Smart Fortwo
The Smart Fortwo (stylized as "smart fortwo") is a two-seater, rear-engine city car manufactured by Smart, a division of Mercedes-Benz Group, from 1998 to 2024, renowned for its ultra-compact dimensions—measuring just 2.69 meters in length—designed specifically for efficient urban parking and maneuverability.[1] Featuring a distinctive Tridion safety cell with interchangeable plastic body panels, the Fortwo emphasized innovative, sustainable mobility in congested city environments, with production exceeding 2.5 million units across three generations at the Hambach plant in France.[2] Its rear-wheel-drive layout and tight turning radius of 6.95 meters made it ideal for narrow streets, while engine options evolved from initial 0.6-liter and 0.8-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline units producing 45–61 hp to later electric variants under the EQ branding with 60 kW (82 hp) and a 17.6 kWh battery offering up to 160 km of range.[3] Production ceased in March 2024, marking the end of the model's 26-year run, though a spiritual successor, the all-electric smart #2, is slated for launch in late 2026.[4] The origins of the Smart Fortwo trace back to a 1972 Daimler-Benz concept for a minimalist short-distance vehicle, evolving through the 1981 NAFA prototype and culminating in a 1994 joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Swatch Group founder Nicholas Hayek to create an affordable, eco-friendly urban car.[1] Unveiled as the Smart City-Coupé at the 1997 Frankfurt Motor Show, it entered production in 1998 with a focus on modularity and low emissions, initially powered by a rear-mounted, water-cooled Mercedes-Benz engine and a semi-automatic transmission.[3] The first generation (1998–2007) introduced a cabriolet variant in 2000 and underwent facelifts in 2003 and 2006, emphasizing safety with the rigid Tridion steel frame that protected occupants in crashes.[1] Subsequent generations refined the Fortwo's formula: the second (2007–2014) added a 1.0-liter naturally aspirated engine option and improved interior space, while the third (2014–2024), co-developed with Renault, incorporated a twin-clutch automated manual transmission and enhanced aerodynamics for better fuel efficiency up to 4.4 L/100 km.[3] From 2007 onward, electric versions were tested, leading to the full-electric smart EQ fortwo in 2017, which featured regenerative braking and a top speed of 130 km/h.[1] Marketed globally through Mercedes-Benz dealerships, the Fortwo achieved cult status for its quirky design and practicality, particularly in Europe and North America, though sales declined in later years amid shifting preferences toward SUVs.[2]History
Origins and development
The Smart Fortwo originated from a vision conceived in the early 1990s by Nicolas Hayek, the founder of the Swatch watch company, who sought to apply principles of modular design, affordability, and miniaturization from watchmaking to create an ultra-compact urban vehicle often dubbed the "Swatchmobile."[5][6] Hayek aimed for a two-seater microcar that would revolutionize city mobility by being smaller and more efficient than existing small cars, initially envisioning electric or hybrid propulsion to emphasize environmental sustainability.[7] This idea gained traction after Hayek's unsuccessful early discussions with Volkswagen, which were abandoned in 1993 under the direction of Ferdinand Piëch due to strategic differences.[6] In 1994, Hayek partnered with Daimler-Benz to advance the project, forming Micro Compact Car AG (MCC) as a joint venture with Daimler holding a 51% stake and Hayek's Swatch Group (SMH) owning 49%.[5][7] The collaboration leveraged Daimler's engineering expertise while incorporating Swatch's innovative manufacturing techniques, though tensions arose over powertrain choices—Hayek favored electric motors, while Daimler pushed for conventional engines.[6] Swatch eventually withdrew from the venture in the late 1990s amid slower-than-expected progress and market challenges, leaving MCC as a wholly owned subsidiary of Daimler (later DaimlerChrysler).[5] The "smart" name emerged as an acronym for Swatch Mercedes Art, symbolizing the fusion of creativity and automotive engineering.[1] Core design goals centered on achieving an ultra-compact footprint under 3 meters in length to facilitate easy urban parking and maneuverability, paired with an automated manual transmission for simplicity and efficiency, and lightweight plastic body panels over a rigid steel safety cell to minimize weight while enhancing crash protection.[6][7] Development from 1994 to 1998 involved extensive prototyping and testing, including early concepts like the Eco-Speedster and Eco-Sprinter unveiled in 1994, which explored electric and hybrid variants.[6] The eco2000 concept, revealed in 1996 at events such as the Atlanta and Paris motor shows, showcased the envisioned eco-friendly city car with modular components and a focus on sustainability, though safety testing—such as a dramatic 1997 moose avoidance rollover—necessitated redesigns to meet European standards.[6] Initial production was established at the purpose-built Smartville facility in Hambach, France, selected in 1994 for its logistical advantages and incentives; the plant opened in 1997 with a capacity for 200,000 units annually, and full-scale manufacturing of the Smart City-Coupé (later renamed Fortwo) commenced in 1998.[7][1] This setup marked the transition from concept to reality, with the first vehicles rolling off the line on October 27, 1997, ahead of public sales later that year.[6]Production timeline
