The electric drive version of the current smart range is now on sale, with prices starting from £16,420 for the two-seater smart fortwo electric drive (including OLEV grant of £4,500; total price £20,920 excluding grant). The four-door forfour electric drive is £16,915 (£21,415 excluding grant), and the fortwo cabriolet electric drive starts at £18,650 (£23,060 excluding grant). This makes smart the only brand that offers all its models with either combustion engines or fully electric drivetrains.
The smart electric drive features an 81 hp electric motor powering the rear wheels via a single-speed gearbox. The electric drive has a range of up to 100 miles, while its maximum speed is electronically limited to 80 mph to maximise the range. The standard 7 kW on-board charger means the smart electric drive can be charged in 2.5 hours using a 16 A charger or six hours via a standard three-pin household socket (20 per cent to 100 per cent). All models have a top speed of 81 mph and can travel from 0 to 62 mph in 11.5 seconds.
Specification is based on the prime model, which includes heated front seats, cruise control, leather upholstery and 15-inch alloy wheels. Every electric drive model also comes with charging cables for both domestic sockets and public charging stations; rear parking sensors; smart media system with satellite navigation; and an acoustic ambient sound generator. The sound generator creates an artificial engine sound when the vehicle is moving at low speeds to make its presence known to pedestrians and other road users.
For just £595 customers can add the premium plus equipment line, which includes ambient lighting; centre armrest; LED headlights and tail lights; front fog lamps; automatic lights and wipers; and rear view camera.
The electric drive design package is available from £595 and adds a tridion cell and mirror caps in electric green; body panels in either black or white with matching grille; 16-inch alloys; and ‘ED’ decals in grey.
A heated steering wheel, heated rear seats (forfour only) and additional door and cockpit insulation are part of the winter package, which costs £295 on fortwo models and £495 on the forfour.
Customers can also access the smart control app, which allows the user to view the vehicle’s charging status, and pre-set the climate control via a smartphone.
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One Response
I recently came across your article discussing the new Smart Electric Drive, and I must say, it’s exciting to see the continued development and affordability of electric vehicles (EVs). The introduction of the Smart Electric Drive at a starting price of £16,420 demonstrates the growing accessibility of electric mobility.
Affordability has been one of the key factors influencing the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. With the Smart Electric Drive’s competitive price point, it becomes an attractive option for individuals looking to transition to electric transportation without breaking the bank. This not only expands the market for EVs but also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality.
The Smart Electric Drive’s compact size and nimble maneuverability make it particularly suitable for urban environments where space is limited. As cities continue to prioritize sustainable transportation solutions, vehicles like the Smart Electric Drive offer an efficient and eco-friendly option for commuting and navigating urban landscapes.
Moreover, the benefits of electric vehicles extend beyond affordability and environmental impact. Electric drivetrains offer smooth and quiet operation, along with instant torque, delivering a unique and enjoyable driving experience. Additionally, the lower maintenance costs associated with EVs, compared to traditional internal combustion engines, can provide long-term financial savings for owners.
The increasing availability of affordable electric vehicles, such as the Smart Electric Drive, is a positive sign of the ongoing electrification of the automotive industry. As technology advances and economies of scale improve, we can expect to see further price reductions and enhancements in EV performance, ultimately making electric transportation more accessible to a wider range of consumers.
Thank you for highlighting the launch of the Smart Electric Drive and its competitive price point. Such developments contribute to the overall growth of the electric vehicle market and drive us closer to a more sustainable and cleaner transportation future.