smart #2 begins testing on brand-new electric platform

smart is taking the next big step in its electric future. The all-new smart #2 has officially begun its intensive testing phase, doing so on a completely newly developed Electric Compact Architecture (ECA) platform. With that, the brand opens a new chapter for the iconic two-seater that redrew city traffic almost thirty years ago.

The world premiere is scheduled for 2026, but behind the scenes, development is already running at full speed.

Compact roots, completely new foundation

To validate the new ECA platform under realistic conditions, smart chose a clever engineering solution: the technology of the smart #2 is currently being tested under the body of the current smart fortwo. This lets engineers immediately confirm that the new #2 stays true to the ultra-compact dimensions that made the brand what it is.

More importantly: the essence remains intact. The smart #2 stays a two-door, two-seat city car with rear-wheel drive and the recognisable ‘wheels-at-the-corners’ stance. That DNA is the starting point for a complete reinterpretation of the modern city car.

A new era for the iconic two-seater

Although the foundation remains recognisable, the smart #2 is much more than an evolution. The model gets a completely new interior and exterior, designed by the Mercedes-Benz design team. The new ECA architecture makes way for a next-generation electric powertrain, modern safety structures and software ready from day one for a connected, urban lifestyle.

smart promises a driving experience fully tuned to city life, but with a mature refinement that goes beyond anything the segment offers today.

Global testing programmes under extreme conditions

The test vehicles are deployed worldwide to refine every aspect of the smart #2. On test tracks in China, the focus is on, among other things, ride comfort, agility, braking performance and structural stiffness, crucial factors for a car that needs to feel at home in busy city traffic.

In parallel, tests are taking place elsewhere around crash safety, suspension durability, battery performance, software validation and climate systems under a wide range of conditions. Every component is being validated with an eye on series production and everyday reliability.

On course for a world premiere in 2026

With this testing phase, smart confirms that development of the #2 is perfectly on schedule. When the model is officially unveiled in 2026, it needs to set new standards once again in the segment smart itself once invented.

The mission is clear: build the ultimate electric city car, compact on the outside, smart on the inside and fully ready for the future of urban mobility.