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July 16, 2025 – The Smart #2 has just cleared a major regulatory hurdle in China, revealing its final production form without any camouflage. The Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) published certification images of the all-electric city car, giving us the clearest look yet at the model that will debut at the Paris Motor Show in October. This is the first time we see the production version, which stays remarkably close to the concept unveiled in April.
The MIIT photos confirm that the Smart #2 retains the iconic design cues of the original Smart ForTwo, but with a modern, electric spin. The compact proportions are unmistakable: a short wheelbase, tall body, and a playful front fascia. The production model adds a few practical touches – door handles, side mirrors, and a roof option – but the overall silhouette remains faithful to the concept. Notably, the distinctive front grille, which gave the concept a retro-futuristic look, is listed as an optional extra.
According to the filing, the Smart #2 measures 108.8 inches in length, 65.7 inches in width, 61.2 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 73.8 inches. That makes it roughly the same size as the original ForTwo, but slightly wider. The car sits on a dedicated EV platform, and its battery pack is integrated into the floor. The CLTC range is listed at nearly 249 miles. However, industry experts caution that the CLTC is the most optimistic testing cycle. In real-world US driving (EPA cycle), the range is expected to be around 180-200 miles, which would be competitive for a city-focused EV.
The Smart #2 is being developed primarily for the Chinese and European markets, but Smart’s parent company, the Geely-Mercedes joint venture, has confirmed plans to bring the brand back to the United States. Sources familiar with the matter suggest that the #2 could be the first Smart model to launch in North America, possibly as a 2028 model year. That timeline would align with the start of production in China (early 2027) and the necessary US homologation and certification.
If it reaches US shores, the Smart #2 will compete directly with the Mini Cooper Electric and the Fiat 500e, both of which are priced in the $30,000-$35,000 range. The #2’s smaller size and retro-inspired design could appeal to urban drivers looking for a parking-friendly, affordable EV. However, the absence of a US-built version (due to tariffs) may push the price higher than its Chinese and European versions.
The most notable change from the April concept is the simplification of the front end. The concept’s flush grille and hidden headlights have been replaced with more conventional, but still stylish, LED units. The wheels are slightly smaller, and the side mirrors are larger for safety compliance. The production car also gets a full-width rear light bar, which the concept lacked. Overall, the #2 retains the charm of the original ForTwo while adding a modern touch.
The Smart #2 enters a growing segment of compact electric city cars. In Europe, it will face the Renault Twingo E-Tech, the Citroën ë-C3, and the upcoming Volkswagen ID.2. In the US, the main competitors are the Mini Cooper Electric (which starts at $30,000) and the Fiat 500e (around $34,000). The #2’s advantage is its unique design heritage and compact footprint, which is ideal for dense urban environments. However, it lacks the Mini’s brand cachet and the Fiat’s Italian flair. To succeed, Smart will need to price the #2 competitively and offer a compelling range.
The #2 will be produced at Smart’s factory in Xi’an, China, which is a joint venture between Geely and Mercedes-Benz. The first customer deliveries are expected in early 2027 in China, followed by Europe in late 2027. A US launch, if confirmed, would likely happen in 2028 after the necessary EPA and DOT certification. Smart has not yet announced a price, but analysts estimate a starting price of around €25,000 in Europe (approx. $27,000 USD) and possibly $30,000-$32,000 in the US.
The Smart #2 represents a crucial step in the brand’s revival. After the discontinuation of the gas-powered ForTwo in the US in 2019, Smart has refocused on electric mobility. The #2 is the first model built on the new Geely architecture, and its success will determine whether Smart can reclaim its position as a leader in the city car segment. The certification images provide a clear sign that the production car is ready for the next phase, and the Paris Motor Show will be the stage for its official global debut.
Source: MIIT certification filings, industry analysis.
