Concept #1, precursor of the new

Presented at the IAA Mobility motor show in Munich, the all-electric SUV concept takes Smart into the segment of ecological compact cars with advanced technology on board. The last-born of the pioneering urban mobility brand created a sensation in Bavaria. Avant-garde design and premium equipment…

It is evident at first glance that this model, painted glossy white, belongs to the Smart family. Yet, paradoxically, its design is a clear statement of the brand’s transformation.

Well-balanced proportions, short overhangs and a large, panoramic glass roof with an hypnotic ring of light endow the concept with personality and visual impact. The windscreen and windows of the frameless doors give an impression of lightness, as if the roof were floating above the body.

The concealed door handles are simply indicated by light signals. The futuristic interior is elegantly streamlined. And a 12.8-inch 3D screen forms the nerve centre of the Concept #1.

The concealed door handles are simply indicated by light signals. The futuristic interior is elegantly streamlined. And a 12.8-inch 3D screen forms the nerve centre of the Concept #1.

The concealed door handles are simply indicated by light signals. The futuristic interior is elegantly streamlined. And a 12.8-inch 3D screen forms the nerve centre of the Concept #1.

The concealed door handles are simply indicated by light signals. The futuristic interior is elegantly streamlined. And a 12.8-inch 3D screen forms the nerve centre of the Concept #1.

The concealed door handles are simply indicated by light signals. The futuristic interior is elegantly streamlined. And a 12.8-inch 3D screen forms the nerve centre of the Concept #1.

The concealed door handles are simply indicated by light signals. The futuristic interior is elegantly streamlined. And a 12.8-inch 3D screen forms the nerve centre of the Concept #1.

The Concept #1 from Smart offers clean lines and a silhouette marked by energetic short overhangs.

The Concept #1 from Smart offers clean lines and a silhouette marked by energetic short overhangs.

Attesting to a fully dedicated innovative approach, strips of LED light surround the front and rear of the car, perched on large 21-inch wheels. Inside the passenger compartment, the feeling of spaciousness and comfort proves to be real. The rear doors are hinged at the back and open in the opposite direction to those at the front, allowing for simultaneous opening of the doors giving a 180° view of the interior.

Dynamic handling and passive safety are keywords for the smart car. Long battery life and fast charging, software updated via the cloud, cutting-edge infotainment features and driver assistance systems are all on the programme.

A central computer in fact controls the infotainment, provides driver assistance, electromobility, and electric/electronic vehicle architecture. Assistants are right on hand : for parking, evasive steering, motorway driving and emergency lanes. A virtual companion constantly learns from the driver’s behaviour and adapts in time to his/her preferences. New sustainable mobility is well on its way.