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Smart Electrifies its Entire Lineup and Extends Range
The Smart lineup introduced its first electric model back in 2013, but it was limited to just the Fortwo model. This model was little more than a novelty and compliance car due to its short range, low power, and limited options. Recently, Smart unveiled its all-new 2018 Smart Electric Drive, and many of these issues were addressed.
The first big update is the spreading of the Electric Drive powertrain to the Cabrio model. In the U.K., they get one extra model in the Forfour ED – this model is not available in the U.S.
The other big update is to the powertrain itself. This new Electric Drive system now produces 80 horsepower and 118 pound-feet of torque – increases of 18 horsepower and 18 pound-feet. This revised powertrain accelerates the Fortwo to 60 mph in 11.4 seconds and the Fortwo Cabrio in 11.7 seconds. Maximum speed checks in at 81 mph.
Also enhanced is the range of the Smart Electric Drive, pushing it from 68 miles to 99 miles (Cabrio is rated at 96 miles). Finally, the charge time is significantly down – 2.5 hours on a 240-volt source compared to 5.5 hours in the previous generation.
Obviously, the Smart Electric Drive also inherits the ForTwo’s all-new body. This sleek new body gives the Smart ForTwo a more grownup look than ever before.
The 2018 Smart Fortwo will hit showrooms in the spring of 2017, while the Cabrio will arrive in the summer of 2017. More details, including pricing, will come at a later date.
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