting a WLTP range of 400 to 420 km, the battery charges to 80 percent in a mere three hours with 22 kW of alternating current (AC).

Additionally, a fast charger with 150 kW capability can complete the same charging task in under 30 minutes. The charging cables, including CCS and Type 2, are ingeniously tucked away under the front flap in the “Frunk” area, which has a 15-liter capacity.

The trunk in the rear can hold up to 333 liters. Smart will introduce a second, smaller battery that holds a capacity of 49 kWh and uses the less expensive LFP cell chemistry, resulting in a lower range. This battery option will be available in China in March 2023 and in Europe at a later date, perhaps around the middle of the year.

It may only be possible to combine this option with the Pure and Pro equipment lines. The larger 66 kWh battery employs NMC cell chemistry, while the smaller battery uses LFP cell chemistry. The WLTP range for the smaller battery option is expected to be approximately 330 kilometers.

The cockpit boasts a minimalistic design with switches and buttons predominantly found on the three-spoke steering wheel. An expansive 12.8-inch touchscreen sits front and center, complemented by a 9.2-inch speedometer display. For higher-tier versions, a 10-inch head-up display is also installed.

An impressive range of driver-assistance features augment safety measures, including adaptive cruise control with stop & go function, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, traffic sign recognition, and a highway assistant with lane change and traffic jam assistant, along with a 360-degree camera. The “Premium,” “Launch Edition,” and “Brabus” variants additionally include an automatic parking assistant and adaptive high beam. Standard safety features comprise seven airbags, which include front airbags for driver and passenger, far-side airbags, front-side airbags for driver and passenger, and side curtain airbags.

With advanced voice recognition technology backed by AI, users can personalize the infotainment system and access data through an app, which can be saved in the cloud. Upgrades for 75 percent of Electronic Control Units (ECUs) are delivered over the air, and owners can share their digital keys through a peer-2-peer system, controlling users’ access rights.

Prices for the Smart #1

At the market launch, Smart #1 offers a total of four equipment lines to meet the varying needs of the target market. The Smart #1 Pro+ serves as the entry-level line, priced at 41,490 euros. This line boasts premium features, including leatherette seats, concealed electric door handles, seat heating for the driver and front passenger, and two-zone automatic climate control, among others. Additionally, the basic equipment will include a 22 kW onboard charger from May 2023, which will raise the price to 42,490 euros.

The Smart #1 Premium line is positioned at the top end of the price spectrum, with a price list from 44,990 euros. This line includes advanced features such as LED headlights with adaptive high beams and dynamic LED rear lights, a heat pump, and a Beats sound system, among others. The line also comes with a 22 kW onboard charger, duo leather seats, and a head-up display.

The Smart #1 Launch Edition, priced at 46,290 euros, offers a unique driving experience with its exclusive exterior color, Digital White with Platinum Gold roof, 19-inch Prism wheels, and “One of 1,000” emblem. This line also includes content from the lower versions and is sure to catch the attention of the target market.

The Smart #1 Brabus, the top-of-the-line model, is priced at a minimum of 48,990 euros. It features an impressive Brabus interior and exterior package, with sporty body styling in various color combinations, a red roof, an Alcantara steering wheel, and microfiber seats. This model is designed with an all-wheel drive, a power output of 315 kW (428 hp), and a maximum torque of 543 Nm, allowing for an acceleration of 0-100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.

Looking to the future, Smart is set to release four new equipment variants in mid-2023. These include the Pure, Pro, Pure+, and Pulse lines, which are expected to offer unique features and options that cater to the diverse preferences of the target market.

Sale in car dealerships and online

In addition to its partnership with Mercedes-Benz dealerships, Smart will engage in direct-to-consumer sales through its online channels. Smart #1 models have been available for pre-order since October 18, allowing interested parties to secure their orders prior to the formal release. The pre-order phase will run until January 24, 2023, followed by the official launch of the Smart #1 on February 6, 2023.

The Smart #1 production model, while drawing inspiration from the IAA study, exhibits notable divergences. This is unsurprising, as concept cars afford greater creative liberty to designers compared to the constraints imposed by technical and design considerations of production models. The Smart #1 boasts a captivating blend of design elements from the Mercedes EQA, Opel Adam, Mini Cooper, and Tesla. In terms of dimensions and performance, Smart #1 represents a remarkable leap forward in the brand’s standards.