Will be showcased at Paris Motor Show
The new generation all-electric Smart models claim to have improved range, better performance, and shorter recharging time.
Following up the joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Renault-Nissan, the new Smart Electric Drive line-up uses an electric driveline already found in the Renault Zoe, which features a rear-mounted three-phase synchronous electric motor sends 80 hp (81 PS) and 118 lb-ft (160 Nm) to the rear wheels through a fixed-ratio gearbox.
Performance-wise, the new Electric Drive models can reach 62 mph (100 km/h) from a standstill in 11.5 sec (ForTwo), 11.8 sec (ForTwo Cabrio) and 12.7 (ForFour) sec seconds. The governed top speed has also been increased to 81 mph (130 km/h), from the previous generation's 78 mph.
Using a 17.6 kWh battery pack, the new Electric Drive models can go for up to 100 miles for the ForTwo (96 miles for the ForTwo Cabrio and the ForFour) with a single charge while needing 2.5 hours for a complete recharge. From 2017, though, a more-powerful 22 kWh optional recharger will have the batteries ready to go in just 45 minutes.
You can observe and remotely control the recharging process via the Smart Control app available for your smartphone/tablet.
The new Smart Electric Drive generation will make its appearance at this month's end Paris Motor Show.