Smart electric SUV will show off brand's premium ambition
New Smart Concept #1 will preview the brand's first SUV at Munich motor show next week
Smart has released new teaser images of the concept that will preview its upcoming electric SUV at the forthcoming Munich motor show.
Dubbed the Concept #1, the new machine will be the first product from Smart since the brand became a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Chinese firm Geely. It will mark a step change in the brand's design language and positioning in line with its "growing premium and high-tech aspirations".
As previously reported by Autocar, the new five-door model is known by the codename HX11 and will be built in China.
The latest images give a glimpse of the Concept #1's extravagant lighting features, with Smart planning to shift the brand's focus to the 'premium and high-tech' sector. The 'generously dimensioned' interior is designed to appear to young families.
Previsouly released teasers give little away, beyond confirming the SUV will have a panoramic roof and a gold contrasting windowline. However, earlier sketches outlined the design of the car, including its sharp headlights, wide wheels and prominent roof bars.
The Smart logo appears on part of the rear bodywork, while concealed door handles, a large panoramic roof and illuminated elements also feature as part of the car’s design.
“Our eSUV concept embodies all of the new DNA of Smart," said Daimler Group design chief Gorden Wagener. "It’s a visionary approach that creates a new identity for the brand – more beautiful, sportier and, of course, much cooler than before."
The new five-seater is expected to be Smart’s largest model to date, at around four metres in length, and similar in size to the Mini Countryman. It will be built using Geely’s flexible SEA architecture, which will also underpin a range of future Volvo models.
Voice control and a digital key will be standard with every vehicle.
Chinese reports have suggested the car will be fitted with a rear-mounted electric motor with a maximum power of 268bhp, a lithium ion battery with a capacity of less than 70kWh and a range on the Chinese NEDC test cycle of more than 500km (311 miles).
Smart has also suggested that the production version of the #Concept 1 will eventually pave the way for further models in the small- and compact-car segment.
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