Blending design with technology

Smart has released the first information and design sketches of the for-us Concept, an electric urban pick-up based on the powertrain of the ForTwo electric drive.

Smart for-us Concept Design Sketch At the 2012 Detroit Motor Show Smart will present the for-us Concept, a study of a stylish compact pick-up with an eco-friendly electric drivetrain.

The design applies the typical aesthetic language of the brand to a new format. With a length of 3,547 mm, a width of 1,506 mm and a height of 1,701 mm the for-us is longer, larger and taller than the ForTwo, even if its dimensions are partly disguised by the minimal overhangs and large wheels.

Smart for-us Concept Design Sketch Among the trademark design elements are the bi-tone exterior color scheme, the rounded shapes of the interior and a number of elements  – such as the hexagonal pattern showcased on the rear quarter panel – already introduced on the Forvision and Forspeed concepts as well as on the 454 WWT and the 341 Parkour that won the last two editions of the LA Design Challenge.

The cargo area is designed to transport two Smart e-bikes and also integrates a docking station to charge their batteries.

Smart for-us Concept Design Sketch The electric drive of is based on the drive concept of the ForTwo electric drive, which will be launched in the spring of 2012.

The magneto-electric motor is powered by a 17.6 kWh lithium-ion battery, delivers 55 kW and 130 Nm of torque, and allows a top speed of over 120 km/h.