FYI: Smart unveils its largest model yet, the Smart #5 electric crossover, directly challenging heavyweights like the Tesla Model Y.
Smart #5: The Brand’s Bold Leap into the Electric Crossover Arena
Smart is making a substantial evolution away from its compact car origins with the introduction of the Smart #5. This fully electric crossover is the largest vehicle ever produced by the brand, targeting competitors such as the Tesla Model Y.
A New Contender in the Crossover Segment
With a total length of 185 inches, the Smart #5 nearly matches the dimensions of Tesla’s globally popular Model Y. Given the fierce competition in the electric crossover market, including formidable offerings from Hyundai, Kia, Volkswagen, and Ford, the #5 needs to offer something special to capture consumer interest.
Notably, the design of the #5 aligns closely with what Smart previously showcased in the #5 Concept. It maintains an upright, traditional SUV silhouette similar to the slightly smaller Mercedes-Benz EQB.
Designed for Adventure
Marketed as an electric family crossover for those who love the great outdoors, the Smart #5 offers an Adventurers’ Collection pack. This package includes features such as a roof light bar, underbody protection, a roof carrier, side steps, and a side ladder. Although these additions give the vehicle an adventurous look, they do not come with increased ground clearance or enhanced off-road capabilities.
Technologically Advanced Interior
Smart emphasizes the #5’s spacious and technologically rich interior. It boasts 34 different storage compartments, including a 2.5 cubic-foot front trunk and up to 54 cubic feet of storage space with the rear seats folded down. The interior’s standout feature is the massive 25.6-inch augmented reality head-up display, paired with a 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster and two high-resolution 13-inch AMOLED displays, one positioned for the front passenger.
The infotainment system harnesses the power of Unreal Engine for seamless and impressive animations, supported by an AMD V2000 eight-core integrated CPU and GPU, which are commonly used in both mini PCs and automotive applications.
Impressive Charging and Range
Built on an 800-volt platform, the Smart #5 allows rapid charging, boosting its 100-kilowatt-hour battery from 10% to 80% in just 15 minutes. While the official range is cited as 460 miles on the Chinese CLTC test cycle, more realistic expectations place it between 300 to 320 miles in real-world conditions.
Powertrain Specifications
While full powertrain specifics are not yet disclosed, entry-level models will feature a single rear-wheel-drive motor generating either 335 or 358 horsepower. An all-wheel-drive variant with dual motors will offer 579 horsepower, and the high-end Brabus model will enhance this dual-motor setup to provide a remarkable 638 horsepower.
Global Availability and Pricing
Manufactured in China, the Smart #5 will launch there first, with European availability slated for 2025. However, potential increased import duties on Chinese-manufactured vehicles could drive up prices in Europe, possibly making locally produced alternatives more attractive.
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William Kouch, Editor, Automotive.fyi