Production of the Smart Fortwo began in 1998 at the dedicated Hambach plant (Smartville) in France, which was designed with an annual capacity of 200,000 units.[8] The facility, spanning 68 hectares and incorporating a "factory within a factory" concept with on-site suppliers, enabled efficient modular assembly from the outset.[9] The first generation (450 series) ran until 2007, with approximately 770,000 units produced during its nearly decade-long run.[10] Production transitioned to the second generation (451 series) in 2007, featuring updated assembly lines to accommodate refined manufacturing processes and increased model variants, including initial limited electric drive models starting in 2009.[11] In 2014, manufacturing shifted to the third generation (453 series) at the same Hambach facility, with production of the fully electric smart EQ fortwo commencing in 2017 following expansions to support battery integration and higher electrification volumes.[12] The plant underwent further adaptations, including a 2020 acquisition by INEOS Automotive, under which Smart continued contract manufacturing until the Fortwo's discontinuation.[13] By the end of production on March 28, 2024, the Hambach plant had assembled over 2.5 million Smart Fortwo units across all generations, though actual output averaged less than 100,000 annually due to fluctuating demand.[2] Following the cessation, Smart's 50/50 joint venture with Geely has confirmed the smart #2, a two-seater electric city car successor to the Fortwo, for launch in late 2026 in selected global markets including China and Europe.[4]Design and engineering
Body and chassis
The Smart Fortwo's body and chassis are centered around the innovative Tridion safety cell, a high-strength steel skeleton that forms the structural core of the vehicle, providing exceptional crash protection while enabling a lightweight design with curb weights ranging from about 730 kg in early models to around 940 kg in later gasoline variants. This cell, composed of up to 75% high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel, absorbs impact forces in collisions and maintains occupant space integrity, equivalent to that of larger vehicles despite the Fortwo's compact size. The outer body panels, made from dent-resistant thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) plastic, attach to the Tridion frame, contributing to the car's low weight, corrosion resistance, and ease of repair by allowing panels to be replaced individually without affecting the underlying structure.[14][15][16] Dimensional characteristics emphasize the Fortwo's urban-oriented compactness, with the first generation (450 series) measuring 2.50 meters in length, 1.515 meters in width, and 1.549 meters in height. Subsequent generations maintained a similar profile but grew slightly for improved stability: the second generation (451 series) extended to 2.695 meters in length, 1.559 meters in width, and 1.542 meters in height, while later models like the 2017 version refined to 2.695 meters long, 1.663 meters wide, and 1.554 meters tall. These proportions, combined with a short wheelbase of around 1.87 meters, facilitate tight turning radii under 8 meters, ideal for city navigation.[17][18][14] The rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout positions the powertrain over the rear axle, achieving near 50/50 weight distribution for enhanced traction and handling balance, particularly in varied urban conditions. Over generations, chassis rigidity evolved through reinforcements to the Tridion cell and body integration, while suspension tuning—featuring MacPherson struts up front and a De Dion axle at the rear—prioritized agile response and nimble cornering, with updates in the second generation focusing on balanced interaction between chassis, suspension, and steering for superior city driving dynamics.[19][20]Powertrain and transmissions
