Smart is about to launch its biggest car ever, the boxy #5 SUV and the Sino-German company (now co-owned by Mercedes and Chinese carmaker Geely) is showing off the massively powerful Brabus version of its new car.
Who is Brabus, exactly?
Brabus became famous as a tuner of Mercedes (and occasionally Porsche) products and was best known for doing wonderful things like shoe-horning a V12 engine into a C-Class. Brabus has also been Smart's official tuning partner since the early 2000s, and this time around, for the #5, it's managed to coax a whopping 645hp out of the car's twin electric motors.
That gives this roomy SUV a 0-100km/h time of just 3.8 seconds in launch control mode. Better yet, it's also fast to charge, with an 800-volt charging system that can accept as much as 400kW of DC charging power. This allows a 10-80 per cent battery top-up in just 18 minutes, although Smart says that's under 'optimal conditions.'
How far will the #5 Brabus go on one charge?
The #5 Brabus' one-charge range is a solid 540km, and while you're working through that you can be entertained by some bespoke Brabus synthesised engine noises.
To make the Brabus stand out from the rest of the #5 range, it gets 21-inch Monoblock Z wheels, red brake calipers, and Brabus trim for the cabin, including microfibre seats featuring 'Dinamica' accents. There are also front and rear heated seats, an Alcantara steering wheel rim, a panoramic roof with 'halo' lighting and microfibre lining, sports pedals, and ambient cabin lighting in 256 colours.
Anything else?
On the technology front, there are twin 13-inch digital screens for the instruments and infotainment and a Sennheiser Signature Sound System with 20 speakers and 1,190 watts of sound output, including full Dolby Atmos surround sound.
Dirk Adelmann, CEO of Smart Europe, said: “The smart #5 Brabus is the new flagship of our still young all-electric product portfolio. This vehicle embodies our vision of electric performance and redefines what customers can expect from an electric SUV with powerful dynamics, top connectivity features and the finest interior craftsmanship for an unmatched driving experience. With its advanced technology, the smart #5 Brabus sets new benchmarks across segments and shows our commitment to providing uncompromising electric mobility through a remarkable cooperation with our long-standing partner Brabus.”