New Smart forvision EV concept

Thegreencarwebsite.co.uk reports the latest initiative between Smart and chemicals company BASF.

Using plastic wheels and carbon fibre body structure, BASF and Smart have been able to save 50 per cent weight compared with steel, or 30 per cent compared with aluminium, resulting in an impressive increase in range of 20%

Called the Smart forvision, the car uses unique materials to make advances in energy efficiency, weight and temperature management.

Unique new materials include the use of completely plastic wheels to minimise weight, solar cells, energy-saving light-emitting diodes, infrared-reflective films and coatings as well as high-performance foams for insulation against cold and heat.

Using Smart’s automotive expertise and BASF’s material and system competence, the new concept features many ground-breaking materials which have so far only ever been seen in the laboratory and other others which are only now ready for production. Hexagonal transparent areas on the roof of the Smart forvision are not only an eye-catching feature – they form part of the first light-transmitting roof that also generates energy.

The transparent solar cells cover the entire roof surface of the vehicle. The cells use organic dyes which are light-activated. Even in diffused light and poor light conditions they generate enough energy to power the multimedia components in the car and the three fans that assist with climate management in the vehicle interior. If the vehicle is standing in the sun the ventilation is permanently operated with the help of these solar cells, keeping the car cool.

The Smart forvision will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Show.