The Smart Fortwo employs a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, which contributes to its compact footprint and agile handling in urban environments. This configuration positions the powertrain components at the rear, freeing up interior space while delivering power directly to the rear wheels for efficient traction.[3] Power comes from compact three-cylinder engines co-developed with Mercedes-Benz, primarily petrol variants with displacements ranging from 0.6 L to 1.0 L, alongside diesel options in select markets and electric motors in later iterations. These engines feature electronic multi-point fuel injection for petrol models and common-rail direct injection for diesels, ensuring precise fuel delivery and combustion efficiency. For instance, the 1.0 L turbocharged petrol unit uses an aluminum-alloy block with a 10.5:1 compression ratio and dual overhead camshafts with four valves per cylinder.[21][3] The design emphasizes low-end torque delivery, aided by turbocharging in many variants, to provide responsive acceleration from standstill—ideal for stop-and-go city traffic—without relying on high-revving performance.[21] Transmission options center on automated manual systems to simplify operation in a pedal-free cabin. Introduced with the first generation in 1998, the Softouch automated manual transmission is a sequential gearbox (initially six-speed) controlled by electro-hydraulic actuators for clutch engagement and gear selection, allowing drivers to choose fully automatic shifting or manual paddle/lever inputs without a clutch pedal. This single-clutch dry-plate setup evolved in subsequent models to a five-speed version for smoother urban operation, and later to the twinamic six-speed dual-clutch automatic in the third generation, which eliminates torque interruption during shifts for more seamless power delivery.[22][21] The drivetrain remains rear-wheel drive across all variants, promoting balanced weight distribution with the engine over the rear axle. In the second generation, a micro-hybrid drive (MHD) system was introduced as an option, integrating a belt-driven starter-generator for start-stop functionality and energy recuperation, enhancing fuel efficiency in low-speed scenarios without full electrification.[3] Emissions compliance progressed with model updates, meeting Euro 4 standards from the mid-2000s (e.g., in the cdi diesel variant with low CO2 output) and advancing to Euro 5 and 6 in later petrol and diesel engines through refined injection and catalytic converter technologies. Electric variants achieve zero tailpipe emissions.[23][3]Safety features
The Smart Fortwo's core safety engineering centers on the Tridion safety cell, a rigid structure made of high-strength steel that encases the passenger compartment and distributes crash impact energy across its entire width to minimize intrusion and protect occupants.[24][25] This design acts like the hard shell of a nut, channeling forces away from the cabin while deformable plastic and composite body panels absorb initial energy in collisions.[26] The first-generation Fortwo (450 series) earned a four-star overall rating in the 2000 Euro NCAP crash tests, reflecting the Tridion cell's effectiveness in frontal and side impacts. Similarly, the second-generation Fortwo (451 series) received a four-star Euro NCAP rating in 2007, with strong adult occupant protection scores due to the cell's stability in offset deformable barrier and side barrier tests. The third-generation Fortwo (453 series) also received a four-star Euro NCAP rating in 2014.[27][28] The Fortwo's airbag systems evolved across generations to enhance occupant restraint. The first generation featured standard dual front airbags for driver and passenger protection in frontal crashes. In the second generation, side airbags were added for thoracic protection in lateral impacts, while knee airbags for both driver and passenger were introduced to reduce lower-leg injuries by limiting femur and pelvis movement during deceleration.[29] Later models in the 451 series also incorporated window curtain airbags to mitigate head injuries in rollovers and side collisions.[30] Active safety technologies were integrated starting with the second generation to improve vehicle control. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents wheel lockup during emergency stops, maintaining steering responsiveness on varied surfaces.[31] Electronic stability program (ESP), also introduced in the 451 series, uses sensors to detect skidding and selectively applies brakes to individual wheels while adjusting engine power to help prevent loss of traction.[32] For external safety, the Fortwo complies with pedestrian impact regulations through a deformable front-end design that reduces injury risk in low-speed collisions. The bonnet and bumper incorporate energy-absorbing materials to cushion head and leg strikes, though Euro NCAP assessments noted marginal protection for adult pedestrians in some areas.[33] A reinforced underbody, utilizing high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel at over 50 strategic points, further bolsters structural integrity against ground impacts and enhances overall crash energy management.[34] Independent crash test results from U.S. agencies underscore the Fortwo's protective capabilities relative to its size. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2013 Fortwo Electric Drive four stars overall, with four stars in frontal crash and rollover tests but three stars in the side pole impact.[35] The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2008 Fortwo its highest "Good" rating for moderate overlap frontal and side crashworthiness, highlighting low risk of head and chest injuries.[36] These ratings demonstrate effective occupant protection despite the vehicle's compact dimensions.[37]Maneuverability and parking
