The Ideal Urban Car Becomes a Reality

The Smart Electric Drive was unveiled at Omotesando Hills. The car made a unique entrance, driving through the venue's corridors. "While gasoline cars face building regulations, electric vehicles emit no exhaust, thus receiving driving permits," explained a spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz Japan (MBJ).

The Smart Electric Drive, which moved silently, is equipped with an electric motor producing a maximum output of 30kW and a maximum torque of 120Nm, paired with a lithium-ion battery. At the press conference, MBJ President Nicolas Speeks, who arrived by bicycle, humorously remarked, "Only a bicycle is more environmentally friendly than this car."

MBJ President Nicolas Speeks

"With a top speed of around 100 km/h and a range of over 130 km on a single charge, the key technological focus is the ability to pre-heat the cabin in winter or cool it in summer while the car is plugged into the charging grid before the driver gets in. What automotive engineers have long envisioned is finally becoming a reality with the Smart Electric Drive," said President Speeks.

Another interesting aspect is the incorporation of several technologies co-developed with Tesla Motors of the United States. "We maintain close cooperation in battery systems, electric drive systems, and individual vehicle development," stated the public relations department. Daimler AG, Smart's parent company, has held a capital alliance with Tesla Motors since May 2009.

"This car should be the ideal means of transport for city dwellers. Current data shows that 90% of people who live in cities and drive cars do so alone. Smart, targeting this market, has sold a cumulative total of 1 million units in 45 countries. The electric car concept was announced in 2006, a demo fleet was run in London in 2007, and production began in January 2009. In Japan, instead of direct sales, we will offer it through leasing, with 1,000 units planned."

Agile Handling Unique to the ED

I actually test drove the car and took it for a spin around the streets of Harajuku. A distinctive feature of the Smart Electric Drive is the ammeter showing discharge or charge and the battery level indicator in front of the driver. Otherwise, it's largely unchanged from the gasoline version. The procedure of turning the ignition key at the base of the shift lever to activate the electric motor and then shifting into D is also no different.

The accelerator pedal has a slightly heavier feel, but pressing it with a bit of force reveals a sharp acceleration characteristic of an electric motor. At traffic lights, it can easily outpace most other cars. Furthermore, since the Smart's debut in 1998, its handling has been continuously refined, resulting in responsive steering and quick chassis reactions. It offers a delightful driving experience.

The ride is remarkably quiet. Despite its compact exterior dimensions, which likely contributed to nearly 20,000 units being sold in Japan, the interior offers ample space. This is undoubtedly a testament to Smart's clever packaging. The appeal of the Smart Electric Drive is particularly evident in the busy streets of Aoyama. While the leasing price is yet to be determined, it's hoped that this car will provide an opportunity for many people to experience it.

Smart Fortwo Electric Drive | The Smart Electric Car
Range | 135 km (NEDC European measurement)
Top Speed | 100 km/h
0-60 km/h Acceleration | 6.5 seconds
Maximum Output | 30 kW
Maximum Torque | 120 Nm
Battery | Tesla Lithium-Ion Battery
*Energy Capacity | 16.5 kWh
Charging Time | 8 hours (200V) / 16 hours (100V)