2017-2018 smart fortwo electric drive convertible

Overview

The 2017-2018 smart fortwo electric drive convertible represents the final iteration of the brand’s dedicated electric micro-car strategy in the North American market. Built upon the C453 platform, which was developed in a collaborative partnership between Daimler AG and the Renault-Nissan Alliance, this generation marked a significant refinement over its predecessor. By transitioning to a more sophisticated electric architecture, the fortwo electric drive aimed to solve the primary criticisms of earlier smart models, offering improved handling, a tighter turning radius, and a more refined cabin experience.

Positioned as the ultimate urban mobility solution, the convertible variant provided a unique proposition: the ability to retract the “tritop” fabric roof at any speed, offering an open-air experience in a vehicle footprint that could park perpendicular to the curb in spaces where conventional cars could not fit. Despite its diminutive size, the vehicle utilized a robust “tridion” safety cell, a hallmark of smart engineering designed to provide high levels of occupant protection. While its limited range made it a niche product, it remains a significant piece of automotive history as one of the few dedicated electric convertibles ever mass-produced for the US market.

As the automotive industry shifted toward larger crossovers and long-range EVs, the smart fortwo electric drive eventually saw its US market presence conclude as the brand pivoted toward an all-electric strategy in Europe. Today, it is recognized by enthusiasts as a quirky, highly maneuverable, and technologically interesting city car that serves as a testament to the early 21st-century push for urban electrification.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	smart
Model	fortwo electric drive convertible
Model Year	2017-2018
Generation	C453
Trim	Electric Drive
Body Style	2-door convertible
Vehicle Segment	City Car
Vehicle Class	Two Seaters
Market	USA
Platform	Renault-Daimler Edison
Assembly Plant	Hambach, France
Country of Origin	France
Production Start	2017
Production End	2018
VIN Identifier	WME
Base MSRP	$28,000
Destination Charge	$750
Total MSRP	$28,750
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Electric (BEV)
Horsepower	80 hp
Torque	118 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)	112
EPA Highway MPGe (for EV/PHEV)	91
EPA Combined MPGe (for EV/PHEV)	102
Estimated Driving Range	58 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)	16.7
System Voltage	360V
Number of Motors	1
Combined Output	60 KW AC Synchronous
Combined Torque	118 lb-ft
EPA Range (Miles)	58
On-board Charger Power (kW)	7.2
AC Charging Power	7.2 kW
DC Fast Charging Power	–
Charge Port	J1772
Charging Standard (CCS1/NACS)	–
DC Charge Time (10-80%)	–
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)	No
Vehicle-to-Home (V2H)	No
Heat Pump	No
Performance
0-30 mph	4.9 seconds
0-60 mph	11.4 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	–
Top Speed	81 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	–
Lateral Acceleration	–
Power-to-Weight Ratio	0.025 hp/lb
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	106.1
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	65.5
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	61.2
Wheelbase (in)	73.7
Front Track (in)	57.5
Rear Track (in)	56.8
Ground Clearance (in)	–
Curb Weight (lbs)	3230
GVWR (lbs)	–
Towing Capacity (lbs)	0
Payload Capacity (lbs)	–
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	–
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	9.2
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	12.0
Turning Circle	22.8 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	–
Side Impact	–
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	7-inch touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog with digital display
Apple CarPlay	Optional
Android Auto	Optional
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	JBL Sound System
Speaker Count	8
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	12 years / unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance	4 years / 50,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	–
Hybrid Component Warranty	–
EV Battery Warranty	8 years / 100,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	–
Transmission Supplier	–
Battery Cell Manufacturer	LG Chem
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	–
Frunk Capacity (cu ft)	0
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	0
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2017-2018 smart fortwo electric drive convertible is widely regarded as a specialized tool for dense urban environments rather than a primary vehicle. Reliability is generally high due to the simplicity of the electric drivetrain, though prospective buyers should pay close attention to the state of health (SOH) of the battery pack, as the limited 58-mile range can degrade over time. Common issues are typically limited to minor electronic glitches in the infotainment system and the complexity of the power-folding roof mechanism, which requires regular maintenance to prevent binding. In the used market, it appeals primarily to city dwellers who prioritize parking ease and zero-emissions commuting, offering a unique, fun-to-drive personality that remains unmatched in its segment, provided the owner has access to convenient home charging.