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Washington, D.C., October 26, 2023 – The high-performance electric smart #5 BRABUS is now available in a striking new, limited-run color variant. Dubbed the Laser Red Edition, this model turns heads with its vibrant exterior while maintaining the formidable technical specifications of the standard BRABUS model.
For the Laser Red Edition, smart's focus is purely on aesthetics and exclusivity. The new paint job is a vivid, high-gloss red that accentuates the SUV's muscular, wide-bodied stance and aggressive BRABUS styling elements. This edition does not introduce any mechanical upgrades, reinforcing that buyers are investing in a distinctive look and limited availability rather than enhanced performance. It is a model designed for those who want their performance EV to make a visual statement as bold as its acceleration.
Underneath the eye-catching paint, the vehicle remains mechanically identical to the standard smart #5 BRABUS. It features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain generating a substantial 475 kW (646 horsepower) and 710 Nm of torque. This setup rockets the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.8 seconds, with a top speed capped at 210 km/h (130 mph). The 100 kWh battery, built on an 800-volt architecture, supports a WLTP-estimated range of 540 kilometers (335 miles) and can recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 15 minutes using a DC fast charger.
The cabin and feature set also carry over from the flagship BRABUS variant. The interior is appointed with Alcantara and Dinamica microsuede upholstery. Drivers get access to a dedicated BRABUS drive mode, an AMD V2000 processor-powered infotainment system, the full suite of BRABUS exterior styling components, and comprehensive driver-assistance technologies.
"The smart #5 BRABUS has already redefined expectations of what an all-electric performance SUV can be, combining exhilarating power with premium comfort and cutting-edge technology," said Mr. Zhang Qiang, CEO of PRO-NET. "With the introduction of the new Laser Red Edition, we are offering customers an even more expressive and distinctive way to experience the pinnacle of the smart brand. Its limited availability makes it a truly special addition to the smart #5 family."
The launch is currently specific to the Malaysian market, where the Laser Red Edition is priced at RM259,800 (approximately $55,000 USD). This positioning places it at the premium end of the performance EV SUV segment locally. For context, cross-shopping customers in that market would likely consider vehicles like the Tesla Model Y Performance, BYD Sealion 7 Performance, Xpeng G6, and the related Zeekr 7X, which shares its fundamental architecture with the smart #5.
Exclusive Perspective: A Strategic Niche Play in a Crowded EV Market The introduction of a color-limited edition like the Laser Red Edition is a classic automotive strategy, but it takes on new significance in the electric vehicle era. For smart, a brand re-establishing itself globally with a focus on premium electric mobility, this move serves multiple purposes. First, it generates fresh media buzz and showroom traffic for an existing model without the R&D cost of a mechanical update. Second, it directly targets a key demographic for performance vehicles: enthusiasts who value exclusivity and personalization. In a segment where competitors often compete on raw specs and autonomous tech, smart is leveraging design and scarcity as potent differentiators. This tactic could be a precursor to similar limited editions in other markets, including North America and Europe, as the brand gauges consumer appetite for highly customized, visually distinct electric vehicles.
Availability of the Laser Red Edition is on a strictly limited, first-come-first-served basis in Malaysia. Interested buyers are directed to check inventory at official smart showrooms or via the brand's local website. The standard smart #5 lineup in Malaysia starts at RM209,800 for the Premium variant, with the BRABUS model beginning at the RM259,800 point now shared by this special edition.
