BRABUS version of smart #1 unveiled in Malaysia

We’re now into the fourth and final quarter of 2023, and this is the period that smart Malaysia (PRO-NET) said it will officially launch the smart #1 EV. Over the course of the year, its phased programme of introduction has seen two versions of the #1 – the Pro and Premium – becoming visible to the public.

But before that launch takes place, there is still one last model to give a preview of: the flagship #1 BRABUS. That was done today at the International Electric Mobility Showcase which is on at the KL Convention Centre.

Those who know BRABUS will know that it is a high-performance brand and it has actually been associated with smart for 20 years, having developed sportier versions of the fortwo and other models.

With the restructured smart company having Geely as a partner with Mercedes-Benz, BRABUS is still involved and right from the first of the entirely new range of EVs, the #1. However, unlike the early fortwo BRABUS, the involvement of BRABUS has not been just to make the #1 look sportier.

It is not like, say, the AMG-Line for Mercedes-Benz which has sportier looks than the standard model but not improved performance (unlike an AMG – without the ‘Line’ – model that is much more powerful).

With the #1 BRABUS, there are not only distinct differentiating elements on the outside and inside (you will find ‘BRABUS’ all over) but also in the powertrain.

Where the Pro and Premium versions have a single motor generating 200 kW/343 Nm, BRABUS engineers have added a second motor for all-wheel drive with a high output of 315 kW/543 Nm. The higher performance that would be expected reduces the claimed range by around 10% to 400 kms.

The 66 kWh NCM battery pack (same as the Premium) can be recharged from 10% to 80% in 29 minutes with a 150 kW DC charger, it is claimed. The onboard AC converter can handle up to 22 kW supply which means shorter charging times and a 10% to 80% recharge should take 3 hours with an AC supply.

Oh, one more thing, the #1 BRABUS has a Simulated Engine Sound feature which may or not appeal to every driver. It gives a deep growl like that of a powerful BRABUS-tuned engine but somehow that sound does not seem to be quite right when the car is actually smoother and quieter.

The interior is the work of Mercedes-Benz Design too but has been given the BRABUS theme of red and black which the company offers on its ‘standard’ cars if customers do not customise. However, the #1 BRABUS, being a mass-produced model, does not have extensive customisation options so a single theme is used.

The exterior colour choices number seven and have different roof colours. Those who choose the Radiant Red roof have the choice of Atom Grey – Matte, Meta Black, and Cyber Silver. The alternative Black roof comes with the colour options of Digital White, Laser Red, and Cyber Silver. Lastly, there is Atom Grey – Matte, which also comes with an exclusive matte body-coloured roof.

With the price range having been announced earlier as being from RM200,000 to RM250,000, the #1 BRABUS can be safely expected to be at the top end. Those who book any of the #1 versions via the Hello smart app can get Early Bird Perks, which are RM1,001 in charging credits. Presumably, this means making a booking before the launch date.

There is already a second model, the #3, launched in China and it will certainly be sold in Malaysia later on. Geely is also considering the possibility of assembling smart vehicles at the Tg. Malim plant as a regional hub for righthand drive variants.

BRABUS and smart – not an odd couple