Summary
- Smart #5 will offer electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains
- Geely-owned brands may also shift away from being EV-only
- Plug-in hybrid models will have a 1.5-liter engine with an electric motor and two battery pack sizes
- The top electric model of the Smart #5 will have dual motors with 579 hp and a 100 kWh battery
- Strong demand for plug-in hybrids in China may be driving the shift in Smart’s strategy
Article
The Smart #5 Introduction
The Smart #5, set to be released in 2024, will be available with both electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains. This decision comes after the rising popularity of plug-in hybrids in markets such as China, where the Smart #5 is expected to be a key player. This move signifies a shift from Smart’s previous plan to only offer battery electric vehicles, showing a commitment to adapt to changing market trends and consumer preferences in the automotive industry.
Smart’s Move Towards Plug-In Hybrids
Smart, which is partially owned by Mercedes-Benz and Geely Group, is following in the footsteps of other Geely-owned brands by incorporating plug-in hybrids into its lineup. The decision to offer both electric and plug-in hybrid variants of the Smart #5 is aimed at ensuring the brand’s survival in a competitive market where sales of pure electric vehicles are fluctuating. By diversifying its powertrain options, Smart is positioning itself to cater to a wider range of buyers and stay relevant in the evolving automotive landscape.
Smart #5 Powertrain Options
The Smart #5 PHEV is expected to utilize a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 215 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid model will feature two battery pack sizes, 8.5 kWh and 19.1 kWh, with the larger option offering a CLTC electric range of 75 miles. On the other hand, the pure electric variants of the Smart #5 will boast superior performance, with a dual-motor setup producing 579 horsepower and a 100 kWh battery providing a CLTC range of 460 miles.
Smart’s Market Expansion
While Smart has a strong presence in China, the brand’s return to the U.S. market could be challenging given the increasing influence of Geely and the competitive landscape. However, for other regions around the world, Smart’s move towards plug-in hybrids signals a new direction for the brand beyond its traditional microcar offerings. By embracing different powertrain technologies, Smart is positioning itself to appeal to a broader range of customers with varying needs and preferences.
Smart’s Future Strategy
Smart’s European division has indicated that the shift towards plug-in hybrids is a transitional step towards fully electric vehicles. The company recognizes the importance of accommodating diverse customer demands and desires, and sees hybrid drives as a viable technology for the future. This strategic shift aligns with the broader automotive industry trend towards electrification and sustainable mobility solutions, indicating that Smart is adapting to stay relevant in a rapidly changing market.
Market Trends and Consumer Preferences
The growing demand for plug-in hybrids in China, coupled with declining sales of PHEVs in Europe, highlights the importance of Smart’s decision to offer both electric and plug-in hybrid options. European consumers are showing a stronger preference for pure electric vehicles, with PHEV sales decreasing in 2024. Smart’s move to embrace plug-in hybrids reflects the brand’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of customers and staying competitive in key markets like China and Europe.
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