Smart Forvision concept

Smart will unveil its new Forvision concept car at the 2011 Frankfurt motor as the manufacturer continues its preview its future design direction. In the last 12 months the company has revealed its Forspeed and eScooter concepts, with the latest addition designed to keep to the original ForTwo's green specifications.

The Forvision uses the latest Smart electric drive system, which Daimler claims will add approximately 20 percent to the range of the current electric Smart, with an EV range of around 110 miles. The vehicle's paintwork and glass can reflect heat – on a hot day it can apparently cool the interior by around 20° C. The concept also has a glass roof, with Daimler is in the process of developing transparent solar charging technology. Fans within the headlamps help cool the airflow and the carbon Tridion safety cell upgrade indicates that Daimler intends to challenge the BMW i3 for its multi-material construction.

The ForTwo will be the second joint project between Daimler and Renault, sticking with a small two-door, rear-engined blueprint. The first project from the new alliance will be 2012's four-door, four-seat car. It will provide the direction for the next Renault Twingo, anticipated to be a replacement for the disappointing Smart ForFour.

Photo Gallery: Smart Forvision concept

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