smart#3 showcased and tested locally, set for Malaysia Autoshow 2024 debut

KUALA LUMPUR:  smart Malaysia recently hosted a three-day event at its headquarters near PROTON's Centre of Excellence, where it officially introduced the all-electric smart #3 SUV Coupe to a select group of media and attendees. The event, themed 'Chase the Thrill,' was designed to showcase the new vehicle's capabilities and offer attendees, including media representatives and electric vehicle enthusiasts, a close-up view of the SUV's design and performance.

The smart #3, crafted by Kai Saiber, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz, reflects a commitment to aesthetic appeal and functional design, embodying themes of emotional attraction, cleanliness, and surprising innovations. During the event, participants took part in activities like test drives and detailed walkthroughs of the vehicle’s features, emphasizing the SUV's adaptability to urban environments.

The highlight was the test drives held at the PROTON's Test Track, where the smart #3 displayed its dynamic capabilities and stylish design, which is said to suit daily driving needs while maintaining a flair of elegance.

Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of smart Malaysia, acknowledged the contributions of all attendees, stating that the event highlighted the smart #3 as a model of thrilling driving experiences. He emphasized the vehicle’s design, meant to appeal to a diverse audience, and reiterated the company's commitment to providing a comprehensive ownership experience. This commitment includes the Hello smart App and an extensive network of charging stations and dealerships.

The smart #3 has already received international recognition, winning both the iF Design Award and the Red Dot Design Award, which celebrate outstanding design and innovation.

Looking ahead, the smart #3 is scheduled to make its public debut at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, running from May 22-26, where the public will have the opportunity to experience its features firsthand.

The unveiling will take place at Hall A2 (Premium Hall), MAEPS, Serdang, marking a significant moment as smart Malaysia aims to transform the electric mobility landscape with its latest offering.

The smart#3 was first seen on Malaysian shores at Kuala Lumpur's car free day where member's of the public were the first to have a first glimpse of the bigger brother of the smart#1.

Launched in China mid-last year, the smart#3 is offered in four distinct versions: the Pro+, the Pulse AWD, the Premium, and the limited-edition Brabus Performance, which is limited to just 1,999 units for 2023. Prices start from CNY 209,900 (approximately RM 135,478) and can go up to CNY 289,900 (approximately RM 187,113). Both the Pro+ and Premium models are equipped with a single front motor that produces 268 hp, supported by a 66 kWh battery capable of delivering a range of 555 km on the CLTC cycle.

The Pulse AWD variant features a dual-motor system that delivers a combined 422 hp and 543 Nm of torque, achieving a range of 520 km on a single charge. The Brabus Performance model matches the Pulse AWD in terms of power but distinguishes itself with sporty bodywork and striking 20-inch wheels.

Similar to its sibling, the smart#1, the smart#3 is constructed on Geely's Sustainable Electric Architecture (SEA) platform. It measures 4,400 mm in length, 1,844 mm in width, 1,556 mm in height, and has a 2,785 mm wheelbase. The vehicle's design emphasizes aerodynamics, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.27 Cd. Inside, the smart#3 is outfitted with a 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Snapdragon 8155 and includes Smart Pilot Assist, offering a Level 2+ ADAS package for enhanced driving assistance.

While pricing details have not yet been announced, the frequent appearances and promotional events for the smart#3 suggest that it is poised for a launch by year-end. Expect pricing information to be revealed shortly before its official release.

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