The Smart Fortwo's maneuverability is a defining characteristic, optimized for congested urban settings through its diminutive footprint and agile handling dynamics. Across generations, the vehicle's turning circle has been exceptionally tight, measuring 8.75 meters kerb-to-kerb in the first and second generations, which facilitates sharp turns and easy navigation in narrow alleys. The third generation further refined this to 6.95 meters (22.8 feet curb-to-curb), establishing a benchmark for production cars and enabling U-turns in spaces as small as a standard parking bay.[38][39][40] This design emphasis extends to parking, where the Fortwo's overall length of approximately 2.69 meters allows it to occupy minimal space, often fitting into parallel spots intended for larger vehicles with straightforward forward or minimal reverse maneuvers. The quick steering ratio, around 22:1 in early models, supports precise control for aligning the vehicle at acute angles during entry, reducing the need for multiple adjustments. Some early electric prototypes incorporated rear-wheel steering to enhance low-speed agility for such tasks, though this remained experimental and absent from production variants.[41][42] Advanced driver aids further bolster parking ease, particularly in later iterations. Ultrasonic parking sensors became standard on models like the 2017 Fortwo, alerting drivers to obstacles during reverse maneuvers, while optional rearview cameras provided direct visibility. The third generation introduced more comprehensive systems, including enhanced camera integration for better spatial awareness in confined areas. Additionally, the Fortwo's low center of gravity—achieved via the rear-engine layout and, in electric models, a floor-mounted battery—ensures stability during tight turns and parking, minimizing body roll for confident handling.[43][44][45]First generation (450 series; 1998–2007)
Engines and performance
The first-generation Smart Fortwo (450 series) was equipped with a range of compact three-cylinder engines developed by Mercedes-Benz, emphasizing efficiency and low-end torque suitable for urban driving. These included naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol variants, as well as a diesel option, all rear-mounted and driving the rear wheels via a five-speed automated manual transmission. Power outputs ranged from 41 to 75 hp (including the Brabus tuned variant), with torque between 70 and 110 Nm delivered primarily at low rpm for responsive acceleration in city conditions.[46] Petrol engines consisted of a 0.6-liter (599 cc) naturally aspirated unit producing 45 hp at 5,250 rpm and 70 Nm at 3,000 rpm, offering basic performance with a 0-100 km/h time of approximately 16.5 seconds and a top speed of 135 km/h. A more refined 0.7-liter (698 cc) naturally aspirated version followed, delivering 50 hp at 5,250 rpm and 80 Nm from 1,800 rpm, achieving 0-100 km/h in 18.3 seconds while maintaining the same top speed. The turbocharged 0.7-liter variant, also 698 cc, boosted output to 61 hp at 5,250 rpm and 95 Nm from 2,000 rpm, improving acceleration to 15.5 seconds for 0-100 km/h without exceeding 135 km/h top speed. The Brabus tuned version of the 0.7-liter turbo increased power to 75 hp at 5,250 rpm and 110 Nm from 2,000 rpm, with 0-100 km/h in 13.3 seconds and the same top speed. Fuel economy across these petrol engines averaged 4.6–4.7 L/100 km combined, contributing to their appeal for fuel-conscious urban commuters.[47][48][49][50][51] The diesel engine, a 0.8-liter (799 cc) turbocharged CDI unit, provided 41 hp at 4,200 rpm and a strong 100 Nm from 1,800 rpm, prioritizing torque for effortless low-speed maneuvers with a 0-100 km/h time of 19.8 seconds and top speed of 135 km/h. It achieved superior fuel economy of 3.8 L/100 km combined, making it particularly popular in Europe where diesel incentives were common. Emissions varied by market and tuning; for instance, the petrol turbo model emitted around 113 g/km CO₂, while the diesel was lower at 90 g/km, aligning with early Euro 3 standards in compliant regions. The CDI was briefly offered and discontinued after 2006 due to stricter emissions regulations.[52][53]| Engine Type | Displacement | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | 0-100 km/h (s) | Top Speed (km/h) | Fuel Economy (L/100 km combined) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.6L Petrol NA | 599 cc | 45 | 70 | ~16.5 | 135 | 4.6 |
| 0.7L Petrol NA | 698 cc | 50 | 80 | 18.3 | 135 | 4.7 |
