Smart ForFour Electric Drive 2017: City EV Review & Key Specs

The 2017 Smart ForFour Electric Drive (ED) redefines urban mobility with its compact footprint, instant electric torque, and playful handling tailored for congested streets. This four-seater EV combines Smart’s signature cheeky styling with zero-emission power, making it a standout choice for short daily commutes in bustling environments.

Powertrain and Performance Breakdown

At the heart of the ForFour ED lies a three-phase synchronous electric motor delivering 81 horsepower (60 kW) and a robust 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque available from zero rpm. This setup propels the car from 0-37 mph in just 5.5 seconds, feeling exceptionally lively in stop-start traffic. The single-speed transmission ensures seamless acceleration, with a top speed capped at 81 mph (130 km/h), sufficient for city limits but not highway hauls.

Real-world testing confirms its urban prowess: it scooting effortlessly from 15-25 mph, overtaking sluggish vehicles with ease. The rear-wheel-drive layout, with the 17.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack mounted low under the floor, lowers the center of gravity for stable cornering. A high-strength steel safety cocoon encases the 330-pound battery, enhancing crash protection without compromising the car’s lightweight 2,200 lb curb weight.

Driving Dynamics in Urban Jungles

Engineered for city life, the ForFour ED boasts a remarkably tight turning circle of 9.05 meters (22.8 feet for the related Fortwo), allowing U-turns in spaces most cars can’t touch. Light, quick-ratio steering provides precise control, making parking in tight spots a breeze. Ride quality impresses over cobblestones and speed bumps, though optional 16-inch wheels can transmit harshness from potholes.

Regenerative braking blends smoothly with the standard system, extending range during frequent stops. Modes like ECO trim power for efficiency, ideal for hypermilers maximizing every mile. On British roads, testers noted its nimble getaway from junctions, smooth progress, and refined feel around town.

Key Performance Metrics

This table highlights why the ForFour ED excels in dense traffic, prioritizing agility over outright speed.

Range, Charging, and Efficiency Realities

Official NEDC range stands at 155 km (96 miles), but real-world figures disappoint at around 65 miles per full charge, far short of rivals like the Renault ZOE’s doubled capacity. Combined consumption hovers at 131 Wh/km, reasonable for its class but constrained by the modest battery.

Charging from a household socket takes 6 hours to 80% (UK), or up to 13 hours in some regions, with no widespread fast-charging support in 2017 models. This limits it to true city use, stranding drivers in suburbs or on longer trips. Modern EVs have since surpassed it with better batteries and infrastructure.

• Pros: Quick home charging for overnight top-ups.
• Cons: Poor range caps adventures beyond urban zones.
• Tip: Use ECO mode and anticipate stops to stretch electrons further.

Design and Exterior Appeal

The ForFour ED retains Smart’s bold aesthetics: hexagonal grille, slim LED headlights with daytime running lamps, and vibrant color options like white with electric green accents. Its 3.49-meter length and rear-hinged doors facilitate easy access in tight parking. The two-piece panoramic roof floods the cabin with light, enhancing the airy feel.

Compared to the two-seater Fortwo, the ForFour’s added width improves stability and room, with crosswind-assist tech steadying it against gusts or truck drafts. Aerodynamic tweaks and a lower stance contribute to its 70-80 mile EPA estimate in related models.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Inside, premium touches elevate it above basic city cars: leather upholstery, heated front seats, electric mirrors, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment with navigation. The dashboard features dedicated charge and power pod dials, while robust materials and simple layouts feel upmarket.

Seating accommodates four adults reasonably, with decent legroom fore and aft, though six-footers fit snugly. Visibility shines with large mirrors and a high perch, minimizing blind spots. Cargo space is minimal—a tiny boot suits groceries but not family luggage, a common critique.

• Spacious for two tall drivers with shared armrest.
• Slick infotainment, easy sat-nav.
• Hard plastics in places, but well-assembled.

Standard Features and Value Proposition

Priced around £25,000 (pre-incentives), it undercuts some EVs post-tax credits but exceeds base ZOE or Leaf models. Loaded with kit—LED lights, panorama roof, leather—it justifies the premium via urban specialization. PCP deals at £269/month were steep then, but running costs plummet with free urban charging and minimal maintenance.

Expert ratings give it a C grade (63%), praising town fun and space but docking for range and boot. It’s affordable used now, ideal for EV newbies.

Safety and Reliability Insights

The battery’s central placement and steel cocoon bolster protection. Standard stability aids highway poise, a step up from predecessors. No major reliability red flags in early reviews, though battery degradation concerns linger for high-mileage examples.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Who Should Buy the 2017 ForFour ED?

Perfect for city dwellers with home charging, short commutes under 50 miles, and a penchant for stylish EVs. Families or highway users should look elsewhere—consider updated ZOE or Leaf for versatility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How far can the Smart ForFour ED really go?

Expect 65-80 miles in mixed driving, less in cold weather or with AC.

Is it quick off the line?

Yes, instant torque makes 0-37 mph in 5.5s feel thrilling in traffic.

What’s the charging time?

6 hours to 80% on a standard UK socket; no DC fast charge.

How practical is the boot?

Very small—fine for shopping, not suitcases.

Is it safe?

Battery protection and stability features make it solid for urban use.

Final Verdict on Urban Electric Pioneer

The 2017 Smart ForFour ED captures the joy of electric city driving with flair and efficiency, though range constraints keep it niche. As a used buy, it offers characterful motoring for EV enthusiasts.(Word count: 1678)