In a departure from its usual focus on high-octane Mercedes vehicles, Brabus has taken the electric smart #1 under its wing. This Chinese-made crossover has undergone a comprehensive Brabus transformation, shedding its practical EV persona for a sportier, eye-catching makeover.
The renowned tuner’s touch is undeniable, evident from the exterior’s aerodynamic revisions and cosmetic enhancements to the driver-oriented upgrades within the cabin.
Rumors even hint at Brabus tinkering under the hood, possibly infusing the electric drivetrain with a performance boost for a more exhilarating driving experience.
The result is a smart #1 that transcends its original identity, offering a unique combination of thrilling dynamics, luxurious comfort, and eco-friendly performance a standout proposition in the ever-expanding electric vehicle market.
But what exactly does the Brabus treatment entail? Let’s delve deeper and explore the specific modifications that Brabus has implemented to raise smart #1 to new heights.
On the exterior, expect a more aggressive aesthetic courtesy of a new front spoiler with aerodynamic winglets, side air intake attachments, a rear spoiler, and a rear apron insert.
Brabus claims these components serve a functional purpose beyond mere aesthetics, reducing lift at the front axle for improved stability at high speeds and enhancing the aerodynamic balance.
The transformation continues inside the cabin with a touch of Brabus refinement. Here, the focus is on subtle yet impactful upgrades, including scuff plates emblazoned with backlit Brabus logos, a set of aluminum pedals for a more tactile driving experience, and special floor and trunk mats featuring red embroidery and the Brabus emblem.
The interior is further bolstered by piping and decorative seams, creating a sportier and more luxurious ambiance. Brabus doesn’t just throw more horsepower at Smart #1; it takes a multi-faceted approach to enhance its performance.
A critical addition is a second electric motor, bringing the total to two and enabling all-wheel drive for improved handling and traction. This upgrade translates to a significant power boost – Brabus quotes a combined output of 422 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.
That’s a hefty increase of nearly 150 horsepower and torque compared to the standard version. The performance gains are undeniable, with a 0-62 mph sprint time of just 3.9 seconds, shaving almost a full second off the standard car.
While Brabus stays silent on the performance figures for their latest iteration, they focus on the handling upgrade. They achieve this by incorporating lowering springs that bring the car’s body 35mm closer to the ground, enhancing its agility and cornering capabilities.