Smart has officially unveiled its most ambitious electric vehicle yet – the Smart #5, a mid-sized electric SUV designed to directly challenge the Tesla Model Y and Toyota RAV4 in the competitive family SUV segment. The groundbreaking vehicle was revealed in Australia, marking Smart’s bold return to the local market after nearly a decade absence.
Revolutionary Design and Dimensions
The Smart #5 represents a significant leap forward for the brand, measuring 4,705mm in length – making it Smart’s largest vehicle to date. This positions it strategically between the RAV4 and Model Y in terms of size, while promising best-in-class rear passenger space and an impressive maximum boot capacity of 1,530 litres.
The boxy, contemporary design language reflects Smart’s positioning as a ‘contemporary adventurer’ vehicle, appealing to families seeking both urban sophistication and outdoor capability.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Features
Advanced Battery and Charging Technology
All Smart #5 variants will feature a substantial 100kWh battery pack, delivering an impressive 740km driving range based on China’s CLTC testing standards. The vehicle incorporates advanced 800V architecture, enabling rapid DC fast charging from 10-80% in just 15 minutes – a crucial feature for long-distance Australian travel.
This technology aligns with Australia’s National Electric Vehicle Strategy, which aims to accelerate EV adoption through improved charging infrastructure and vehicle availability.
Interior Innovation and Comfort
The cabin showcases dual 13.0-inch AMOLED screens spanning the dashboard, complemented by a massive 25.6-inch head-up display featuring augmented reality navigation. The ‘zero-gravity’ leather front seats offer a remarkable 121-degree recline angle, while rear passengers enjoy heated seats, adjustable seat-backs, electric sunshields, and airplane-style LED reading lights.
Game-Changing Entertainment Features
Built-in Cinema System
Perhaps the most revolutionary feature is the integrated projector mounted in the front grille, paired with a premium 20-speaker sound system and portable external speaker. This innovative setup transforms any camping location into an outdoor cinema, redefining recreational vehicle experiences.
Flexible Sleeping Configurations
The Smart #5’s flat-folding seating system can be configured into king-size, queen-size, or single sleeping arrangements, making it ideal for extended outdoor adventures and camping trips.
Model Variants and Off-Road Capability
Pro+ and Summit Editions
Two distinct variants will launch simultaneously – the base Pro+ and the rugged Summit edition. The Summit variant features additional off-road equipment including a roof light bar, electric trailer hitch, underbody protection, roof carrier, side steps, side bag, and side ladder.
Both models offer selectable driving modes including Adaptive, Sand, Snow, Mud, and Rock settings, ensuring capability across diverse Australian terrain conditions.
Market Launch and Availability
LSH Auto, Smart’s Australian distributor, expects the #5 to reach local markets by late 2025. This timeline aligns with Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard implementation, which encourages importation of more efficient vehicles.
Initial availability will be through LSH dealerships in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with potential expansion planned. Chinese deliveries will commence by end-2024, where the vehicle is manufactured.
The Smart #5 represents a significant evolution in electric SUV design, combining practical family functionality with innovative entertainment features and genuine off-road capability, positioning it as a compelling alternative in Australia’s rapidly expanding EV market.
Smart #5 Specifications Table
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 4,705mm |
| Battery Capacity | 100kWh |
| Driving Range | 740km (CLTC) |
| Charging Architecture | 800V |
| Fast Charging Time | 10-80% in 15 minutes |
| Boot Capacity | 1,530L maximum |
| Display Screens | Dual 13.0-inch AMOLED |
| Head-up Display | 25.6-inch AR navigation |
| Sound System | 20 speakers + portable unit |
| Drive Modes | Adaptive, Sand, Snow, Mud, Rock |
| Front Seat Recline | 121 degrees |
| Expected Launch | Late 2025 (Australia) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Smart #5 be available in Australia?
A: LSH Auto expects Australian deliveries to begin in late 2025, approximately 12 months after Chinese market launch.
Q: What is the pricing expected to be?
A: Pricing details haven’t been announced, but it’s expected to be positioned above the smaller Smart #1 and #3 models.
Q: Does the Smart #5 meet Australian safety standards?
A: Smart vehicles must comply with Australian Design Rules for electric vehicle safety before local sale.
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