Smart, the brand synonymous with urban electric mobility, has taken a sharp turn with the unveiling of the Concept #5. This all-electric mid-size SUV marks a significant departure from their usual city car offerings, showcasing a future-forward vision that embraces adventure and open-mindedness.
Set to debut at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition on April 25th, the Concept #5 embodies a bold new direction for the brand. It’s their most spacious and versatile vehicle yet, boasting features like all-wheel drive, off-road tires, and cutting-edge technology – all wrapped in a design that pushes boundaries.
Ready for Any Adventure
The Concept #5 throws off the limitations of city streets. Its design blends smart’s signature modern style with a rugged, adventurous spirit. A boxy silhouette and innovative roof structure hint at its capability, while hidden features like an integrated winch and rear step for roof access solidify its practicality.
This isn’t just an aesthetic choice. The Concept #5 boasts an 800-volt electric drivetrain and a 100+ kWh battery, enabling super-fast charging and a driving range exceeding 340 miles based on the WLTP cycle. Multiple driving modes provide effortless maneuvering on any terrain, while an advanced ADAS suite with smart Pilot technology ensures safety on both highways and urban environments.
Dirk Adelmann, CEO of smart Europe GmbH, emphasizes the groundbreaking nature of the Concept #5: “For more than a quarter of a century, smart has been a pioneer in urban mobility. The Concept #5 shatters expectations and opens a new chapter for our brand, offering unexpected versatility for customers worldwide.”
A Distinctive Look and Feel
The Concept #5’s exterior exudes confidence with its robust design and unique details. Short overhangs contribute to a surprisingly efficient use of space, while playful light animations add a touch of personality.
Carrying smart‘s signature focus on comfort and convenience to a new level, the interior offers a spacious and user-friendly environment. Horizontally aligned features and intuitive interfaces create a clean and organized feel.
A technologically advanced cabin takes center stage, featuring a wide console with a new human-machine-interface layout and dual OLED screens powered by a high-performance AMD V2000 chip. Ambient lighting and a portable speaker add further charm to the passenger experience.
The innovative zero-gravity front passenger seat combines comfort with advanced safety features, including heating, ventilation, massage functions, a leg rest, and new airbag solutions.
A Glimpse into the Future
The Concept #5 isn’t just about design and capability; it also offers a glimpse into the future of in-vehicle AI integration. Cerence, a leader in generative AI, equips the car with a state-of-the-art virtual assistant capable of engaging in natural conversations. Drivers can control key functions through voice commands, accessing information, entertainment, navigation, and vehicle control with ease.
The world premiere of the Concept #5 marks a pivotal moment for smart. The production version of this groundbreaking SUV is slated for release in the second half of 2024, signifying a bold new chapter for the brand and the electric vehicle market in general.