| 0.7L Petrol Turbo | 698 cc | 61 | 95 | 15.5 | 135 | 4.7 |
| 0.7L Petrol Turbo Brabus | 698 cc | 75 | 110 | 13.3 | 135 | 4.9 |
| 0.8L Diesel Turbo | 799 cc | 41 | 100 | 19.8 | 135 | 3.8 |
Models and variants
The first generation Smart Fortwo (450 series) was primarily offered as a two-door coupe hatchback with tandem seating for two adults, providing a compact interior layout optimized for urban use and a cargo capacity of 150 liters behind the rear seat. An optional panoramic glass roof was available on select trims, allowing for greater natural light and an enhanced sense of space within the cabin. The lineup included three main trim levels: Pure, Pulse, and Passion. The entry-level Pure featured essential equipment such as remote central locking, twin front airbags, traction control, and electric front windows, paired with a basic audio system. The mid-level Pulse added sportier styling elements including fog lights, paddle-shift gear selection, and wider alloy wheels, while maintaining the core features of the Pure. The top Passion trim elevated comfort with standard air conditioning, 15-inch alloy wheels, and an upgraded audio system with CD player. In 2000, Smart introduced the Cabriolet variant, which retained the coupe's tandem seating and trim structure but incorporated a manually operated fabric roof that could be fully retracted for open-top driving. The Cabriolet offered the same optional panoramic roof elements adapted for its design. Limited editions expanded the core models with distinctive aesthetics, such as the 2006 edition limited one, which featured exclusive silver metallic paint and unique interior trims in coupe form only. These variants highlighted special color schemes and bespoke upholstery to appeal to enthusiasts.Special editions
The Smart Crossblade, launched in 2002 as a limited-edition variant of the first-generation Fortwo City Cabrio, featured an extreme open-air roadster design without doors, roof, or windshield, relying instead on a small deflector for wind protection and emphasizing playful urban mobility over conventional practicality. Built on the Fortwo's Tridion safety cell, it retained the model's compact dimensions while offering a distinctive, helmet-like aesthetic for two occupants. Approximately 2,000 units were produced through 2003, making it one of the rarest Fortwo derivatives.[54][55][56] Several Fortwo exclusives drew from fashion influences, notably the Swatch collaboration that inspired the model's origins, enabling custom paint schemes and interchangeable body panels for personalized themes reminiscent of Swatch watch designs. Examples include black-themed limited runs like the Scratch Black Edition on the Pulse trim, which featured matte black exteriors and coordinated interiors for a sleek, modern look targeted at style-conscious urban drivers. These variants often incorporated unique upholstery and trim options, reflecting the brand's fusion of automotive and accessory aesthetics.[57][58] While some concepts previewed the upcoming Forfour model, Fortwo-focused specials like the Edition Black maintained exclusivity through restricted runs and bespoke detailing. Overall production of first-generation special editions remained modest, contributing to their rising collector appeal; well-preserved examples, particularly the Crossblade, now command premiums at auctions, often exceeding $10,000 due to scarcity and nostalgic value in the microcar segment.[59]Second generation (451 series; 2007–2014)
Design updates
The second-generation Smart Fortwo (451 series), introduced in 2007, featured several aesthetic and structural refinements compared to the first-generation model (450 series). The overall length increased to 2.695 meters from 2.50 meters, while the wheelbase extended to 1.867 meters from 1.812 meters, providing slightly more interior space without compromising the car's compact footprint.[60][61] These dimensional changes contributed to a more proportionate appearance, with the exterior retaining the signature Tridion safety cell in black or silver, complemented by interchangeable body panels in various colors for customization. The front fascia was redesigned with a more sculpted bumper and integrated air intake, enhancing the modern, rounded aesthetic, while optional LED daytime running lights became available in later models.[62] Interior updates emphasized improved quality and ergonomics, with higher-grade plastics and refined color schemes replacing the more basic materials of the predecessor. Aluminum accent trim on air vents and door handles added a premium touch, and the instrument panel adopted a straighter, more functional layout with an ergonomic multifunction display for vehicle information. Optional navigation systems were introduced, integrating into the center console for better connectivity.[62] Structurally, the chassis saw enhancements through the use of high-strength steels in the Tridion cell, increasing torsional stiffness to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels during operation. The suspension setup included MacPherson struts at the front with torsion bars and a De Dion axle at the rear with coil springs, tuned for better ride compliance. Base models achieved a curb weight of approximately 750 kg, maintaining lightweight efficiency akin to the first generation's 730 kg while incorporating these reinforcements.[62][18][63]Engines and fuel economy
