Review: The Smart #1 marks a new chapter for the maker – one with lots of hidden quirks and perks

Electric, enjoyable and effortlessly quick, the Smart #1 offers an enticing alternative in a rapidly expanding market

Smart #1 Premium is undeniably eye-catching — what’s visible comes from Mercedes, what’s not visible is supplied by Chinese manufacturer Geely

Geraldine Herbert

In the late 1990s, Smart emerged as a new venture initiated by Mercedes-Benz and Nicolas Hayek, founder of Swatch. With its funky designs and wallet-friendly prices, Swatch had earned its spot as the ultimate cult phenomenon in the world of watches.

The Smart Fortwo could accommodate just two passengers, hence its name, and was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1997. It started production in 1998 but it would be another four years before the steering wheel swapped sides and it came to Ireland.