Sneak Peek at smart’s Coming eSUV

Paul Myles

TU-Editor

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21st May 2021

The first official sneak peek pictures of the forthcoming smart-brand all electric SUV have been published three months ahead of its world premiere at the IAA Mobility 2021.

The September automotive mobility show in Munich will see the unveiling of the smart eSUV as the first concept from smart Automobile, a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely.

While the choice of powertrain may not be a surprise, the prospects for the brand entering the niche ultra compact all-terrain market, so far the preserve of specialist agri-sports 4x4s or even the Fiat Panda and the Suzuki Jimny, may seem an odd decision. The brand says it knows this is new territory but hopes to bring its own unique approach, albeit without the advantage of any USP in terms of powertrain.

The car will be targeted the brand’s existing customer base of young singles and families who want to remain urban avant-garde trendsetters. It’s based on Geely’s modular sustainable experience architecture (SEA) platform. Design of the user interface claims to feature “unique and even extravagant elements”. Among those are details such as concealed door handles, illuminated elements and a large panoramic roof. It hopes to be a mobile tech device, with features such as voice control and a seamless digital key as standard on every vehicle.

Gorden Wagener, chief design officer for the Daimler Group, said: “We took this great opportunity to restart the brand, and our eSUV concept embodies all of the new DNA of smart. It’s a visionary approach that creates a new identity for the brand. More beautiful, sportier and of course, much cooler than before. Icons like this concept have all the potential to turn smart into a leading design brand.”

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_