What's the news?
Smart has now revealed the concept car it will be taking to this year's Frankfurt Motor Show and naturally, it's as bonkers as ever. Its designers say that the 'fourjoy' represents the future of sporty, four-seater Smart models, with some extra toys thrown in for good measure.
Exterior
The eagle-eyed among you will have noticed that the Smart fourjoy is missing something... or rather many things. Doors, windows and a roof are common on most cars, but the fourjoy does without; and uses a combination of pearlescent white paint with polished aluminium to make it look as futuristic as possible. The front and rear lights are comprised of nothing but LEDs; and the headlights don't even have covers on them. The absence of front and rear overhangs harks back to the original Smart too; and its trademark tridon cell structure now stands out more than ever. Massive chrome rims are also a not-so-subtle feature.
Interior
The futuristic theme continues inside, which, thanks to its lack of bodywork, is on display permanently. The seats look like items straight from an interior design catalogue, finished in white and chrome to mimic the exterior. A dark-coloured floor gives the impression the seats are floating too; especially as they are supported by the continuous centre console. The steering wheel features just a single-spoke and is shaped to match the rear light clusters. Its dashboard is also quirky, featuring touch-sensitive, illuminated plexiglass and mountings for two smartphones.
Mechanicals
Being a concept destined for the city, it has to be electric. A 55kW magneto-electric motor resides underneath and it's hooked up to a 17.6kWh battery pack. Range is undetermined, but Smart says that when the battery is empty it can take less than one hour to recharge when using the on-board 22kW charger and a fast-charge cable.
Anything else?
Well, that's pretty much it... aside from the goodies residing where the roof should be. Here you'll find two electric skateboards complete with helmets stowed under the rear seats. Furthermore, the fourjoy comes complete with a HD camera, allowing friends to share each other's skateboard outings (read wipeouts).
The Smart fourjoy will make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show that opens on 10th September.
James Giddings - 5 Sep 2013