LONDON: The smart Concept #5 that was showcased in April this year is no longer a concept.
Smart today announced that the #5 would go into series production and would have its world premiere in Brisbane on Aug 28.
The last time CarSifu was in that Australian city was to experience a new 4WD vehicle from another brand in an offroad setting.
The #5 is known to get some offroading chops, so it would help Smart move into a new segment. It will be the most spacious model from Smart.
Its imminent arrival follows the rollout of the #1 and #3 SUVs, which are both now on sale in Malaysia.
Smart said in a statement that "as a multi-purpose, mid-size SUV, the #5 will open up a new segment for smart, catering to new target groups and consumers with an active lifestyle".
Designed by Mercedes-Benz Design, the vehicle will combine the unconventional smart aesthetic with robust functionality.
The vehicle’s exterior design is characterised by its boxy, upright silhouette, a distinctive roofline, and unexpected outdoor elements.
Offering a great amount of space and premium comfort, the #5 is designed to take its users outside of the city, reflecting the rising demand among customers leading active and flexible lifestyles.
Over the past few months, the #5 has demonstrated its outstanding outdoor capabilities in rigorous off-road and winter tests.
In particular, the performance of the electric powertrain, with the charging capability of the batteries were successfully tested under very cold conditions.
The driving dynamics, along with the assistance and safety systems, were also extensively evaluated in challenging off-road environments.
In preparation for entry into the European market in 2025, the vehicle will undergo an additional, highly comprehensive testing program in Europe.
Smart is a 50:50 joint venture between Mercedes-Benz AG and Geely Automobile Co, Ltd.
