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From fuel vehicles to electric vehicles: the amazing evolution of the second-generation Smart ED!
With the global emphasis on sustainable development and environmental protection, the public's demand for electric vehicles has also increased. The Smart brand has always occupied a place in the field of urban mini-cars, and its electric vehicle series is an important milestone for it to move into the future. This article will lead you to review the evolution of the second generation Smart Electric Drive (Smart ED), from the initial fuel vehicle to the current electric vehicle, and how it has changed the way we travel.
The first generation: taking the first step
The success of the first generation Smart ED laid the foundation for future development, but due to its long recharging time, it is generally considered unsuitable for private car owners and is mainly used in the rental market. The results of these tests give Smart a deeper understanding of the market demand for electric vehicles.The first generation Smart Electric Drive (ED) was field tested in London in 2007 with 100 vehicles. The vehicles are retrofitted with technology from Zytek Electric Vehicles and equipped with 13.2 kWh sodium-nickel chloride batteries. Due to its operating temperature of up to 245°C, this battery is mainly suitable for multi-user fleet operations such as taxis and police cars.
Second generation: technology optimization and market expansion
In 2009, the second generation Smart ED (Smart ED2) was officially launched, equipped with a 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery provided by Tesla as standard. Its maximum endurance reaches 135 kilometers, which makes it an ideal choice for urban travel. Smart realized the real demand from customers for electric vehicles and began mass-producing electric models.The launch of the second generation not only reflects the improvement of technology, but also fully demonstrates Smart’s layout thinking in the electric vehicle market.With the increasing market demand, more than 2,000 Smart ED2 units were produced in a short period of time. This generation of models not only received enthusiastic response in the European market, but also successfully entered the US market.
The third generation: further innovation
In 2011, the third generation Smart ED (Smart ED3) was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The electric motor of this generation of models is more powerful, the acceleration performance is significantly improved, and the cruising range is increased to 140 kilometers. This not only means a stronger driving experience, but also greatly improves the practicality of electric vehicles.The launch of this generation demonstrates Smart’s continuous efforts on the road to intelligence and electrification, as well as its forward-looking thinking about future travel methods.Through smartphone apps, drivers can control many functions in the car in real time, marking the arrival of smart driving vehicles and making them an unprecedented technological means of transportation.
Fourth Generation: An All-Electric Future
Over time, Smart continues to optimize its battery technology and vehicle performance. In 2017, the fourth-generation Smart Electric Drive went on sale, marking the brand's complete shift to the all-electric vehicle market. This architecture allows Smart to regain its place in the mature automotive market.With the launch of various electric models, Smart's electric vehicle series is gradually occupying a place in the market and is becoming increasingly important in the context of global sustainable travel.This generation of models has a range of up to 58 miles and uses advanced charging technology, which indicates that the future of electric vehicles will be even better.
