New model will debut towards the end of 2026 and sits on a new platform developed by smart’s R&D team.

smart has officially confirmed the development of an all-new two-seater electric city car, to be named the smart #2.

The vehicle has entered its final design and development phase following the successful completion of a feasibility study, with the #2 having been under development for several years as engineers tried to find a way to make it fit the SEA platform and achieve a respectable EuroNCAP score.

It seems the brand didn’t manage to achieve that, so instead it will be built on a purpose-developed architecture for the ultra-compact segment, and will, as others smarts, be designed. by Mercedes-Benz.

It is scheduled to make its official debut at the end of 2026 and will be launched in China, Europe, and other international markets.

smart stated that the #2 will be an all-electric two-door vehicle that incorporates advanced technology while retaining the core characteristics that defined its predecessor, the fortwo.

This move marks the brand’s strategic return to the ultra-compact vehicle segment it originally helped to pioneer, though questions remain just how small it will be given the more stringent crash test regulations today.

The new architecture underpinning the smart #2 has been developed in-house by Smart’s research and development team specifically for ultra-compact vehicles.

It will be produced in China and is described as being equipped with class-leading technological solutions. The project is now progressing through its final stages before production commences.

Senior company executives have commented on the significance of this new model with Chief Executive Officer Tong Xiangbei noting the complexity of developing an all-electric ultra-compact car, but also the company’s preparation for it.

He credited shareholders’ support for the expansion of production and R&D capabilities, making the timing right for this launch.

Chief Marketing Officer Zhang Mingxia highlighted the original fortwo’s iconic status, noting it was loved by over two million users and became a symbol of urban mobility. She stated that the new smart #2 integrates the brand’s latest technology and design concepts to revitalise this iconic two-seater concept for a new generation.

Upon its launch, the Smart #2 will join the existing model lineup, which includes the #1, #3, and #5, as well as an upcoming plug-in hybrid variant of the #5.