Smart, the company known for its compact vehicles, has announced a return to its roots with the introduction of the Smart #2, a new two-seat electric minicar set to launch in 2026. Designed by Mercedes-Benz and manufactured in China, this model aims to reinvigorate the brand’s identity and appeal to urban drivers.
Revitalizing the Minicar Segment
The Smart #2 is being developed on a new vehicle platform specifically tailored for ultra-compact minicars, differing from the existing models in the Smart lineup, which include the #1, #3, and #5. Tong Xiangbei, the global CEO of Smart, emphasized the challenges of creating a new model and architecture for a small car, stating that it requires more complexity than designing larger vehicles. This dedication to innovation signals Smart’s commitment to re-entering the minicar market.
Smart began as a budget-friendly minicar brand, a concept initially proposed by the watch company Swatch. Over the years, ownership changes, including a significant investment from China’s Geely, shifted its focus toward a premium market. This transformation led to a departure from its original compact models, which were once lauded for their parkability and convenience.
Design and Features
While details about the Smart #2 remain limited, preview images suggest a vehicle designed for city living. The promotional material features a parking space specifically marked for the #2, indicating its compact dimensions. The silhouette of the car aligns with the classic shape of previous Smart models, hinting at the same legendary maneuverability that characterized earlier iterations.
This new electric vehicle is currently in its final design and testing phases, with plans for a late 2026 launch. The Smart #2 will primarily target markets in China and Europe, with potential availability in other unspecified global markets. Although it is uncertain whether the Smart #2 will return to the U.S. market, its predecessors struggled to gain traction there, ultimately leading to Smart’s exit in 2019.
The introduction of the Smart #2 comes with the backdrop of the brand’s evolution into an electric-only entity, particularly under its new Chinese ownership. Previous models, such as the Smart Electric Drive, were launched as early as 2007, with the U.S. market seeing it in 2011. The last generation of Smart vehicles had limitations due to their short wheelbase, which restricted battery capacity and range.
As Smart prepares to unveil this new electric model, consumers in Europe and beyond may find the return of a compact, two-door vehicle appealing. The Smart #2 aims to capture the essence of its predecessors while embracing modern electric vehicle technology. For those eager to see how Smart reinvents itself, the wait for the #2 will soon begin.
