Smart is gearing up to launch an all-new, ultra-compact electric vehicle – the #2 – in late 2026. This model is designed as a direct successor to the iconic ForTwo city car, promising a fresh take on urban mobility while retaining the brand’s signature dimensions and two-seater layout.
Reviving a City Icon
After announcing its return to its city car roots, Smart has been actively testing prototypes for the #2. These test mules are disguised with the body of the older ForTwo to maintain secrecy around the final design, but they confirm that the new model will maintain the ultra-compact proportions that defined its predecessor. The vehicle is designed to be a two-door, two-seater, mirroring the original ForTwo.
A New Platform for a New Era
The #2 will be built on Smart’s new Electric Compact Architecture (ECA) platform, developed in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz and Geely. Smart CEO Dirk Adelmann has emphasized leveraging resources from both partners to expedite development, acknowledging that speed is critical in the competitive EV market.
“We will grab from the shelf, whatever we can,” says Adelmann. “Mainly on the Geely side. We benefit from both sides in this adventure.”
This approach reflects a shift in priorities, with Smart prioritizing rapid market entry over absolute perfection, relying on over-the-air updates to refine the vehicle post-launch.
Positioning Within the Smart Lineup
The #2 will become Smart’s entry-level model, slotting below the existing #1 SUV, #3 coupe-SUV, and #5 family SUV. The recently revealed #6 saloon will not be available in the UK. Despite this, the new model will be primarily targeted towards the European market.
Electric-Only Future
Smart remains committed to an all-electric lineup. As CEO Adelmann states, “If you want to take traffic decarbonisation seriously, you have to do electric.” The #2 will feature a compact e-motor and battery pack, likely positioned between the rear wheels and under the cabin floor, potentially offering a slightly higher driving position compared to earlier generations.
Range and Design Expectations
The new #2 is expected to double the range of the previous electric ForTwo, aiming for approximately 180–200 miles on a single charge. Design-wise, Smart’s head of design, Kai Sieber, notes that replicating the original’s exposed safety cell is challenging due to modern pedestrian safety regulations. Instead, the design will blend elements of the original ForTwo with the brand’s current aesthetic.
Key features will include flared wheel arches, large wheels, and a “shrinkwrap” body style to emphasize its compact stance. The interior will incorporate digital interfaces, bright colors, and playful details.
Pricing and Market Strategy
Smart anticipates a price range of £20,000 to £25,000 for the #2, although the company remains open to lowering costs to compete with emerging low-cost EV offerings. The brand aims to balance affordability with maintaining a premium product image.
The return of a compact Smart model is expected to reinforce the brand’s identity and attract new customers in the urban mobility segment.
The new Smart #2 represents a strategic move to revitalize the brand’s city car legacy, aligning with evolving market demands for efficient, compact, and sustainable transportation.
