Smart EQ fortwo cabrio (A453) 17.6 kWh (82 Hp)

The Smart EQ fortwo cabrio (A453) represents a unique entry in the burgeoning electric vehicle market, particularly as a compact, two-seater convertible. Produced from March 2018 to August 2019, this model is a significant evolution of the Smart fortwo lineage, transitioning from internal combustion engines to a fully electric powertrain. While Smart vehicles were never widely sold in the United States after 2019, the EQ fortwo cabrio was primarily aimed at the European market, where demand for small, efficient, and environmentally friendly city cars is high. It offered a novel combination of open-air motoring and zero-emission driving, appealing to a niche segment of urban drivers.

Smart EQ fortwo Cabrio (A453): An Overview

The A453 generation of the Smart fortwo, including the cabrio variant, marked a substantial redesign for the city car. The EQ fortwo cabrio specifically distinguishes itself with its retractable soft top, providing an open-air driving experience uncommon in the electric vehicle segment. Its compact dimensions and rear-wheel drive configuration contribute to its agility in tight urban environments. The vehicle’s focus is on providing a practical and enjoyable electric driving experience for city dwellers, prioritizing maneuverability and ease of parking over outright speed or long-distance range.

Engine & Performance

The Smart EQ fortwo cabrio is powered by a single electric motor producing 82 horsepower (Hp). This motor delivers 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque, providing surprisingly brisk acceleration for its size and weight. The powertrain is a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), meaning it relies entirely on electricity stored in a 17.6 kWh battery pack. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.8 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.2 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 130 km/h (80.78 mph). The focus isn’t on high-performance figures, but rather on providing adequate power for navigating city streets and maintaining comfortable cruising speeds. Energy consumption is rated at 13.0-13.1 kWh per 100 km (20.92 – 21.08 kWh per 100 miles), translating to an all-electric range of approximately 155 km (96.31 miles). This range is well-suited for typical urban commutes and errands.

Design & Features

The Smart EQ fortwo cabrio maintains the iconic, diminutive proportions of the fortwo family. Its two-door cabriolet body style features a retractable fabric roof, allowing for open-air driving. The vehicle’s compact size – measuring 2695 mm (106.1 in.) in length and 1663 mm (65.47 in.) in width – makes it exceptionally easy to maneuver and park in congested urban areas. Inside, the cabin is designed to maximize space for two occupants. While not luxurious, the interior offers essential features such as comfortable seating and a functional dashboard layout. Safety features include ventilated disc brakes on the front and disc brakes on the rear, along with electric power steering and a steering rack and pinion system. The trunk space, while limited, offers between 260 and 340 liters (9.18 – 12.01 cu. ft.) of storage depending on the roof position. The car’s design prioritizes practicality and efficiency, reflecting its intended use as a city runabout.

Technical Specifications

The Smart EQ fortwo cabrio (A453) represents a bold step towards sustainable urban mobility. While its production run was relatively short, it showcased the potential for combining electric power with the enjoyment of open-top motoring. Its compact size, nimble handling, and zero-emission operation made it a compelling option for environmentally conscious city dwellers, particularly in European markets where it found its greatest success.