Re-launched smart announces electric crossover for 2022

Smart has revealed several prototypes of a subcompact crossover that it plans to launch later this year.

The crossover is named #1 (yes, marked with a hashtag) and is a production version of the concept #1 we saw at last year's Munich Motor Show.

The #1, as its name suggests, is the first of a new generation of smart cars developed by Mercedes-Benz in partnership with Geely Automobile. The two parties will establish a 50:50 joint venture, Smart Automobile, in 2019, which will be based in China and will be responsible for overseeing the development and production of future Smart models.

The vehicle will be supported by Geely's SEA modular electric vehicle platform, which will support fast charging and wireless updates. Specifications have not been disclosed, but we do know that the vehicle has a drag coefficient of 0.29 Cd, which is impressive for a crossover vehicle. Design details such as hidden door handles and active grille shutters help to achieve this.

As part of the development process, the prototype was tested in temperatures as cold as minus 40 degrees Celsius. There is a system in place to ensure that the battery always operates at the ideal temperature, and future owners will be able to use this system to preheat the battery with an app before heading out.

#1 will be part of the family car. A fortwo style hatch will be part of the lineup, and a sedan is likely.

Given Smart's withdrawal from the US in 2020, it is unlikely that the brand will return to the US anytime soon. In other words, we are unlikely to see a new Smart on local roads.