The second-generation Smart Fortwo (451 series) utilized a compact 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol engine, updated from the first generation for improved efficiency and compliance with stricter emissions standards. This engine was offered in naturally aspirated variants producing 61 horsepower (45 kW) in base models and 71 horsepower (52 kW) in the micro-hybrid drive (mhd) version introduced in 2009, which incorporated a start-stop system to reduce idle fuel use by automatically shutting off the engine during stops and restarting it seamlessly via an enhanced starter-generator. A turbocharged iteration, available from 2010, boosted output to 84 horsepower (62 kW) for enhanced performance while maintaining compact dimensions. These engines were paired with a 5-speed automated manual transmission (standard), or optional 5-speed manual in select markets.[38][64][65] Fuel economy for the petrol engines varied by variant and transmission, with combined consumption figures ranging from 4.4 to 5.7 liters per 100 kilometers under NEDC testing, translating to CO2 emissions of 104 to 133 grams per kilometer. The mhd system's start-stop functionality contributed to lower urban consumption, achieving up to 5.7 L/100 km in city driving for the 71 hp model, while the turbo version balanced quicker acceleration with 4.9 L/100 km combined. These efficiencies were supported by the engine's lightweight aluminum construction and optimized fuel injection, making the Fortwo suitable for urban environments despite its small 33-liter fuel tank.[18][65] Performance metrics reflected the engine's modest power, with 0-100 km/h acceleration spanning 10.7 seconds for the 84 hp turbo to 16.8 seconds for the 61 hp base, and a governed top speed of 145 km/h across variants to prioritize safety and agility over high-speed capability. In select European markets, a 0.8-liter three-cylinder common-rail diesel engine (CDI) was offered, delivering 45 horsepower (33 kW) initially, later uprated to 54 hp (40 kW) from 2009 in some configurations, with torque of 130 Nm for responsive low-end pull. This diesel achieved superior economy at 3.3 to 4.4 L/100 km combined, with CO2 outputs as low as 86 g/km, but it was phased out after 2010 due to evolving emissions regulations and a shift toward petrol and electric options.[60][18][66]Electric drive models
The development of battery-electric variants for the second-generation Smart Fortwo (451 series) began with prototypes in 2007, when Daimler initiated field testing of 100 units in London equipped with high-temperature ZEBRA sodium-nickel-chloride batteries for fleet evaluation.[67] These early prototypes featured a 30 kW electric motor and were leased exclusively to assess urban usability, marking an initial step toward zero-emission city mobility.[68] Production of the refined Smart ED model commenced in November 2009 at the Hambach facility in France, continuing until 2012 with a limited run of approximately 2,000 units focused on fleet and pilot programs rather than mass retail.[69] Initial models utilized a 14 kWh usable capacity lithium-ion battery pack, paired with a rear-mounted 30 kW (41 hp) synchronous electric motor producing 120 Nm of torque for smooth, instant acceleration suitable for urban driving; from 2012, these were upgraded to a 17.6 kWh battery (14 kWh usable) and 55 kW (74 hp) motor.[70][71] This setup delivered a practical range of 100–140 km under mixed conditions and a 0–100 km/h time of about 13 seconds, emphasizing efficiency over high performance.[72] Charging was facilitated by a standard 3.7 kW onboard AC charger, enabling a full recharge in roughly 8 hours from a household outlet, with partial charges possible for shorter top-ups.[71] Deployment centered on fleet trials, such as those integrated into the Car2Go car-sharing service starting in 2012, to gather real-world data on electric micro-mobility.[73] To mitigate the high initial cost of the battery technology, a leasing model was introduced, allowing customers to rent the battery pack separately and return it at the end of the lease term.[74]Brabus variants
