Smart has revealed its latest mid-size crossover, the #5, which is gearing up to compete on a global scale against established brands starting next year. The unveiling took place in Byron Bay, Australia, generating significant excitement.
This spring, attendees at Auto China in Beijing got their first glimpse of the near-production model. Smart has now delivered on its earlier announcements, with the production version expected to launch in the European market in the first quarter of 2025. The Smart #5 represents a significant departure for the Chinese-German electric car manufacturer, venturing into larger dimensions that were previously unexplored under its former brand. With a length of 4.71 meters, the electric crossover sits above the existing Smart models, #1 and #3, and aims to attract a new audience, challenging not just mainstream brands but also German premium competitors for the first time. Dirk Adelmann, CEO of Smart Europe, stated, “With this new vehicle, we are branching out into a new market segment, showcasing our commitment to quality, innovation, and the evolving needs of our customers. As we broaden our product lineup, we remain dedicated to providing diverse mobility solutions that meet various lifestyles and preferences in Europe and beyond.”
The design closely mirrors the concept showcased in Beijing, offering unprecedented space for a Smart vehicle, thanks to its unique length and a 2.90-meter wheelbase. While Smart has not disclosed full technical details, it is anticipated that the #5 will offer multiple power options, ranging from 250 kW (340 PS) to 475 kW (646 PS), with a top speed expected to exceed 200 km/h. Customers will have the choice between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, as the sizable battery holds a capacity of 100 kWh, allowing for ranges of up to 600 kilometers. The vehicle is built on the Geely platform and incorporates an 800-volt electrical system for quicker charging times.
The interior accommodates up to five passengers and features an almost seamless instrument cluster that includes a 25.6-inch head-up display alongside two 13-inch screens and one 10-inch screen. A generative AI voice assistant enables the driver to quickly obtain accurate answers to a range of questions. Coupled with intelligent Smart avatars, drivers can manage vital functions such as making calls, sending messages, playing music, and adjusting climate control using only their voice.
For additional enjoyment, a lion avatar named Leo is available to help navigate the system if desired. For those who appreciate in-car audio, the vehicle features a 2,000-watt Sennheiser sound system, complete with speakers that illuminate to the rhythm of the music. In terms of storage, the car provides up to 1,530 liters of boot space, along with a 72-liter “frunk” under the front hood and over 30 storage compartments inside. Kai Sieber, Head of Smart Design, remarked, “The #5 is a very special project for us. It signifies a new era in Smart’s dedication to premium design that defies boundaries and embraces an open mindset. We adhere to our design philosophy of ‘Love, Pure, and Unexpected,’ further enhancing the concept of ‘Pure’ into an authentic mid-size SUV design.”
155-Character Meta Description: “Smart debuts the #5, a new mid-size electric crossover. Competing globally from 2025, it blends innovative design with advanced tech and ample space.”
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