The production version of Smart’s smallest model, the #2 electric city car, has surfaced in Chinese regulatory filings, signaling its imminent global debut and a likely arrival in Australia.
Regulatory filings reveal key details
Documents submitted to China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology outline the #2’s dimensions, powertrain, and specifications. The two-seater measures either 2,751mm or 2,764mm in length, depending on configuration, with a width of 1,669mm and height of 1,555mm. Its 1,875mm wheelbase is unusually short, reinforcing its urban-focused design.
At 1,130kg, the car is significantly smaller than the Smart #1 currently sold in Australia, which stretches to 4,270mm. The brand’s return to compact dimensions revives the original Fortwo formula, emphasizing ease of driving in congested cities.
Power comes from a rear-mounted 60kW electric motor supplied by Geely’s InfiMotion, delivering a claimed top speed of 140km/h. The battery uses lithium iron phosphate cells from CATL, assembled into a pack by Geely’s Energee subsidiary. Chinese reports suggest a 35.7kWh battery, offering roughly 300km of range under the CLTC testing standard.
A return to Smart’s roots
The #2 marks a shift from Smart’s recent strategy, which has focused on larger vehicles like the #1 and #3 crossovers and the #5 SUV. The joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely, formed in 2019, expanded the lineup beyond the original Fortwo’s urban niche. Yet the new model’s design reflects that compact, two-seat concept, tailored for dense city environments.
Related: How to Build a Complete Auto News Strategy
Development responsibilities are divided between the two parent companies. Mercedes-Benz handles exterior and interior design, while Geely manages engineering and production in China. Despite its smaller size, the car will include technology from its larger siblings.
Exterior options include black, body-colored, and hard-roof configurations, allowing for some customization. The model will debut at the Paris Motor Show in October, with sales beginning in China and Europe shortly after.
Australian availability remains unconfirmed, but Smart has included Melbourne in its international marketing campaign. Local reports indicate a 2027 launch is likely, matching the brand’s growing presence in the market. Smart returned to Australia in 2024 after a nearly decade-long absence, initially offering the #1 and #3 SUVs. The original Fortwo was sold locally until 2015, when low sales led to its discontinuation.
If introduced in Australia, the #2 would sit below the #1 in Smart’s lineup, providing a more affordable option. Its smaller size and simpler powertrain could appeal to city drivers. Market reception will depend on whether buyers still favor ultra-compact models.
The filings confirm the #2 is real, and its global rollout is underway. The Paris debut will show how Smart blends its heritage with modern demands.
