2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive review

What's it like?

The Fortwo ED is absolutely conventional to drive, and therein lies the core of its appeal. There is no need to familiarise yourself with its operating procedure; you just jump in and go. And thanks to its pint-sized dimensions and a superbly tight turning circle, it’s a good deal of fun in an urban environment.

A new electronic management system provides finer throttle adjustment than with the old model, allowing you to meter out the power in more precise doses as you crawl along with the traffic. A good slug of torque is never far away, though. An earnest nudge on the accelerator sees the rear end settle on its rear springs before the electric motor propels the ED down the road with surprising vigour.

The operation of the electric motor is pleasingly smooth and absolutely seamless. The inherent responsiveness and braking effect as electric energy is regenerated on the overrun makes the Fortwo highly convenient and quite entertaining in the cut and thrust of heavy city traffic. The energy recuperation system employs a radar-based sensor to provide anticipatory operation. It continuously monitors the traffic conditions and sets an energy recuperation level that suits the driving conditions.

As a result, the off-throttle braking effect varies. There’s also an Eco mode, activated by a simple press of a button next to the gear selector. It adjusts the mapping of the throttle and limits top speed to provide more efficient operation and a longer range.    

Altogether, the electric motor, electronic management system and battery bring an added 140kg to the Fortwo, increasing its kerb weight to 1010kg. Acceleration up to typical city speed limits is quite solid, as borne out by an official 0-31mph time of 4.9sec. Smart also claims a 0-62mph time of 11.5sec in coupé guise, although the instant-on torque effect from a standing start subjectively makes it feel a good deal quicker. 

By placing the battery low down in the body structure, Smart has provided the Fortwo ED with a lower centre of gravity than its petrol-engine siblings. It also receives firmer springs and dampers. As a result, its body movements are better controlled. The added weight has also contributed to a more settled ride, particularly at lower speeds, although the steering is exceedingly light and lacking in any real feedback. Overall, it feels more mature than its predecessor, with greater compliance within the chassis and improved levels of rolling refinement.    

Smart argues that the claimed 100-mile range is more than most buyers will require on a daily basis, but we struggled to coax more than 75 miles out of the Fortwo ED.

Should I buy one?