Malaysia-bound Smart #3 EV launched in China

KUALA LUMPUR: The German EV marque ‘smart’ (jointly owned by Mercedes-Benz and Geely) is set to arrive in Malaysia with the launch of the smart #1 slated to arrive later this year. After the smart #1, the EV maker will bring the smart #3 to local shores, which has recently gone on sale in China. 

The China-spec smart #3 is offered in four variants - Pro+, Pulse AWD, Premium, and Brabus Performance; the production of the latter is limited to 1,999 units in 2023. The price starts at CNY 209,900 (RM 135,478) and goes all the way up to CNY 289,900 (RM 187,113).

In terms of powertrain, the Pro+ and Premium versions are equipped with a single front motor generating a maximum power of 268 hp. The motor is fed by a 66 kWh battery pack, offering a range of 555 km (on the CLTC cycle).

The Pulse AWD trim, on the contrary, has a dual-motor setup - front with 268 hp and rear with an additional 154 hp. The combined output of the system is rated at 422 hp and 543 Nm. The battery pack remains the same as the Pro+ and Premium, which lets the EV run for 520 km on a single charge.

The smart #3 Brabus Performance is identical to the Pulse in terms of powertrain configuration. However, what sets the limited-edition model apart is its sporty bodywork and lavish 20-inch wheels. 

Just like the #1, the #3 also underpins Geely’s SEA platform. It measures 4,400 mm in length, 1,844 mm in width, and 1,556 mm in height, and spans a wheelbase of 2,785 mm. The aerodynamics of the EV promised an impressive drag coefficient of 0.27 Cd. 

Among the key interior inclusions of the new smart EV are - a 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit powered by Snapdragon 8155 and Smart Pilot Assist (Level 2+ ADAS pack).

For those who are not aware, smart EVs will be imported and distributed by Proton’s subsidiary PRO-NET in Malaysia. 

Also read: Pro-net appoints EON as dealer for selling smart EVs in Malaysia