smart #2 is undergoing a global testing programme ahead of its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October 2026. With the reinvention of its two-seater gathering momentum, the smart #2 has taken to the roads in a bespoke black-and-white camouflage livery, styled by the Mercedes-Benz Global Design Team
At dedicated proving grounds, the vehicle’s agility was tested against a range of real-world urban challenges such as unexpected obstacles, emergency lane changes, and low-grip wet road conditions. Continuous refinement of the chassis hard points, steering ratio, rack travel, and suspension movement control ensures the vehicle remains composed, responsive, and agile in city driving.
The physical testing programme also aims to ensure the compact vehicle can deliver an elevated cabin experience.
To ensure cabin comfort aligns with the vehicle’s aesthetic, extensive Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) validation across numerous demanding environments was conducted, including wind tunnel, acoustic chamber, temperature-controlled four-post rig, proving grounds, and public roads. The testing activities encompassed wind noise, road noise, powertrain NVH, thermal NVH, squeak and rattle, and sound quality optimisation.
Testing multiple tyre compounds on rough asphalt, grooved concrete, and high-speed straights, enabled engineers to find an optimal balance between low rolling resistance for maximum range and exceptional noise reduction. To achieve long-term reliability, the vehicle underwent durability testing over bumpy roads, continuous undulations, and potholed urban streets. Targeted impact tests simulated common city-driving scenarios such as striking deep potholes and mounting curbs.
By refining the chassis rigidity and structural stress points, the smart #2 can act as a highly reliable on-road companion. Complementing its structural resilience is the next-generation Tridion safety cell, which combines compact exterior dimensions with a robust structure to meet modern safety requirements, provide high protection, stability, and driver confidence.
As an all-electric two-seater city car, the smart #2 can navigate the challenges of modern urban environments with ease. Featuring the “wheels-at-the-corner” stance, a hallmark of smart fortwo’s space-maximising design since its first generation, it creates a solid geometric foundation for exceptional manoeuvrability.
The production model of the smart #2 is preparing for its official world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October 2026.
