Smart-Manager about #2: “We have created our own segment”

Image: Smart

Smart recently introduced the successor to the two-seater ForTwo. The new generation, designated #2, runs entirely on electricity. Its development is based on a proprietary platform, as using an existing partner platform was rejected due to too many compromises. According to European CEO Wolfgang Ufer, this compact foundation technically also allows for future larger models. The brand focuses on premium quality rather than aiming to be a mass-market brand.

Smart aims to double its sales in the German market to reach five-digit figures this year, according to Ufer in an interview with Welt. In the past, European sales have ranged from 40,000 to 60,000 vehicles. The target audience for this #2 model includes people aged 18 to 87, with the electric car’s nearly 300-kilometer range making it suitable as a second vehicle or for specific uses in urban areas.

Production and development rely on a partnership between Germany and China. Mercedes-Benz sold half of Smart to the Geely group a few years ago. While Mercedes designers handle design aspects and service is provided through Mercedes’ distribution network, Geely supplies the technology and production capacity.

At 2.74 meters in length, the #2 stands alone in its own class. “That’s our unique selling point. We’ve created our own segment where we are virtually unbeatable,” said Ufer. He views the new two-seater as a milestone that should also benefit other models of the brand.

After restarting with Geely, Smart first introduced a compact SUV, a slightly larger SUV coupe, and a mid-size SUV in Europe. In addition to these electric vehicles, there is also a medium-sized sedan with partial electrification in China. Whether a four-seater in the style of the former ForFour will follow the #2 as its successor remains undecided. The platform developed for the new two-seater would, according to Ufer, make this possible.

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Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with professional experience in the automotive industry and finance sector. Since 2011, he has been covering electric vehicles, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.

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