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Smart #2 undergoes final testing ahead of its October launch

The eagerly awaited city car developed by Geely in a joint venture with Mercedes – which was responsible for its design – is set to make its debut at the Paris Motor Show. Sales are not expected to begin until 2027.

by Corrado Canali

21 July 2026

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3' min read

Translated by AI

Versione italiana

Key points

Based on Geely’s Electric Compact Architecture
It has a turning circle of just 6.95 metres
At 2,792 metres, it is 100 mm longer than the Fortwo
The interior will feature design elements typical of premium brands
A significant new feature will provide more space inside
No rumours as yet regarding the list prices
A longer version could give small electric cars a run for their money

3' min read

Translated by AI

Versione italiana

The Smart #2, the successor to the Fortwo, is set to be launched following final testing. The car, the flagship model of the brand jointly owned by China’s Geely and Mercedes, marks Smart’s return to its roots following the launch of a range of electric crossovers, including the #5, the largest ever produced by the brand. Following its debut in October at the Paris Motor Show, it is due to arrive in European showrooms next year.

Based on Geely’s Electric Compact Architecture

The two-seater is based on an architecture specifically designed for electric models, known as the Electric Compact Architecture, developed by Geely, whilst Mercedes has overseen the design of the new #2. Full details will remain top secret until the Paris Motor Show, but Smart has already confirmed that the new electric model will offer a range of around 300 km and will also be able to recharge its battery from 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes.

It has a turning circle of just 6.95 metres

Among other things, it will offer a vehicle-to-load function that allows the battery to power external devices. New images of a #2 prototype undergoing final testing show a strong resemblance to the concept car unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show, retaining the layout with the wheels positioned at the extremities of the bodywork and the extremely compact dimensions that will ensure a turning circle of 6.95 m.

At 2,792 metres, it is 100 mm longer than the Fortwo

Measuring 2,792 mm in length, the concept is 100 mm longer than the previous Fortwo, meaning that the #2 is set to reclaim the title of the most compact electric car on the market. Smaller vehicles such as the Citroën Ami, in fact, fall into the quadricycle category. Smart has stated that the #2 will position the model in a much higher segment, whilst still prioritising interior space within its compact dimensions.

The interior will feature design elements typical of premium brands

The increased interior space is made possible by the dedicated electric vehicle platform, unlike the previous battery-powered Fortwo, which was derived from a combustion-engine model. So much so that, although the brand has not yet fully revealed the cabin, it has announced that the interior will be refined and, in some cases, luxurious compared to the minimalist design of the original model. We’ll find out more at the Paris Motor Show.

A significant new feature will provide more interior space

The approach will, however, remain minimalist, in keeping with an exterior design stripped back to the essentials, but the generous use of leather, translucent surfaces and two-tone paintwork will help to create a premium car aesthetic. A significant new feature will be the replacement of the traditional front seats with a bench seat, a solution which, according to Smart, will free up additional interior space for the occupants.

No rumours as yet regarding the list prices

Smart has not yet provided any indication of pricing ahead of the launch, which, as mentioned, is scheduled for next year. However, the more luxurious interior and superior technical specifications suggest that the #2 could have a higher list price than the previous model, as well as offering a greater range than the limited figures of the Smart model due to be phased out in 2024.

An extended version could take on small electric cars

There are, for the time being, no plans on the horizon regarding any intention on Smart’s part to produce an extended version of the #2 fitted with a rear bench seat, thereby creating the successor to the other iconic Forfour. Such a model, however, would allow the brand to enter the increasingly competitive small electric car segment and, in doing so, take on cars of the calibre of the Renault 5, Citroën C3 and the future DS 3.