TRANSPORTATION

Smart Fourjoy

It looks like it’s just a car for an exhibition but, the intention of Smart is to make this concept-car the future of Smart cars. The Smart Fourjoy shown at the 2013 IAA Frankfurt anticipates the new smart generation especially in terms of design awareness.

It was developed to be a substitute for the extinct ForFour, produced between 2004 and 2006. Now, Smart wants to come back with the idea of producing a small and urban car for 4 passengers.

The Fourjoy didn’t lose the urban DNA of his older but shorter brother Smart fortwo. This car is all about having fun and enjoying urban life. The new Smart Fourjoy shows a design and philosophy more similar to the already known Smart Fortwo, but exploring a futuristic and innovative shape.

No doors, no rear window and an open roof. All those items are unnecessary at this car and this is totally intentional. It helps to give viewers an unhindered view of the futuristic “floating “interior based on the style of lounge furniture and also emphasizes that the car was designed to have ample space for four people.

At the first look one style detail quickly calls viewers’ attention. The honeycomb structure of the air inlets on the front incorporated to the hood. Detail already seen on last Smart concept called “For-us” , that probably will be present on future Smart products.

The shiny chrome cell made of polished full-aluminium emphasizes the premium character of the brand and provides a contrast with the pearlescent white on the bumpers. The 55kW magneto - electric engine provides this car an agile and zero emission way of driving.

By launching this concept it seems clear that the intention of Smart on extending their portfolio of products is a strategy to keep being competitive in the market; and the new Fourjoy reveals that the brand is following the right path. This dynamic and curvy vehicle can be easily be considered one of the most successful concepts shown at Frankfurt this year.

Sept. 23, 2013