The all-electric Smart #2 has entered global physical validation ahead of its production model debut at the Paris Motor Show in October 2026, with pre-production vehicles undergoing testing in camouflage. Smart has confirmed that the model is being tested across public roads and dedicated facilities.
Smart said the production model also carries over the original Smart fortwo’s space-maximising design, with the wheels positioned near the vehicle’s corners to maximise cabin space.
Smart #2 moves into global testing phase
According to Smart’s July 20 announcement, the #2 prototype is undergoing validation across multiple environments, including proving grounds, wind tunnels, acoustic chambers, temperature-controlled four-post rigs, and public roads.
The programme includes emergency lane changes, wet-road conditions, noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) optimisation, kerb impacts, and deep-pothole durability evaluations. Smart did not disclose numerical test results or independent validation data from the programme.
Earlier development also included winter dynamic testing in Northeast China. Smart has not disclosed the full list of global validation locations or the names of specific facilities.
The Smart #2 uses the Electric Compact Architecture (ECA) with a two-seat layout, rear-wheel drive and a next-generation tridion safety cell. According to Smart, current validation work includes refining chassis hard points, steering ratio, rack travel, suspension movement control, chassis rigidity and structural stress points.
Smart Global CTO Yang Jun said the validation programme is intended to assess the vehicle’s safety, driving stability and cabin refinement before the model enters production.
Smart #2 prototype photographed from the rear during its physical validation program.
What we know so far
The Smart #2 concept was previously presented with a 35.7 kWh battery, a WLTP range target of around 300 km, a 10–80% DC fast-charging time of approximately 20 minutes, and a 6.95 m turning circle. These figures applied to the concept vehicle and have not been confirmed for the production model.
Previously, Smart CEO Tong Xiangbei described the #2 as a production-bound model and referenced a 400 km CLTC range target. That figure represented an executive target rather than a confirmed production specification. Earlier testing was first reported in December 2025 using modified Smart fortwo-based test vehicles before development progressed to the current pre-production phase.
Smart prepares new models ahead of 2026 expansion
The Smart #2 is part of Smart’s 2026 product plan alongside the Smart #6. Smart noted that the brand has operated as a global joint venture between Mercedes-Benz AG and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group since 2019.
Existing Smart models recorded limited registrations in the Chinese market in June 2026, according to China EV DataTracker. The Smart #1 led the lineup with 988 units, followed by Smart #5 with 434, Smart #6 with 198, and Smart #3 with 177. These figures cover existing production models only and do not include the unreleased Smart #2.
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