The revitalised Smart brand may have expanded its reach with a range of small and medium SUVs, but the car that started it all hasn't been forgotten.
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Smart has confirmed that a successor to its iconic ForTwo city car is destined for production in late 2026.
Initially the subject of a feasibility study called ‘project:two’, the new model will be badged as the #2, and slot in beneath the existing Smart #1 SUV.
While the original Smart ForTwo was first launched as an internal combustion-powered city car, later versions transitioned to electric propulsion.
In line with Smart’s current range of vehicles, the Smart #2 will be a dedicated electric vehicle.
While the brand is preparing to introduce a plug-in hybrid variant of the #5 in China to broaden its appeal, the compact size of the #2 likely rules out alternative powertrains.
Like the #1, #3, and #5 SUVs, the Smart #2 will be designed by Mercedes-Benz but built in China by Geely, as part of the 50:50 joint venture between the two companies.
Teaser images reveal the #2 will keep the ultra-compact dimensions that defined the three generations that preceded it, and Smart has confirmed it will keep its two-seat interior.
In silhouette, the form follows the short bonnet and upright tailgate of the third-generation Smart ForTwo, which was produced from 2014 to 2024.
Technical details of the new model are scarce, but Smart confirmed the #2 will be built on a proprietary ‘ultra-compact’ vehicle architecture of its own, rather than an existing Geely or Mercedes-Benz chassis design.
Geely’s current vehicle lineup already includes the Panda Mini EV, a 3.1-metre long compact EV with a 20kW or 30kW motor, a 10kWh or 17kWh battery, and a range of 120km to 210km according to lenient CLTC test standards.
Compared to the last ForTwo EQ, the Panda Mini is around 40cm longer, but 33kW less powerful and with a 127km WLTP driving range rating.
While China has a vehicle class for ‘neighbourhood’ mini vehicles with limited top speeds and short-range electric capabilities, the need for the #2 to fit existing Western market expectations means the model may stick closer to the design of its predecessor.
There’s also a chance that Geely could produce a version for China, and a modified version for Europe, although that remains speculation for now.
Smart has confirmed that China and Europe will receive the new model, with other select global markets likely to receive the new model.
The new Smart #2 is set to be revealed in production form in late 2026.
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Kez Casey migrated from behind spare parts counters to writing about cars over ten years ago. Raised by a family of automotive workers, Kez grew up in workshops and panel shops before making the switch to reviews and road tests for The Motor Report, Drive and CarAdvice.
