2016 smart fortwo electric drive: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2016 smart fortwo electric drive has no major changes from 2015. It keeps the older body and electric powertrain for one final year before the model's 2017 redesign.
About the 2016 smart fortwo electric drive
2nd-generation fortwo electric drive (W451), final U.S. model year before the all-new 2017 redesign.
smart positioned the fortwo electric drive as a city-focused EV first and foremost: tiny on the outside, easy to park almost anywhere, and surprisingly roomy for two people. The point was not long-distance travel or family duty. Its appeal was simple daily urban use with no gas stops, a tight turning circle, and a playful personality that made short trips feel easy rather than complicated.
The 2016 fortwo electric drive is a tiny two-seat electric car built for short city trips and easy parking. Its 17.6-kWh battery provides an EPA-rated 68-mile range, while a fixed glass roof, automatic climate control, and cabin preconditioning while plugged in make it more comfortable to live with.
2016 smart fortwo electric drive specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | AC Electric Motor |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Fixed Gear |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric |
| Horsepower | 47 hp |
| Torque | 96 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 7.8 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Electric Range | 68 |
| MPGe Combined | 107 |
| Alarm System | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| Panorama Moon Roof | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2016 smart fortwo electric drive compared with the 2015 model?
Nothing significant changed for 2016. The body, 17.6-kWh battery, rear electric motor, single-speed transmission, and major equipment carried over from 2015.
Does the 2016 smart fortwo electric drive use the redesigned 2016 fortwo body?
No. The 2016 electric drive retains the older fortwo body even though the gasoline model was redesigned that year. The electric version moved to the newer design for 2017.
What is the driving range of the 2016 smart fortwo electric drive?
The 2016 smart fortwo electric drive has an EPA-rated range of 68 miles on a full charge. It is intended mainly for short commutes and city driving.
Is the 2016 smart fortwo electric drive the final year of its generation?
Yes. The 2016 model is the final U.S. model year of the older W451-generation fortwo electric drive before the redesigned 2017 model arrived.
What features stand out on the 2016 smart fortwo electric drive?
The 2016 model's notable features include a fixed panoramic glass roof, automatic climate control, and cabin preconditioning while the car is plugged in. It also has electric power steering and displays for battery charge and power use.