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Smart has pulled the wraps off a new concept car that previews a new mid-size SUV. The Concept #5 made its debut at the Beijing Motor Show in China, where the brand builds its two other models, the #1 and #3.
Described as a car aimed at buyers with an ‘outdoor lifestyle’ who want to venture further afield the #5 features a more utilitarian, off-road look than its more traditional siblings. Although smart hasn’t given any dimensions, it’s understood that the concept model will be larger than the brand’s two existing models, which would make it similar in size to cars like the Škoda Enyaq, Nissan Ariya and Hyundai KONA.
The Concept #5 features an 800 volt electrical system, which delivers significantly faster charging times than the 400 volt system fitted to the #1 and #3. It also features a much bigger battery pack with a capacity of ‘more than 100kWh’. Smart claims that despite the size of the pack, the 800 volt architecture means that a 10-80% charge can be completed in just 15 minutes in perfect conditions. Surprisingly given the size of the battery, smart claims a somewhat modest driving range figure of 341 miles – a figure that current offerings with significantly smaller batteries already offer. The Concept also features five driving modes along with a host of safety and semi-autonomous driving functions.
Inside, the #5 features a number of design touches already seen in the #1 and #3, including the raised centre console and ‘floating bridge’ element that effectively divides the front passenger space. A large tri-screen infotainment display dominates the dashboard rail with the two largest OLED screens appearing in the centre and ahead of the passenger. Powered by a new AMD V2000 chip, the screens provide access to the vehicle’s functions.
The centre console houses a portable speaker while the front passenger seats feature a leg rest along with heating, ventilation, massage functions. According to smart, the seats also feature new airbags that providing high safety in the event of a collision.
The #5 introduces a new level of AI assistance via the updated infotainment system. Developed by generative AI specialists, Cerence, it enables the driver and passengers to engage the virtual in-car assistant in what smart describes as ‘entertaining conversations’. It uses intelligent in-vehicle interaction technologies powered by AI to provide accurate and relevant answers to almost any question imaginable.
The production version of the Concept #5, which (surprisingly) is likely to be called just #5, is set to be be revealed later this year. The production version is expected to go on sale in the UK early next year.
