Mercedes-Benz Announces Pricing On All-New Smart Fortwo Electric Drive

Mercedes-Benz to offer one of the most affordable electric cars on the market

May 22, 2017 -- Atlanta -- Mercedes-Benz USA today announced pricing for the 2017 smart fortwo electric drive coupe and cabrio. Arriving in U.S. dealers this summer, the smart electric drive coupe will start at just $23,800* and the electric drive cabrio at $28,000*, excluding federal and state incentives. At launch, the smart electric drive cabrio will also be the only electric drive convertible on the market.

The all-new smart electric drive will be $1,200 less expensive than the outgoing model, with improved range, more power, more space and additional standard features. The next-generation smart electric drive makes opting into electric mobility more attractive than ever, combining overall agility with emission-free driving as an ideal combination for urban mobility.

For 2017, the smart electric drive features significant advantages and new features, including a more powerful electric motor, a higher top speed and faster AC charging time with a higher power onboard charger. Additional standard features of the new model now include Cruise Control and battery warranty.

Offered in pure, passion and prime trims (pure n/a on cabrio), the electric drive features new value-added packages and options, including an exclusive Electric Green tridion cell color and optionally available Climate Package, which includes heated seats, a heated steering wheel and provides additional insulation for climate control, comfort and efficiency.

Charge time is an important factor for electric vehicle customers and the new smart electric drive boasts major improvements here as well. All models have a new, powerful 7 kW on-board charger as a standard feature. In the U.S., charging time is an estimated 2.5 hours – about twice as fast as the predecessor (0-80% charge on 240V wallbox).

An 80 hp electric motor is situated at the rear of the smart electric drive and transmits its power via a constant ratio to the rear wheels. Powerful torque of 118 lb-ft is immediately available from a standstill, a 23% increase over the 96 lb-ft offered by the previous generation smart electric drive. The electric drive has an estimated range of approximately 70-80 miles – ideal for emission-free mobility in urban areas.

The open-top two-seater cabrio is three cars in one: at the touch of a button the smart electric drive cabrio is transformed from a closed two-seater into a car with a large sliding canvas sunroof, or a full-fledged cabriolet with the soft top completely open. This enables the fresh air driving experience to be adapted to the weather or the driver's mood. This flexibility offered by the 'tritop' folding soft top and the removable roof bars is a special class-leading feature.

The new smart electric drive stands out for its innovation, intelligent design and safety features and electric mobility. The new generation is poised to continue its pioneering role in its segment and will be available in U.S. dealerships this summer.

Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz
posted on conceptcarz.com