Smart unveils hybrid technology and launches 2026 smart #1 BRABUS in Saudi Arabia

At the 2025 Chengdu International Auto Show, Smart made headlines by officially introducing its groundbreaking EHD Super Hybrid technology. With this debut, the brand entered what it calls the smart 2.0 era, combining fully electric vehicles with plug in hybrid models. This dual strategy allows Smart, the German Chinese brand, to address a wider range of customers worldwide while reinforcing its presence in key markets. The announcement was paired with the brand’s official entry into Saudi Arabia through a strategic partnership with Juffali Automotive Company, marking a milestone for Smart in the region.

Smart enters Saudi Arabia with Juffali

Smart confirmed a strategic partnership with Juffali Automotive Company, the official Mercedes Benz distributor in the Kingdom since 1959. With this step, Saudi Arabia becomes Smart’s 12th market in the region and its 39th worldwide. The brand is preparing to introduce three fully electric models to the local market: smart #1, smart #3, and smart #5.

• Juffali’s dealership network in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Abha will serve as the foundation for sales and service.

• After sales support will be delivered under Mercedes Benz standards, ensuring customer confidence and satisfaction.

• The expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s national goal of increasing electric vehicle adoption to 15.9 percent by 2030.

Smart’s entry into Saudi Arabia highlights its broader global expansion strategy, connecting its advanced technologies to key markets and positioning the Kingdom as a central hub in the brand’s future plans.

EHD Super Hybrid Technology: A Game Changer in Mobility

At the Chengdu Auto Show, Smart unveiled its all new EHD Super Hybrid system, built on the advanced Thunder Hybrid 2.0 platform, already tested by more than 1.22 million users worldwide.

Key highlights of the technology include:

• A highly efficient 1.5TD engine designed for hybrid systems, compatible with 92 octane fuel.

• Low fuel consumption of just 4.4 liters per 100 km when the battery charge is low.

• Driving range capable of covering the distance between Beijing and Shanghai on a single tank.

• Ultra low running costs of around 0.15 SAR per kilometer.

• Fast charging from 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes.

Smart also emphasized user experience by delivering stable, smooth, and quiet driving. This is achieved through a 3 speed 3DHT transmission with seamless shifting, Mercedes Benz level suspension tuning, and advanced sound insulation with 170 materials that bring cabin noise down to only 30 decibels, quieter than a library, ensuring a premium and refined ride in all conditions.

Launch of the 2026 smart #1 BRABUS: Performance Meets Luxury

Alongside its new hybrid technology, smart unveiled the 2026 smart #1 BRABUS Performance Edition, priced from 129,500 SAR, representing the peak of performance and luxury in the compact electric SUV segment.

• The car received 219 upgrades covering exterior and interior design, dynamic performance, and advanced smart features.

• It comes with an exclusive matte black paint finish paired with a red roof and a distinctive illuminated red front grille.

• Equipped with BRABUS MONOBLOCK Z 19 inch lightweight alloy wheels and unique Light Art exterior lighting for a bold visual identity.

Inside, the cabin features custom BRABUS sport seats, premium Artisyn leather on key surfaces, and cutting edge technology including a BRABUS by Sennheiser® sound system with 13 speakers, ambient lighting with 256 color options, and multiple high definition displays such as a 12.8 inch central screen and a 10 inch full color head up display.

In terms of performance, the smart #1 BRABUS delivers thrilling acceleration with dual electric motors producing a combined 497 hp. It sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds, offers a driving range of up to 470 km, and supports ultra fast charging up to 150 kW.

Smart 2.0 Vision: Global Expansion and Continuous Innovation

Since the establishment of the global Smart company in 2019 as a joint venture between Mercedes Benz and Geely, the brand has cemented its position as a key player in the electric vehicle sector. Today, with the introduction of the groundbreaking EHD Super Hybrid technology and the launch of the new BRABUS edition, Smart reaffirms its commitment to delivering intelligent and premium mobility solutions tailored to fast growing markets such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

This direction reflects the brand’s philosophy under its new slogan open your mind, which embodies its vision of openness and innovation, shaping a future that is more sustainable and exciting for automotive enthusiasts.