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January 27, 2015
Smart "Forstars" Concept | smart
Smart Forstars Concept
Your Garage Becomes a Theater
The Smart "Forstars" Concept
Mercedes-BenzMercedes-Benz AG will unveil the "Smart Forstars," a concept based on a Smart electric vehicle, at the 2012 Paris Motor Show (Paris Salon).
Text by HORIGUCHI Yoshihiro (OPENERS)
Always See "Stars"
The "Smart Forstars," classified by Mercedes-Benz as an SUC (Sports Utility Coupe), is a concept car that blends a low profile with SUV-like styling and a playful spirit.
The roof is entirely glass, allowing occupants to gaze at the starry sky, which is one reason for the "forstars" name. Another reason is the projector mounted at the front of the body, enabling movie viewing at any time – in essence, meeting the film stars. The playful equipment and naming seem to embody the very concept of this charming car.
The body dimensions are 3,550mm in length, 1,710mm in width, and 1,505mm in height. The powertrain is not from the commercially availableSmart Electric Drive(Smart electric vehicle), but rather a high-power version intended for the concept car "Smart Fortwo Brabus Electric Drive." It is equipped with a 17.6kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering a maximum output of 60kW and peak torque of 135Nm. The top speed is reported to reach 130 km/h.
The wheels are fitted with Michelin sport tires, size 245/35 ZR21. The 21-inch three-spoke wheels further enhance the sporty image.
Inside, the area where the rearview mirror would normally be is replaced by a smartphone holder. By equipping a smartphone here, the rear camera can be used to check the view behind. Furthermore, the standout feature, a media player housed in the hood, is controlled via Bluetooth from an iPhone and displays video through the projector.
The exterior features an Alubeam finish, a costly and technologically advanced treatment also offered as an option on the SLS AMG. Dubbed "Alubeam rouge," it emits a unique sheen that appears to be both red and orange. Additionally, the Tridion safety cell, Smart's signature exposed external frame, is finished in titanium color.
Moreover, the "eyelids" on the headlights and the "visor"-like element above the windshield and glass roof, resembling a sun visor, give the car an anthropomorphic quality, making it enjoyable to simply look at.
While it's naturally unlikely that this car will go into mass production as is, it strongly highlights the playful side of Smart, a brand increasingly associated with car-sharing and city commuting.
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