Smart, the joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely, has introduced the #2 Premium in China. The new two-seater electric vehicle arrives with a limited-time starting price of $14,943 (~AUD 21,333) after incentives, targeting urban drivers seeking a compact and efficient EV.
Smart #2 Premium Debuts With Incentives
The Smart #2 Premium officially launched in China on Thursday, continuing the roll-out of the brand’s latest city-focused EV. For a limited time, the starting price is set at $14,943 (~AUD 21,333) after incentives, while the list price stands at $15,392 (~AUD 21,974). Launch benefits include a $449 (~AUD 641) purchase incentive.
Additional purchase incentives are available for existing Smart owners. Those trading in their vehicles can receive a $1,496 (~AUD 2,135) subsidy, and repeat buyers are eligible for a $748 (~AUD 1,068) subsidy. Both offers also apply to owners of combustion-engine Smart models, though they cannot be combined.
Design and Features
Designed by Mercedes-Benz’s global team, the Smart #2 Premium is built on the Electric Compact Architecture (ECA) platform. The vehicle measures 2,751 mm (~108 inches) in length, 1,669 mm (~66 inches) in width, and 1,555 mm (~61 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 1,875 mm (~74 inches). It retains the classic two-door, two-seat proportions and ‘wheels-at-the-corners’ layout of the original ForTwo.
The #2 Premium features a 35.8-kWh lithium iron phosphate battery supplied by CATL, delivering a CLTC range of up to 410 km (~255 miles). DC fast charging can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in 15 minutes, and from 10% to 80% in no more than 20 minutes.
Performance and Safety
The Smart #2 Premium is powered by a rear-mounted motor producing 60 kW (80 hp) and 130 Nm of torque, paired with rear-wheel drive and an 11-in-1 integrated electric drive system. The car accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in 3.8 seconds and features a 50:50 weight distribution for agile urban handling.
Chassis components include MacPherson strut front suspension and a 5-link independent rear suspension, with tires that are narrower at the front and wider at the rear. The minimum turning radius is 3.35 meters, aiding maneuverability in tight city spaces.
Safety features include the Tridion Cell Evo safety body structure and seven airbags, including a dual-chamber far-side airbag. Driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot detection, and a 360-degree surround-view camera are standard.
Interior and Practicality
Inside, the #2 Premium offers a bench seat and an S-Shape ripple-inspired wraparound cockpit. Standard features include a panoramic glass roof, sunshade, and frameless doors.
The split tailgate design allows the upper glass section to open independently, while the lower section folds down to serve as a loading platform or seat, supporting up to 120 kg (~265 lbs). Buyers can also select an optional exterior color at half price for a limited time and purchase a Smart-branded charging unit with basic installation for $434 (~AUD 619).
Limited Editions and Manufacturing
Alongside the Premium trim, Smart launched the Couture Edition in China at a retail price of $16,902 (~AUD 24,131). This version is limited to 999 units each in China and Europe, with separate allocations for both markets.
The Smart #2 is manufactured in China by Geely-owned Zhejiang Haoqing Automobile Manufacturing and is intended for sale in China, Europe, and other overseas markets.
Why this matters
The launch of the Smart #2 Premium marks a significant step for the Mercedes-Benz and Geely joint venture as it seeks to revitalize the iconic two-seat city car for the electric era. With a competitive price, modern safety features, and practical urban design, the #2 Premium aims to attract city drivers looking for a compact EV solution.
The combination of incentives and updated technology positions the Smart #2 as a strong contender in the growing market for ultra-compact electric vehicles in China and beyond.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in a compact, city-focused electric vehicle now have a new option with the Smart #2 Premium. The limited-time incentives and practical features make it an appealing choice for urban mobility. Prospective customers should consider acting soon to take advantage of the launch pricing and available subsidies.
Key Specs
- Limited-Time Starting Price: $14,943 (~AUD 21,333)
- List Price: $15,392 (~AUD 21,974)
- Battery Capacity: 35.8 kWh (lithium iron phosphate, CATL cells)
- CLTC Range: 410 km (~255 miles)
- Motor Output: 60 kW (80 hp), 130 Nm
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 2,751 mm x 1,669 mm x 1,555 mm (~108 x 66 x 61 inches)
- Wheelbase: 1,875 mm (~74 inches)
- Acceleration (0-50 km/h): 3.8 seconds
- Minimum Turning Radius: 3.35 meters
Images sourced from: cnevpost.com, carbuzz.com
