Smart #5 Is An Electric Crossover With Supercar Levels Of Power

Smart is known for its cutesy and compact city cars, but the rejuvenated brand is expanding its horizons. The new Smart #5 represents a drastic departure for the brand, with large exterior dimensions and up to 638 hp on tap. Leaked in pictures published by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the production-ready electric SUV is an evolution of the Smart Concept #5, which debuted in April.

While not as rugged as the concept on which it’s based, the #5 is a stylish crossover that will appeal to the masses. The squared-off styling is similar to recent electric Kia models, such as the EV5 and EV9. Unlike Smart models of old, and later models like the #1, the new SUV is relatively large. It measures 185.2 inches long, 75.6 inches wide, and 67.1 inches tall. That is about the same size as the Q6 e-tron, making this unusual territory for the automaker. The wheelbase is a generous 114.2 inches. Wheel sizes range between 18 and 21 inches in size.

Extremely Heavy, But Very Powerful

Top-spec models are rather portly, tipping the scales at a groan-inducing 5,401 lbs. That makes this mid-size crossover heavier than the new BMW 7 Series. But that shouldn’t be a problem, depending on the chosen drivetrain. Two single-motor RWD models produce 335 and 358 hp, respectively, and two dual-motor AWD variants offer combined outputs of 579 hp and a heady 638 hp.

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That means the top-spec model has more power than a Lamborghini Huracán Evo, which is incredible. Buyers can expect a top speed of 124 mph, but the most powerful model can hit 130 mph. According to CarNewsChina, the RWD models use lithium iron phosphate batteries, while the AWD trims utilize a nickel manganese cobalt pack. Unfortunately, there’s no information on the capacity yet.

Sophisticated Architecture, Strong Estimated Range

Reports suggest the #5 will have an 800-volt architecture – like the new Porsche Macan EV – allowing for rapid charging times. A 435-mile range is expected, although this has likely been estimated using the generous CLTC cycle. The Concept #5 had a 100 kWh battery pack that the company claims could be charged from 10-80% in just 15 minutes. A claimed range of 341 miles is sufficient.

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Should the #5 reach America – Smart pulled out of the United States years ago – we expect a more realistic EPA range estimate. If there were ever a time to make a return, it would be now, as consumers adore powerful crossovers with trendy styling. However, its arrival in America is very unlikely. Both the Smart #1 and #3 are produced in China, and the #5 will likely be built there too. As a result, it would be hit with a hefty 102% tariff as the United States government has increased tariffs on Chinese-built electric vehicles. We expect the #5 to be launched in China and Europe sometime this year.

Source:
CarNewsChina