Smart returns to basics: the new two-seater electric car #2 is set to premiere in April.

Smart has finally remembered what made it beloved — tiny cars that can be parked where others can only dream. In recent years, the brand, owned by a joint venture between Geely and Mercedes-Benz, has been actively "growing." It reached a point where the announced Smart #6 sedan stretched to 4906 mm. However, the true DNA of the brand is compactness, and the new Smart #2 aims to correct this. Recently, a prototype of the upcoming novelty was spotted during road tests in China.

Retro-futurism design

Visually, the "two" is a direct successor to the second-generation classic ForTwo. Short overhangs, a characteristic body shape, and almost toy-like proportions. Spy shots reveal that the car has fairly massive contrasting rearview mirrors. Interestingly, the charging ports are located in the front fenders, which is logical for urban maneuvering near charging terminals.

The two-seater Smart returns to its roots. Photo: Dajia Cheyanlun

The test specimen has simple steel wheels that look somewhat bulky, but the production version will likely get alloy wheels. Also visible behind the windshield is a camera — a hint at the availability of modern driver assistance systems.

Technical content from Geely and styling from Mercedes

The distribution of roles in the owners’ tandem remains unchanged: the Germans design, the Chinese build. Smart #2 is based on the new ECA modular architecture. This means that Geely engineers are responsible for the powertrain and software. Preliminary data indicates that the car’s length will be about 2700 mm, and the wheelbase around 1900 mm.

The compact electric car is expected to be driven by a single electric motor, powered by a 30 kWh battery. This is not enough for long journeys, but more than sufficient for daily city trips. Such a configuration keeps the vehicle’s weight within reasonable limits and ensures superb maneuverability.

Why does the brand need this now?

The situation with the Smart company is not at its best right now. Sales of large models in China are not meeting expectations: only 2,974 units were sold in the first two months of 2026. Dealers are forced to hold sales to clear inventory of crossovers. The release of model #2 is an attempt to return to a niche where the brand practically has no competitors in the premium segment.

The official presentation of Smart #2 is scheduled for the Beijing Auto Show, opening its doors on April 24, 2026. We will then learn more about its technical specifications, design, and prices.