Daimler’s Smart unit will be represented at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September by a new concept study named Forvision that does two things for the brand: it previews the new design direction for the Fortwo and it hints at the technology being readied for the firm’s future models.
The Forvision is Smart’s second concept model after the sportier, roofless Forspeed that debuted in Geneva this past March to feature the brand’s new styling language that brings the original Fortwo’s design into the 21st century.
Smart worked together with BASF, the world’s largest chemical company, for the development of several advanced technologies used on the Forvision.
Among other highlights are the revolutionary plastic wheels that each weigh about 3kg (6.6 pounds) less than an aluminum rim, and the carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy resin used in the construction of the passenger compartment and the doors, which weight savings of up to 50 percent compared to steel and 30 percent compared to aluminum.
The concept model features an electric drivetrain, with the solar roof providing additional energy to feed the battery.
So, when will see the actual, production version of third generation of the Fortwo? The German automaker is expected to roll out the new model sometime next year.
It will be based on a new rear-wheel drive platform architecture that has been developed in cooperation with the Nissan-Renault Alliance and, according to a joint statement made last year, it will also be used on the next Renault Twingo.
Story sources: Smart & AMS
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