Spied: smart #1 And smart #1 Brabus Spotted Testing In Malaysia

CariCarz.com has obtained the following spyshots through WhatsApp messenger earlier today that show both the smart #1 and its sporty smart #1 Brabus twin being sighted in Malaysia. Both appears to be undergoing initial road tests in full camouflage, with one even spotted at a public EV charging station.

We are unable to verify when and where this was taken, but the lower intakes arrangement in the bumper clearly indicates this being the base smart #1 model. (Source: WhatsApp)

We are unable to verify as to when and where the first image was taken, but a closer look at the front bumper, specifically with the arrangement of its lower intakes, seems to indicate that this is the base smart #1 model.

As detailed prior, this EV hatch designed by Mercedes-Benz underpins Geely’s new SEA EV platform architecture that houses a 66 kWh lithium-ion battery pack plus a rear-mounted motor rated at 268 HP and 343 NM. It also promises anywhere between 420 40 440 KM in range (WLTP cycle).

Spotted charging up at the Gentari Sunway Serene EV charging hub, note the distinct intake arrangement in the bumper that denotes this being the smart #1 Brabus. (Source: WhatsApp)

As for the second image, we are also unable to verify when it was snapped, but we’re certain it was taken at the Gentari EV charging hub in Sunway Serene, Petaling Jaya. If you look closely at the camouflaged smart #1 in said image, you’ll see both the added vents on the hood and distinct front bumper intakes.

Those two traits more or less confirms that the model spotted here is the hotter smart #1 Brabus variant. Unlike the base #1 mentioned, this one harnesses a peppier dual-motor setup instead to drive all four wheels (instead of the just rear) with 422 HP and 543 NM.

Both the smart #1 Brabus (left) and the base smart #1 hatch (right) during the 2022 smart Performance Day track event in China.

The sighting of both is perhaps indication that both the brand and model are set for an official launch very soon. To recap, the smart brand, now co-owned by China’s Geely Group and Mercedes-Benz, is being rebooted in Malaysia by national carmaker Proton through its Pro-Net subsidiary.

Initial conversations we had with Proton’s Deputy CEO Roslan Abdullah last year indicated that the smart automobiles brand and its #1 model would be shown to Malaysians as early as May this year. Plenty has transpired since then, perhaps explaining the slight delay, but everything appears on track for possible launch circa Q3 or Q4.

Ahead of which, Pro-Net has been busy establishing a dealership network for the brand, which includes prominent partners such as Hap Seng Group via its Hap Seng Smart subsidiary. Joining them are five other key dealers appointed by Pro-Net last month.

Insiders at Pro-Net have hinted to CariCarz.com of a possible starting price close to the RM200,000 mark for the base smart #1.

As for price, Pro-Net hasn’t given any indications yet, but insider sources have hinted to CariCarz.com that the base smart #1 will see a starting price hovering close to the RM200,000 mark. Yes, much stiffer than the RM150,000 estimate many hoped for, but given the EV market climate, this was somewhat expected.

We’ll have more updates as we get them. In the meantime, given the hinted possible price, would you still fancy the smart #1 or its sporty smart #1 Brabus twin? Or would you rather opt for more affordable alternatives such as the BYD Atto 3, GWM Ora Good Cat, or perhaps the bargain basement Neta V offering?