Daimler released this week the first sketches of the new Smart For-us Concept, which will have its world debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The 2012 NAIAS will take place between 14 and 22 January, next year. The Smart For-us concept shows that the carmaker did not yet give up the idea of an open-top roadster based on their small model. However, the For-us concept is not your average roadster, as it's also a small pick-up. In fact, Smart calls the new concept an "urban pickup". Naturally, the new For-us concept is designed to appeal to the younger generation. It focuses on a customer with an active life style, who looks for a low-emissions vehicle to get around the crowded city.
In terms of design, the Smart For-us Concept goes for a robust look, with short overhangs for good maneuverability. One of the main highlights of Smart's For-us is its electric tailboard, which is able to retract by 280 mm to allow easy access. The For-us has a 900-mm long cargo area, which should be enough for your daily shopping needs.
The Smart For-us is a two-seater, which offers quite a unique interior design. With aerodynamic styling for the cockpit, the For-us features a Smartphone where you would expect to find the rear-view mirror. Don't worry! You'll still be able to see what's behind you, as the Smartphone will project a rear view through the car's integrated video camera.
Smart's For-us Concept measures 3547 mm in length, 1506 mm in height and 1701 mm in width. It has a 2480-mm wheelbase and a 50-mm wider track. Its power comes from a 55 kW magneto-electric motor, which has zero emissions. The Smart For-us promises to offer 130 Nm of torque and a top speed of 120 km/h. Its battery has a 17.6 kWh capacity. Smart says that the For-us will offer lag-free acceleration, which is a lot more useful in urban traffic, than a high top speed.
We'll have more details regarding the Smart Forus Concept at the time of its premiere.
