The Smart #2, a compact electric vehicle developed through the 50:50 joint venture between Geely and Mercedes-Benz, is slated for its public debut at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show this April. This marks a return to the brand’s origins in producing small, city-focused cars, contrasting with its recent shift towards larger EV models.
A Shift Back to Roots
Smart, headquartered in Ningbo, China, has been expanding its electric lineup with models like the #1, #3, and #5. However, the company is also preparing to launch two additional vehicles this year: the larger Smart #6 EHD plug-in hybrid sedan, and the long-awaited #2 city car.
The #2 represents a strategic move to revisit the compact segment that defined Smart in its early years. While developing microcars is more complex than larger vehicles, as noted by Smart Global CEO Tong Xiangbei, the company is confident in ensuring the model’s profitability under the leadership of Smart Europe President Dirk Adelmann.
Design and Engineering
The Smart #2 will be built on the new ECA architecture and powered by a Geely-developed powertrain. Exterior styling will be overseen by Mercedes-Benz, ensuring a blend of both companies’ expertise. The design, as seen in recent spy shots, echoes the aesthetic of the classic petrol-powered Smart ForTwo: short overhangs, oval headlights, and proportionally large wheels.
Market Entry and Production
Mass production of the #2 is expected to begin shortly after its unveiling in Beijing, with market entry planned for both China and Europe by the end of 2026. The vehicle will feature two doors and two seats, reaffirming its commitment to the small-car segment.
The Smart #2’s launch signals a strategic reorientation for the brand, balancing its expansion into larger EVs with a return to its core identity in compact urban mobility. This move could prove pivotal in attracting a broader customer base and solidifying Smart’s position in the evolving electric vehicle market.
