Smart Reveals Electric #2 City Car at Paris Motor Show

Smart has unveiled the new #2 electric two-seater at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, bringing back its compact city car concept with a new electric platform, a 180-mile range, and a UK starting price below £20,000.

The model succeeds the Fortwo and is designed for urban driving, with production planned by Smart, the Mercedes-Benz and Geely joint venture. The company will open UK pre-orders in spring 2027, with deliveries starting in summer.

According to Autocar, the Smart #2 measures 2,746 mm long and uses the brand’s Electric Compact Architecture platform. Its 6.95-metre turning circle maintains the model’s focus on maneuverability in crowded city environments.

The vehicle uses a rear-mounted 60 kW electric motor producing 80 hp and 130 Nm of torque, according to Smart. A 35.8 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery provides a target WLTP range of 180 miles, while DC charging reaches 65 kW.

Smart said the battery can charge from 10% to 80% in 20 minutes using compatible DC fast charging. The car also includes vehicle-to-load capability, allowing external devices to draw power from the battery.

The #2 continues Smart’s Tridion safety structure with the next-generation Tridion Cell Evo. According to Smart, the structure uses 78% high-strength steel and is paired with driver assistance systems including adaptive cruise control and highway assist.

Smart Europe CEO Wolfgang Ufer described the model as a return to the brand’s two-seat identity while adapting it for current mobility needs.

"The smart #2 marks the return of an automotive icon, reimagined for modern cities in Europe and around the globe. This new smart two-seater builds on the unique qualities of the brand-shaping fortwo with the advantages of today's technology solutions. to meet our customers' expectations. It adds a new dimension to our portfolio, staying true to the smart idea of making urban mobility more relevant, practical and distinctive." said Wolfgang Ufer, CEO of smart Europe GmbH.

The Smart #2 features a split tailgate, bench-style seating, and a 305-litre boot, according to Autocar. The cabin includes a 10.1-inch central touchscreen, an 8.8-inch driver display, and a dashboard smart Pillar for attaching small accessories.

Smart R&D Europe Vice President Dr. Tilo Schweers said engineering work focused on balancing comfort and handling in a small vehicle.

"Getting the balance right in a car this compact meant tuning every detail, from chassis hard points and steering ratio to the right tyre compound for both city streets and open highways. We tested the smart #2 on proving grounds, in wind tunnels, and on public roads across different climates, because confidence behind the wheel must hold up in the real world, not just on paper." said Dr. Tilo Schweers, Vice President R&D Europe of smart Europe GmbH.

The UK range will include Pure and Premium trims along with a limited Couture Edition. Smart said the Couture Edition will be limited to 999 units in Europe and 999 units in China.

Smart China launched the Couture Edition at 112,999 yuan ($16,790), according to CnEVPost. The special version features matte white paint, a gold roof, exclusive wheels, and a numbered badge.

Smart UK CEO Louise O'Sullivan said the new model combines the original Fortwo’s character with technology from the current Smart range.

"The UK's love of the original smart fortwo is well known, and the new #2 combines the pioneering spirit of that car with the advanced technology of smart's current award-winning model range. By offering the best of both worlds, we're confident that the #2 will be an even bigger hit with UK drivers than its iconic predecessor." said Louise O'Sullivan, CEO of smart UK.

Smart’s original Fortwo launched in 1998 and sold more than 2 million units, according to CnEVPost. The new #2 returns the brand to the two-seat city car segment while adding modern electric vehicle technology.