Smart is preparing for the debut in China of its first #6 EHD saloon, an acronym for Extended Hybrid Drive, credited with a length of 4,906 mm and a range of around 1,800 km, making it the first hybrid variant, but also the largest for the brand that is jointly run by the Geely and Mercedes groups. From a brand of small two-door cars, the range that is produced in China has expanded to include suvs and crossovers. With the #6, Smart is pushing itself even further with an unprecedented model. The sedan combines extreme aerodynamics with shark-inspired details.
Prices will be announced at a later date
At the front, the bonnet incorporates functional air ducts that Smart has dubbed Bionic Shark Gills. At the rear, a four-position adjustable spoiler is supposed to recall the movement of a shark’s tail. Other details include sharp body lines with LED headlights connected by a central grille element and full-width LED tail lights integrated into a rear panel. Prices for the #6 will be announced at a later date. A global launch is planned after China.
The length brings it closer to a Mercedes E-Class
With a length of 4,906 mm, the Smart #6 is in the luxury saloon sector, so much so that it is closer to a Mercedes E-Class than to any other Smart model so far produced. The 2,926 mm wheelbase is the longest ever made by the brand, which, however, should translate into a more spacious cabin. The interior hasn’t been revealed yet, but the first spy photos leaked on the net suggest that the cabin will feature a very high centre tunnel, as well as a large infotainment display credited with the latest technology. All similar to that of the Smart #5.
Under the bonnet exclusively electrified engines
The Smart #6 is based on Geely’s PMA2+ architecture, a further evolution of the SEA platform, also widely used on other models from the Chinese giant Geely such as the Zeekr 007 and its GT counterpart. The EHD, which stands for Extended Hybrid Drive, uses Geely’s NordThor 2.0 system. It combines a 1,500 cc turbocharged petrol engine with a front-mounted electric motor delivering a combined power output of 435 hp. Perhaps the most remarkable figure, however, is the claimed range of around 1,810 km, of which more than 285 km is in fully electric mode.
