smart’s First-ever SUV Previewed by Stunning Concept
The smart brand was dropped in North America following the 2019 model year, but it continues to exist in Europe and China. Back in January, we told you that it would reinvent itself as an SUV company, and now we have visual evidence.
This week at the IAA show in Munich, Germany, smart unveiled a stunning SUV concept that previews a future production model.
Simply called Concept #1, the vehicle is 4,290 mm long, 1,910 mm wide and 1,698 mm tall, or about the size of a Jeep Renegade. It sits on massive 21-inch wheels and features rear suicide doors, none of which are expected to get the green light. The contrasting roof frame, meanwhile, is a nod to the tridion cell design of former smart cars.
The spacious interior resulting from the electric drivetrain is filled with light thanks to the huge panoramic roof and ambient lighting. There are four individual seats in the concept, though the two in the rear will inevitably be replaced by a conventional bench seat.
Up front, the floating centre console and bold dashboard are largely trimmed in gold for a striking look. Perched at the top is a 12.8-inch touchscreen powered by a next-generation infotainment system.
Clearly, smart wanted to make a big statement and capture the imagination, but the final product will obviously be a lot more conservative. It will be based on Chinese automaker Geely's Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) and launched locally as well as in Europe sometime next year. No technical details were shared, so we don’t have a clue about output and range.
What do you think of this future electric SUV from smart? Any regrets that the brand is gone?