The electric vehicle (EV) market in Nepal is rapidly expanding, with new and innovative models regularly entering the scene. Among the most anticipated arrivals is the Smart #1 Electric Crossover SUV, which is set to launch soon in Nepal. CG Motors, the authorized distributor for Smart Automobile, is set to launch the Smart #1 and Smart #3 in Nepal shortly. The Smart #1 is a fully electric sub-compact crossover SUV, offering a mix of cutting-edge technology, impressive driving range, and a design tailored for urban environments.

Smart Automobile, a 50-50 joint venture between Mercedes-Benz AG and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, designed the Smart #1 and #3, with manufacturing in China. The rear design of both models reflects Mercedes' influence. The Smart #1 is built on Geely's Sustainable Electric Architecture (SEA) platform, the world’s first open-source platform supporting various vehicle types. It will be offered across 3 variants in Nepal: Pro, Pro+, and Performance.

The Smart #1 is powered by an efficient electric motor, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. It will be available in three variants, each equipped with a 200 kW permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) that generates a max power of 272 PS and a max torque of 343 Nm. The Pro variant has a 49 kWh LFP battery with a 310 km range and takes about 7 hours to charge from 0 to 100% using a 7.2 kW AC Charger. The Pro+ and Premium variants feature a 66 kWh LFP battery with ranges of 420 km and 440 km, respectively, and require around 10 hours to charge fully. All variants can charge 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes with a 130 kW DC Charger.

The Smart #1 features a sleek and modern design. It features LED headlights with slim strip drls, a 15-litre frunk space, and a panoramic glass roof. It rides on 19-inch alloy wheels and offers duo leather seats with front heated seats. Inside, it boasts a 12.8-inch slidable central screen, a 9.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 10-inch head-up display in the premium variant. The premium version also includes a 13-speaker sound system. Additional features include Android Auto and Apple Car Play, a wireless charger, and dual-zone AC.

The Smart #1 Electric Crossover SUV is designed with a comprehensive suite of safety features. The safety features include 7 airbags, electronic stability control, a 360-degree camera, front and rear sensors, an active lane-keeping system, blind spot assist, lane change assist, traffic sign information, and a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. It also features tubeless tyres and disc brakes. The suspension duties are handled by McPherson strut at the front and rear multi-link.  

The vehicle measures 4270 mm in length, 1822 mm in width, and 1636 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2750 mm and a ground clearance of 182 mm. The kerb weight for the Pro and Pro+ variants is 1788 kg, while the Premium variant weighs 1800 kg. It offers a boot space of 313 litres, which can be expanded to 986 litres. All variants of the #3 can achieve a top speed of 180 km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds.

The smart #1 price in Nepal is yet to be revealed. For more information on pricing and variants, we'll need to wait for the official launch. However, neither the Smart #1 nor the #3 will be featured at NADA 2024. According to company officials, Smart vehicles will be introduced following the NADA. However, they have assured that the #1 and #3 models will be launched very soon thereafter. Stay tuned for more updates and be ready to experience the future of driving with the Smart #1. 

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