2017 smart fortwo electric drive: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2017 smart fortwo electric drive is a full redesign built on the newer third-generation fortwo. Its biggest change is the move to a stronger 80-hp electric drive system, joined by much faster 240-volt charging.
About the 2017 smart fortwo electric drive
3rd-gen fortwo (453), first U.S. model year for the electric version on this generation; first year for the electric cabrio.
smart positions the fortwo electric drive as a city-first EV. Its appeal is simple: it is tiny, easy to park, quick off the line at low speeds, and built for short urban trips rather than highway distance. Against other EVs, its main draw is not range or space, but its ultra-short footprint, tight turning circle, two-seat layout, and the unusual availability of a small electric convertible.
The 2017 lineup ranges from the straightforward Pure to the more polished Passion and comfort-focused Prime, while an electric cabrio joins the range for the first time. Every version has an 80-hp rear electric motor; Passion adds alloy wheels and useful storage touches, while Prime brings leather upholstery, heated seats, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers.
What changed, by category
2017 smart fortwo electric drive specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor | AC Electric Motor |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric | Electric |
| Horsepower | 80 hp | 80 hp | 80 hp |
| Torque | 118 lb-ft | 118 lb-ft | 118 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 8.9 cu-ft | 8.9 cu-ft | 8.9 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Electric Range | 58 | 57–58 | 57–58 |
| MPGe Combined | 108 | 102–108 | 102–108 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Anti-Lock Brakes | |||
| Hill Start Assist | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Stability Control | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| LED Tail Lights | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Power Mirrors | |||
| Power Retractable Soft Top | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Locks | |||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2017 smart fortwo electric drive a new generation?
Yes. The 2017 smart fortwo electric drive is the first U.S. electric version built on the third-generation fortwo body, with a newer cabin and electric drive system.
How long does the 2017 smart fortwo electric drive take to charge on 240 volts?
It takes about 2 hours 30 minutes to charge from 20% to 100% on a 240-volt connection. A higher-output onboard charger makes it much quicker to recharge than the older electric model.
Is the 2017 smart fortwo electric drive more powerful than the earlier version?
Yes. The redesigned 2017 model has an 80-hp rear electric motor producing 118 lb-ft of torque, replacing the older, weaker electric drive system.
Which trims joined the 2017 smart fortwo electric drive lineup?
Pure, Passion, and Prime make up the redesigned 2017 lineup, replacing the previous Base trim structure. Pure is the straightforward version, Passion adds convenience and appearance upgrades, and Prime emphasizes cabin comfort.
Did the smart fortwo electric cabrio debut for 2017?
Yes. The electric cabrio joined the U.S. fortwo electric drive lineup for the first time in 2017, adding an open-roof body style to the redesigned range.