Smart Concept #1: Production model breaks cover

The all-electric micro car brand is preparing to launch its first SUV – but it won’t be sold in Australia.

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The production version of Smart’s upcoming electric SUV – previewed in ‘Concept #1’ show car form at this year’s Munich motor show – has been revealed, courtesy of European Union intellectual property filings.

New digital renders detail a few minor changes over the concept variant, including revised grille,

front fascia, and rear ‘diffuser’ design elements.

Smaller wheels also replace the 21-inch alloys seen at the motor show, and, while the concept was a four-seater, the production car is tipped to seat five (however the interior is not revealed in the new images).

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The upcoming model – which is yet to be named – will by underpinned by Chinese car giant Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), and designed by Mercedes-Benz. The two companies, which co-own the Smart marque, will build the vehicle at a shared facility in China.

Performance specifications are yet to be announced. However, the dual-motor platform reportedly offers maximum outputs of 400kW/700Nm, and a range of ‘up to’ 700km.

A spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz Australia was not immediately available for comment, however the brand previously told Drive there are currently no plans to offer the Smart range locally.

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