Smart #2: The return of the ForTwo with a range of nearly 300 km
It’s true that Halloween is approaching, and the #2 / ForTwo could easily be styled in a delightfully macabre way to bring joy to us adults who are still kids at heart. However, this two-seater electric microcity car has indeed returned, but sadly not with French manufacturing.
Battery 35.8 kWh
Smart has kept its promise made last April to unveil its new #2 model at the World Motor Show, one that revives the ForTwo originally produced in Hambach, Moselle. The version coming from a Chinese factory now relies on the new ECA (Electric Compact Architecture) platform designed specifically for it. Still using a rear-wheel-drive layout, it is equipped with an engine delivering 60 kW (81 hp), similar to the latest Smart ForTwo ED models, though with 130 Nm of torque—lower than the 160 Nm in the ForTwo ED.
This module is powered by an LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery with an energy capacity of 35.8 kWh. This is double that of the previous city car, which offered 17.6 kWh of usable capacity at the end of its life cycle. Naturally, the range will now be well above 135 km according to the WLTP mixed cycle. For this new #2 model, the figures are still pending approval for Europe, but 290 km is already being mentioned, which would make it more versatile.
This is especially true since it now supports fast DC charging with a current rate that can reach 65 kW. This allows for a 10 to 80% recharge of the battery pack in 20 minutes. For AC charging stations, the #2 model will come equipped with an 11 kW charger starting from the mid-range trim level.
Will V2L enthusiasts be pleased to learn that the electric chip is expected to offer this feature as standard across all trim levels? However, an accessory for connection using the European Type F plug will need to be purchased as an option.
5 cm longer
To ensure stability, the #2 will follow the ForTwo’s approach by using wider tires at the rear than at the front, with the wheels positioned at the corners of its silhouette. This also contributes positively to interior space. For passenger safety, the body with a two-part trunk has been redesigned using the Tridion Evo cell structure.
At the rear, the compact city car is suspended by a five-link system. According to the manufacturer, this is a first in its class: “Combined with the low center of gravity from the battery placed on the floor, this advanced suspension design enables a direct steering geometry, providing both more dynamic handling and improved comfort.”
Tilo Schweers, vice president of R&D at smart Europe, explains: “Finding the right balance in such a compact vehicle required fine-tuning every detail, from the chassis mounting points and steering ratio to the choice of tire compound suitable for both urban roads and highways.”
At 2.75 meters in length (+5 cm compared to the ForTwo ED), the #2 model has a turning diameter of 6.95 meters. All these features should be highly useful in urban areas, whether for parking or navigating through traffic.
Modernized
With improved range, the Smart for Two has also been modernized with driving aids that were unavailable in earlier models. These include an adaptive cruise control system that stops and restarts the vehicle based on the car ahead, as well as level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities, especially on highways. It also features blind spot detection, and for the rear, collision reduction and cross-traffic alert functions.
Aboard, in addition to the 8.8-inch instrument screen behind the steering wheel, all versions of the #2 will feature a 10.1-inch touchscreen display with 4G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity. For eight years, this vehicle will provide continuous access to connected services. The two passengers can sit in a single bench that appears divided into two seats visually, with a central console. The driver has easy-to-use controls available, including those integrated into the steering wheel.
Wolfgang Ufer, head of Smart Europe, explains this renewal: “For me, the smart #2 is far more than just a new addition to our lineup. It represents the return of a true automotive icon, reimagined for today’s cities. It retains everything that made the Smart ForTwo unique, while bringing its original concept into a new era.”
He adds, “Technology has advanced, cities have changed, and the need for intelligent urban mobility is greater than ever. There’s no doubt: it’s time for the next chapter in the smart two-seater story.”
Starting at 19,990 euros
In its base Pure trim, the Smart #2 will come standard with the already mentioned common features plus LED headlights and taillights featuring automatic high beam. The Pure+ version adds a heated driver’s seat and 11 kW AC charging. In the Premium configuration, this electric city car gets two heated synthetic leather seats along with a Sennheiser audio system featuring 7 speakers.
This high-end finish forms the basis for the limited Couture Edition launch version, available in only 999 units across Europe. Featuring a glass roof and 16-inch Lyra wheels with gold accents, it is easily recognizable by its matte white body and platinum-colored roof. It also includes ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel, wireless charging, and navigation systems. Its position in the series can be identified by a numbered badge inside.
The price for the #2 model starts at 19,990 euros.