{"id":53921,"date":"2026-07-20T11:37:20","date_gmt":"2026-07-20T11:37:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/53921\/"},"modified":"2026-07-20T11:37:20","modified_gmt":"2026-07-20T11:37:20","slug":"smart-2-ev-enters-global-testing-ahead-of-paris-motor-show-debut","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/53921\/","title":{"rendered":"Smart #2 EV enters global testing ahead of Paris Motor Show debut"},"content":{"rendered":"

The all-electric Smart #2<\/a> 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<\/a> has confirmed that the model is being tested across public roads and dedicated facilities.<\/p>\n

Smart said the production model also carries over the original Smart fortwo\u2019s space-maximising design, with the wheels positioned near the vehicle\u2019s corners to maximise cabin space.<\/p>\n

Smart #2 moves into global testing phase<\/p>\n

According to Smart\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Smart Global CTO Yang Jun said the validation programme is intended to assess the vehicle\u2019s safety, driving stability and cabin refinement before the model enters production.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>Smart #2 prototype photographed from the rear during its physical validation program.<\/p>\n

What we know so far<\/p>\n

The Smart #2 concept was previously presented with a 35.7 kWh battery<\/a>, a WLTP range target of around 300 km, a 10\u201380% 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.<\/p>\n

Previously, Smart CEO Tong Xiangbei described the #2 as a production-bound model<\/a> 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<\/a> in December 2025 using modified Smart fortwo-based test vehicles before development progressed to the current pre-production phase.<\/p>\n

Smart prepares new models ahead of 2026 expansion<\/p>\n

The Smart #2 is part of Smart\u2019s 2026 product plan alongside the Smart #6<\/a>. Smart noted that the brand has operated as a global joint venture between Mercedes-Benz AG and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group since 2019.<\/p>\n

Existing Smart models recorded limited registrations in the Chinese market in June 2026, according to China EV DataTracker<\/a>. 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.<\/p>\n

\"Avatar<\/a><\/p>\n

Adrian, an Electrical and Computer Engineering graduate with a love for cars, brings expertise and enthusiasm to every test at CarNewsChina. He also enjoys audio, photography, and staying active.<\/p>\n

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