Smart #1 EV previewed in Malaysia ahead of launch

KUALA LUMPUR: The German EV marque “smart” will be soon entering the Malaysian market in collaboration with Pro-Net (Proton’s dedicated subsidiary for NEVs). The first smart EV to be introduced here is the #1 (Hashtag One), which recently made its South ASEAN debut in Malaysia. 

Also read: Hap Seng Smart to sell smart EVs in Malaysia

Let’s get to know the upcoming smart #1 EV in detail - 

Based on the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) 2 platform, the EV measures 4,270 mm in length, 1,822 mm in width, and 1,636 mm in height and spans a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. These dimensions make it a direct rival to the Mini Countryman.

The smart #1 underpins the “sensibility and sharpness” design philosophy with an illuminated front grille, Cybersparks Matrix LED headlamps connected by a DRL bar, frameless doors, concealed door handles, luminous side logos, a panoramic halo roof, and dynamic LED tail light. The EV runs in 19-inch 'Rotor' alloy wheels shod with 235/45 profile tyres

When it comes to the drivetrain, no official details are yet available about the Malaysia-spec model. However, we can refer to the Chinese version to get an idea. The Chinese-spec smart #1 is powered by a rear-mounted electric motor generating a maximum power of 272 PS along with a peak torque of 343 Nm. It enables the EV to run from a standstill to 100 kmph in 6.7 seconds.

The motor is fed by a 66-kWh battery pack, offering a range of up to 560 km on a single charge, depending on the variant chosen. The battery supports both AC and DC charging. The 150 kW DC charger takes less than 30 minutes to juice it up from 10% to 80%.

In terms of equipment, the EV is likely to come fitted with several advanced creature comforts like - a 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, head-up display, a 9.2-inch digital instrument panel, an advanced sound system with 13 speakers, dual-zone climate control, electrically-adjustable front seats, multi-colour ambient lighting, vehicle-to-load functionality, seven airbags, and advanced driver-assistance systems. 

For exact specifications and pricing, we will have to wait for the smart #1 launch, which is slated for the fourth quarter of the year.

Also read: Proton organises Global Investors & Vendors Convention 2023 to fuel AHTV project