Smart introduces LFP-powered #1 ‘Pro’ model, priced under $40k

Following the launch of its all-electric compact crossover referred to as the #1, smart has launched a brand new decrease priced base mannequin referred to as the “Professional.” By switching to LFP batteries, the #1 Professional provides decrease vary than its trim siblings, however at a extra inexpensive value for shoppers.

Germany’s Sensible Vehicle Co., Ltd. was based within the ‘90s and has made a status for itself thanks compact vehicles designed specically for crowded city facilities. Today, the marque operates beneath mother or father firm Mercedes-Benz AG.

In 2019, good’s mother or father firm introduced a joint venture with Geely Holding Group to provide good badged vehicles in China as effectively. That very same yr, good started a drastic transition to electrification by dropping combustion engines for electrical powertrains solely.

In February of 2022, good unveiled its #1 compact crossover SUV as its true emergence as an all electrical model. Though good ceased promoting its fashions in North America in 2019, we’ve seen the #1 emerge in Europe, starting with 4 separate trims ranging in value.

Now, good has introduced a extra inexpensive base mannequin of the compact crossover that makes use of LFP batteries – excellent for shoppers who don’t must drive as far and need to avoid wasting money. Test it out.

Sensible #1 Professional provides energy value for much less vary

At the moment, good launched the #1 Professional – the most affordable version of its newest EV to this point. Opposite to its earlier trims housing 66 kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) batteries, the #1 Professional includes a smaller 49 kWh battery pack, outfitted with lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) cells.

Through the use of extra inexpensive batteries, good has been in a position to decrease the value of the #1 Professional by 5,000 euros ($5,265) in comparison with the #1 Professional+ – the earlier base mannequin. Beginning at an MSRP of 37,490 euros (~$39,475) the #1 Professional saves shoppers cash, however at the price of some vary.

The brand new model’s WLTP vary is about 300 km (186 miles), down from 400-440 km (249-273 miles) its current trims are presently providing with the bigger packs. Per good Europe CEO Dirk Adelmann:

We’re more than pleased to have the ability to reside as much as the expectations of city drivers, who focus extra on sensible issues like a very good physique to area ratio, and for whom a variety of round 300 Kilometers is totally adequate. The #1 Professional is a automobile for environmentally acutely aware metropolis dwellers and commuters who can’t do with out the premium high quality and all-electric strategy of the #1. At good, the wants of customers are all the time on the heart of our concerns. The Professional line comes with a bundle that caters for all the necessities of latest drivers, and at an awesome worth for cash ratio.

Trying forward, good says the brand new #1 Professional will initially launched in Europe this fall, starting with Germany, France, Spain, Italy and Switzerland. From there the brand new LFP-powered crossover will progressively launch within the different European good markets by the spring of 2024.