2013-2016 smart fortwo electric drive convertible

Overview

The 2013-2016 smart fortwo electric drive (ED) convertible represents a pivotal chapter in the evolution of urban mobility. As the third generation of the smart fortwo platform, this iteration marked the brand’s most serious commitment to electrification in the North American market. Engineered to address the challenges of dense metropolitan environments, the fortwo ED combined the iconic, ultra-compact “tridion” safety cell with a sophisticated battery-electric powertrain, offering a zero-emissions solution for city dwellers who prioritized maneuverability and ease of parking above all else.

Manufactured in Hambach, France, the vehicle utilized a 55 kW permanent-magnet synchronous motor paired with a lithium-ion battery pack, providing a nimble driving experience characterized by instant torque. The convertible variant, featuring a power-folding fabric roof, enhanced the appeal of the micro-car by offering an open-air experience that few other electric vehicles of the era could provide. Despite its limited range compared to modern EVs, the fortwo electric drive was highly regarded for its engineering efficiency and its role as a testbed for Daimler’s broader electrification strategies.

Marketed primarily toward tech-savvy urbanites and environmentally conscious commuters, the fortwo ED occupied a unique niche. While it faced stiff competition from larger, longer-range electric vehicles, its legacy remains defined by its uncompromising focus on footprint reduction. Today, it is recognized as a cult classic among enthusiasts of micro-mobility, serving as a reminder of the early transition period when manufacturers began experimenting with the viability of mass-market battery-electric city cars.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	smart
Model	fortwo electric drive convertible
Model Year	2013-2016
Generation	W451
Trim	Electric Drive
Body Style	2-door convertible
Vehicle Segment	Microcar
Vehicle Class	Two Seaters
Market	USA
Platform	smart W451
Assembly Plant	Hambach, France
Country of Origin	France
Production Start	2013
Production End	2016
VIN Identifier	WME
Base MSRP	$28,000
Destination Charge	$750
Total MSRP	$28,750
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
Horsepower	74 hp
Torque	96 lb-ft
Drivetrain	Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (A1)
Final Drive Ratio	9.06:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Electricity
EPA City MPGe (for EV/PHEV)	122
EPA Highway MPGe (for EV/PHEV)	93
EPA Combined MPGe (for EV/PHEV)	107
Estimated Driving Range	68 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$600
CO₂ Emissions	0 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	10
Smog Rating	10
Electric Vehicle System
Battery Supplier	Deutsche ACCUmotive
Battery Chemistry	Lithium-ion
Gross Battery Capacity (kWh)	17.6
Usable Battery Capacity (kWh)	14.0
System Voltage	360V
Number of Motors	1
Combined Output	55 kW
Combined Torque	96 lb-ft
EPA Range (Miles)	68
On-board Charger Power (kW)	3.3 kW (Optional 7 kW)
AC Charging Power	3.3 kW
DC Fast Charging Power	–
Charge Port	J1772
Charging Standard (CCS1/NACS)	J1772
DC Charge Time (10-80%)	–
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)	No
Vehicle-to-Home (V2H)	No
Heat Pump	No
Performance
0-60 mph	11.5 seconds
Top Speed	78 mph
Power-to-Weight Ratio	0.04 hp/lb
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	106.1
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	61.4
Height (in)	60.7
Wheelbase (in)	73.5
Curb Weight (lbs)	2150
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	7.8
Turning Circle	28.7 ft
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	Optional Touchscreen
Audio System	smart Sound System
Speaker Count	2-4
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
EV Battery Warranty	8 years / 100,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Transmission Supplier	Getrag
Frunk Capacity (cu ft)	0

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2013-2016 smart fortwo electric drive is widely considered a niche vehicle that excels in specific urban environments but struggles with the limitations of its era’s battery technology. Reliability is generally high due to the simplicity of the electric powertrain, though prospective buyers should prioritize checking the health of the high-voltage battery, as degradation can significantly impact the already modest 68-mile range. Common issues include the failure of the 12V auxiliary battery, which can cause erratic electrical behavior, and wear on the convertible top mechanism. In the used market, these vehicles offer exceptional value for city commuters who have access to home charging and do not require long-distance travel, serving as a fun, highly maneuverable, and cost-effective alternative to traditional gasoline-powered city cars.