The Brabus variants of the second-generation Smart Fortwo (451 series) represented performance-oriented editions tuned by the German specialist Brabus in partnership with Smart, enhancing the base model's capabilities for more dynamic urban driving from 2007 to 2014. These models built on the standard 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine by increasing output to 98 horsepower (72 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 140 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, resulting in a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 155 km/h.[75][76][77] Complementing the power upgrades, the Brabus featured a sport-tuned suspension lowered by 10 mm for improved handling, larger ventilated disc brakes at all four wheels (upgrading the rear from standard drums), and 16-inch alloy wheels at the front paired with 17-inch rears in a staggered setup fitted with 175/50 R16 and 225/35 R17 tires, respectively.[78][75] Exclusive styling elements included aerodynamic body kits with mesh front grilles, a roof spoiler, twin exhaust outlets, and premium two-tone leather interiors accented by Brabus logos and aluminum dashboard trims.[75][77] Available in both coupe and cabriolet body styles, the Brabus was produced in limited numbers during its run, emphasizing exclusivity over mass-market appeal. The Brabus Xclusive sub-variant further elevated the package with luxury touches such as heated black leather seats, Brabus-branded instrumentation, and enhanced interior materials, positioning it as a more refined option within the lineup.[79][75]Third generation (453 series; 2014–2024)
Platform and styling
The third-generation Smart Fortwo, designated as the 453 series, introduced a new rear-wheel-drive platform developed in collaboration with Renault, shared with the Smart Forfour and the Renault Twingo.[80] This architecture retained the model's compact dimensions, measuring 2.69 meters in length, while enhancing overall stability and handling through a wider track and improved weight distribution.[80] The platform's design emphasized urban maneuverability, with a tight turning circle of just 6.95 meters, making it ideal for city driving.[81] Styling for the 453 series adopted a more modern and expressive aesthetic, featuring a distinctive hexagonal honeycomb grille and round headlights integrated into the front fascia for a playful yet sophisticated look.[80] The Tridion safety cell remained a signature element, now paired with composite body panels in contrasting colors to highlight the vehicle's modular construction. Aerodynamic refinements contributed to a drag coefficient of 0.35 for the coupe variant, achieved through smoother body lines and optimized underbody panels that reduced wind resistance without compromising the compact footprint.[82] Structural enhancements focused on safety and rigidity, incorporating a higher proportion of ultra-high-strength hot-formed steels and multiphase steels—approximately 30% more than the previous generation—particularly in the sidewalls, substructure, and doors to improve impact protection.[83] Inside, the cabin featured fabric-like textures on the dashboard and door panels, evoking the mesh inserts of sports shoes for a tactile, contemporary feel that complemented the optional leather upholstery in higher trims.[80] The introduction of a digital instrument cluster with a 3.5-inch color display provided clearer readability and integrated vehicle information, marking a step toward more advanced driver interfaces.[32] The cabriolet variant adapted this platform with a retractable fabric roof, maintaining structural integrity through reinforced sills.[80]Powertrains
The third-generation Smart Fortwo (453 series) offered a range of internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) powertrains, all paired with a rear-wheel-drive layout and available with either a five-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The ICE options utilized Mitsubishi-sourced three-cylinder engines, emphasizing efficiency for urban driving, while the EV variants provided zero-emission propulsion with a focus on compact battery integration. All models complied with Euro 6 emissions standards, with ICE versions featuring particulate filters and advanced engine management for reduced CO2 output.[84][85] The base ICE powertrain was a 1.0-liter naturally aspirated three-cylinder engine producing 52 kW (71 hp) and 91 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h acceleration in 14.4 seconds. A more performance-oriented variant featured a 0.9-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivering 66 kW (90 hp) and 135 Nm of torque from 2,500 rpm, with 0-100 km/h in 10.4 seconds and a top speed of 155 km/h. Fuel economy for these petrol engines ranged from 4.1 to 4.4 L/100 km under WLTP testing, enabling a theoretical range exceeding 600 km on the 28-liter fuel tank. CO2 emissions were as low as 93-104 g/km, supporting the vehicle's low environmental impact in city environments.[86][84][85]| Powertrain | Displacement | Power | Torque | 0-100 km/h | Fuel Economy (WLTP combined) | CO2 Emissions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0L Petrol | 999 cc | 52 kW (71 hp) | 91 Nm | 14.4 s | 4.1 L/100 km | 93 g/km |
| 0.9L Turbo Petrol | 898 cc | 66 kW (90 hp) | 135 Nm | 10.4 s | 4.2 L/100 km | 97 g/km |