2018 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive preview2018 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive preview

The redesigned 2018 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive debuted just before the recent the 2016 Paris Motor Show.
It switches over to the current-generation ForTwo platform, introduced as a gasoline-powered coupe version for the 2016 model year.
As with the outgoing-generation model, the 2018 ForTwo Electric Drive will be available as either a coupe or convertible.
DON’T MISS: 2018 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive details released before Paris Motor Show
It will likely continue to be the only all-electric convertible available in the U.S.
Smart will also offer an Electric Drive version of the four-door ForFour model, which is currently sold only in Europe.
All three body styles use the same platform co-developed by Smart parent Daimler and the Renault-Nissan Alliance.
2017 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive
(That platform is also used by the Renault Twingo hatchback, although—despite Renault’s proficiency with electric cars—that model is not offered with an electric powertrain.)
The ForTwo Electric Drive’s electric motor sends 59 kilowatts (80 horsepower) and 118 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels.
That allows the ForTwo Electric Drive coupe to reach 60 mph from a standstill in 11.4 seconds, according to Smart, while the convertible Cabrio takes 11.7 seconds.
ALSO SEE: Smart Electric Drive has a little Renault-Nissan underneath
Top speed for both models is electronically limited to 81 mph.
A 17.6-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack provides a claimed 99 miles of range for the hardtop ForTwo Electric Drive, and 96 miles for the Cabrio.
However, those estimates from Smart are based on the notoriously optimistic European testing cycle.
2017 Smart ForTwo Cabrio Electric Drive
U.S. EPA range ratings will likely be closer to the 68 miles achieved by the current-generation ForTwo Electric Drive in both coupe and convertible forms.
Unlike most other manufacturers—which are pushing for ranges of at least 100 miles—Smart appears content to stick with a relatively short range for its electric car.
A full recharge of the 2018 ForTwo Electric Drive’s battery pack will take approximately 2.5 hours using a 240-volt AC Level 2 charging station, Smart says.
MORE: 2018 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive prototype: first ride impressions
The carmaker has not discussed whether it will offer a DC fast-charging option on the redesigned model.
The 2018 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive coupe goes on sale in the U.S. in Spring 2017, and the convertible Cabrio will follow in the summer.
Pricing information for both models will be available closer to their launch dates.
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