Smart, the mini car brand operated by Mercedes is coming out of hibernation and being placed on life support. Smart is being given one last roll of the dice, now it’s gone from a cheap urban run around to a next-generation premium battery electric vehicle urban runabout thing. Here’s a key fact about the Smart 1, the advanced EV powertrain is being supplied by Geely, it’s a sign that times are changing. The Smart 1 is also a sign that the European car manufacturing sector has been asleep at the wheel.

Anyway, the Smart 1 is now available to order for the UK. The Smart 1 is priced from £35,950 and will be initially available in three production variants – Pro+, Premium (£38K) and the dual motor BRABUS (£43K). An exclusive Launch Edition, limited to 100 examples and stuffed full f optional extras will also be available from £40,000.

All variants will be powered by a 63kWh battery pack with the Pro+ and Premium models outputting 268bhp which enables 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds and a lab-calculated range of 260 and 273 miles respectively. The dual motor Brabus spec will output 422bhp and reach 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds, the lab-calculated range is estimated at 248 miles.

All models will have fast-charging AC and 150kW DC fast charging ports. All cars will be suitably equipped, standard features include an extensive range of driving assistance systems, panoramic sunroof, ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control), heated seats, a 360-degree surround camera, intelligent voice assistance, LED lights and a powered tailgate.