New Smart #1 Brabus is a 422bhp all-electric family SUV
The hot Brabus variant of the all-electric Smart #1 also offers a sporty exterior makeover
Earlier this year we saw the debut of the new Smart #1, and now there’s a performance-orientated Brabus version. Smart (joint-owned by Daimler and Geely) and Mercedes-tuner Brabus have had a long-standing relationship that will extend into Smart’s rebirth as an all-electric brand.
It’s not the first time Brabus has worked on an all-electric car with the new Mercedes EQS receiving performance and cosmetic tweaks from the tuner. The tuner also revealed the Brabus 92R last year - a sportier version of the all-electric Smart EQ fortwo.
Now Brabus has turned its attention to the #1 small SUV, improving performance and adding more exclusivity and driver-focused appeal.
Based on the Geely SEA platform, the #1 Brabus has a pair of motors – one on each axle – delivering four-wheel drive and a total output of 422bhp and 543Nm of torque for a 0-62mph time of 3.9 seconds. Styling revisions include a deeper, more aggressive front bumper and narrow cooling vents in the bonnet. The Brabus model has 19-inch alloys and red styling details that contrast with the car’s matt grey body.
There’s plenty of leather and micro-fibre inside to add a racier feel, plus red detailing for the stitching, headrests and LED lighting, along with a three-spoke Brabus steering wheel. It retains the regular model’s 10-inch digital dash and 12.8-inch infotainment.
While there’s no word yet on revisions to the chassis (Smart is claiming 50:50 weight distribution), there’s a choice of Eco, Comfort, Sport and Brabus driving modes. It will also feature a special augmented soundtrack.
The hottest Smart #1 in the line-up retains the regular car’s 66kWh battery for a claimed range of 500km (310 miles) on the Chinese testing cycle, but due to the Brabus version’s increased performance expect the claimed range to drop below the standard #1’s 273-mile maximum on the EU WLTP test. Recharging capability remains at 150kW, so a 10-80 per cent top-up takes less than 30 minutes.
Revealed at the Chengdu Motor Show in China, there’s no word yet on UK pricing, but Auto Express understands that the Brabus will make it to the UK following the launch of the regular #1 later this year.
Now check out our favourite small electric cars here…
