Introducing Smart #5: Large e-SUV with 800-volt platform

The current models, which now come from China, no longer have anything to do with the original idea behind the Smart brand. Instead of a particularly small vehicle, Smart now offers two similarly designed electric cars, #1 and #3, which at around 4.3 m in length are where many buyers are looking for a car. With the #5, which is now being shown as a production car for the first time, the brand is moving into even higher spheres – and not just in terms of size.

With a width of 1.92 m and a length of 4.71 m, the #5 is about as long as a Tesla Model Y or a Mercedes EQB. A wheelbase of 2.9 m should provide plenty of space in the interior. The trunk should hold up to 1530  liters. The dashboard differs significantly from the smaller models. Three displays extend across almost the entire width, with the two on the right measuring 13  inches diagonally. The optional sound system from Sennheiser has an amplifier output of 2 kW. It is to be hoped that Smart will take a big step forward with the software, as this was truly not a convincing performance in the #1 that we had in the editorial office.

Smart in the test

Elektroauto Smart #1 Brabus im Test: Schneller als die meisten Porsche

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Erste Ausfahrt im Smart #3​: Gewachsen ohne einzuholen

Four drives, two batteries

The #5 clearly sets itself apart from the shorter Smart models in terms of its drive system. It also uses a platform from Geely, but this time with a voltage level of 800 volts. This promises at least potentially significantly higher charging performance. Smart is still holding back on technical data, but a few details have already been leaked. Two batteries are planned. The base model will have a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cell chemistry, the energy content of which is still a secret. The larger 100 kWh battery is based on a material mix of nickel, manganese and cobalt. With this storage system, a range of up to 549 km should be possible in the WLTP. According to Auto, Motor und Sport, four drive systems are planned:

Launch and price uncertain

There is still no information on prices. We expect the base model to cost less than 50,000 euros. Sales in Europe are due to start next year – It is not yet clear exactly when.

(mfz)