Smart Ditches EV-Only Future, Aims At Unveiling PHEV Powertrain Targeting Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Mitsubishi Outlander
The automotive industry has seen a significant shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) in recent years. However, Smart, the German automaker, is bucking the trend by announcing its plan to abandon its EV-only future in favor of a new strategic approach. They are eyeing an incoming 5-SUV that would integrate a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain to compete head-to-head with prominent cars like Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Mitsubishi Outlander.
A Novel Turnaround for Smart
In the constantly evolving arena of automobiles, Smart’s decision to pivot from its EV-only drive to a PHEV powertrain presents an interesting turn of events. This pivot will see them introducing an all-new 5-SUV that utilises the PHEV concept. The 5-SUV is slated to be a direct competitor to leaders in the PHEV segment, including the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Mitsubishi Outlander.
Powertrain Highlights
Smart’s incoming 5-SUV will be powered by an innovative PHEV powertrain. This powertrain is suspected to house a turbocharged petrol engine partnered with an electric motor. The integration of the PHEV concept into the powertrain ensures that the car can run on electric power alone until the battery charge drops to a certain level. At this point, the combustion engine powers the vehicle, keeping it charged and lengthening the driving range.
Competitive Arena
The PHEV arena is already packed with dominating players like Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Mitsubishi Outlander. Both vehicles have been praised for their impressive fuel economy and reliable performance. However, Smart, with its distinctive technology and expertise, is set on debuting their PHEV model into this fiercely competitive ring.
Powerful Contenders: Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Mitsubishi Outlander
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Mitsubishi Outlander have set high standards in the PHEV segment. The RAV4 Hybrid boasts of a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, offering an impressive 219 horsepower. On the other hand, the Outlander’s 2.4 L engine with dual electric motors delivers a commendable 221 horsepower.
The hybrid drive systems in both these vehicles strike an excellent balance between power, efficiency, and eco-friendliness. The fuel consumption rate is low due to the electric motor, thereby reducing harmful emissions. Both vehicles also extend a flexible driving experience, transitioning smoothly between different drive modes.
Smart’s Approach To This Endeavour
Smart seems determined to present an impactful player in this competitive arena. They believe that their PHEV model will offer an unparalleled blend of power, fuel efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Given Smart’s expertise and innovative approach to car manufacturing, its incoming 5-SUV could indeed be a game-changer in the PHEV segment.
Conclusion
The release of Smart’s latest PHEV model is eagerly awaited by both industry experts and consumers. It marks a fresh direction for the automaker, and with strong contenders like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Mitsubishi Outlander, the stage is set for a captivating competition. Despite the competitive landscape, the Smart 5-SUV holds promise and is expected to disrupt the current PHEV market dynamics with its entry.