Premium electric vehicle brand smart announced it now operates in 39 markets worldwide after launching in 10 new international markets during 2025. The Mercedes-Benz and Geely joint venture also outlined plans to expand its product lineup from three to five models in 2026 with the introduction of the #2 city two-seater and #6 EHD fastback sedan.
Highlights
- smart expanded to 39 markets across five continents in 2025, adding 10 new international markets to its global footprint.
- All smart models hold Red Dot Design Awards and 5-star Euro NCAP safety ratings, making it the only automotive brand with full-lineup design recognition.
- Retail network grew 25% to 688 outlets worldwide, with a 130% surge across Southeast Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, and Latin America.
- Two new models arrive in 2026: the #2 city two-seater built on smart’s ECA architecture and the China-exclusive #6 EHD premium fastback sedan.
Global Retail Network Expansion
smart’s retail presence grew substantially in 2025. The brand increased its global outlet count by 25% to 688 locations worldwide.
Regional expansion details include:
- New markets (Southeast Asia, Oceania, Middle East, Latin America): 130% increase to 72 outlets
- China: 43% increase to 294 outlets
The company’s smartcare customer service program, which smart describes as anchored in its “at ease with smart” principle, implemented AI tools that improved customer inquiry response times by 40% in 2025.
Industry Recognition and Awards
smart’s vehicles received multiple awards across new markets in 2025:
- smart #5: Named Car of the Year 2026 in Norway by Dagbladet, DinSide, and Elbil24
- smart #3 BRABUS: Won 2025 Performance Electric SUV of the Year in Singapore from sgCarMart
- smart #3: Selected for Australia’s Hot 25 Cars of the Year by The Australian
The brand noted it is the only automaker whose entire model lineup has earned Red Dot Design Awards. Every smart model has also achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
2026 Product Roadmap
smart will expand its portfolio from three to five models in 2026 with two strategic additions.
smart #2
The all-new city two-seater will have its global premiere in Europe in late 2026. The vehicle will be built on smart’s self-developed ECA architecture, representing what the company calls a major advancement in its in-house engineering capabilities.
smart #6 EHD
smart’s first premium fastback sedan will launch by mid-2026 exclusively for the China market. The plug-in hybrid model features extended electric range and Mercedes-Benz design elements.
The brand also introduced plug-in hybrid technology to its lineup in 2025 with the launch of the #5 EHD in China. Special editions released during the year included the smart #3 Keith Haring Edition and smart #1 Crema Edition.
Brand Partnerships
smart pursued what it termed “inspirational co-creation” through partnerships in 2025 spanning lifestyle, sports, and art sectors. Collaborations included Disney, Trek, Peet’s Coffee, St. Pauli Football Club, and the Keith Haring Foundation.
“smart is built on openness – of ideas, cultures, and collaboration,” said Mandy Zhang, Global CMO of smart. “As we move into the ‘Year of Opening New Frontiers,’ we will continue co-creating with partners, customers and fans worldwide.”
Corporate Background
smart was established as a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz AG and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group in late 2019. The company operates under a “China-Europe, Dual Home” global development strategy and has achieved financing milestones ahead of schedule, according to the announcement.
Tong Xiangbei, Global CEO of smart, stated the company plans to enter its 40th market in 2026 while continuing to expand smartcare services.
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