prof. johann tomforde on smart's electric mobility with concept #5

prof. johann tomforde gives a glimpse of smart’s legacy

smart introduced the visionary smart Concept #5 vehicle, previewed at the Beijing Auto Show 2024, which shows a bold vision for the future of electric mobility. This game-changer builds on decades of like-minded trendsetting in design and engineering, showcasing the brand’s legacy of engineering while expanding into the premium mid-size SUV segment. In an interview, Prof. Johann Tomforde, co-creator of the iconic smart city coupé and former long-standing Managing Director for Development and Production at MCC smart GmbH, provides an in-depth insight into the history and vision behind the automotive brand. He recounts the inception of the smart concept in 1972 and its evolution into the groundbreaking launch of the first smart vehicle in 1997, the iconic smart fortwo. Though no longer active within the company, Tomforde gives us a glimpse into his pivotal role in shaping smart’s foundational philosophy of merging practicality with emotional appeal.

‘With any new development, you have to think about how you can create something particularly characteristic. In our case, we thought about what the vehicle should be able to do better than others, what unique selling points it should have, and how best to communicate these. You also have to involve society and prepare people for it. At the time, the smart fortwo was a completely new and unknown concept. It took time and targeted public relations work to highlight the possibility of solving issues like emissions, a lack of parking spaces, and a shortage of traffic space. The compact smart offered a solution that was both rationally and emotionally convincing. It was not only a practical, but also a desirable product, with an iconic design and unique features that other vehicles did not have,’ begins Prof. Johann Tomforde, former long-standing Managing Director for Development and Production at MCC smart GmbH.

on the occasion of the introduction of the smart Concept #5, Prof. Johann Tomforde provides an in-depth insight into the history and vision behind the automotive company

smart revolutionizes electric mobility with its all-new smart concept #5

Looking to the future, the smart Concept #5 promises to elevate smart’s design and engineering benchmarks. Guided by contemporary trends in electromobility, the design team at smart introduced the new model as the most spacious and versatile vehicle to date. The smart Concept #5 features all-wheel drive, off-road tires, and an 800-volt system with a battery capacity of over 100 kWh, enabling an electric range of more than 550 kilometers. The exterior combines rugged functionality with an adventurous spirit, incorporating an integrated winch, illuminating roof light bar, and bold design lines. Inside, advanced OLED screens and zero-gravity front seats highlight the vehicle’s commitment to both innovation and comfort. Prof. Johann Tomforde, leader of the creation of the groundbreaking two-seater in the 1990s, recounts his journey back to the 1997 global strategy with an enthusiasm that reflects the heart and soul of the automotive company.

‘The smart philosophy, as we once created it, is not limited to two-seaters and urban mobility, but to mobility that is fun, sustainable, somehow original, and has an iconic design. smart is still pursuing these principles today and is on the right track, as shown by the smart Concept #5 presented at the Beijing Auto Show (BJAS), which I find very interesting. Back in my day, in 1997, we developed a global strategy for smart and considered how the brand and products could develop further in various segments – not as a late follower imitating something that was already a trend, but as a trendsetter. My wish is: smart must always remain something special. smart must be different from these run-of-the-mill cars, of which there are unfortunately far too many. I want to see character, an iconic design and, above all, sophistication that never ceases to surprise,’ says Prof. Johann Tomforde, as he preempts the new design.

Tomforde, co-creator of the groundbreaking two-seater in the 1990s, shares his journey with enthusiasm that reflects smart’s spirit

history of compact design and bold technology

The 2024 launch of the design study vehicle of the upcoming smart #5 represents more than just a new model – it signifies smart’s purpose in remaining a trendsetter in electric mobility. The present lineup, consisting of the refined allrounder smart #1 and the stylish accelerator smart #3, demonstrates the company’s commitment to addressing modern customer needs. Following a test-drive, Tomforde praises smart #3’s balance of power, efficiency, and range.

‘For me, when driving an electric car, it is very important that, depending on my mood, I can either glide along in a relaxed manner and arrive at my destination calmly or, if necessary, accelerate powerfully and react quickly in dangerous situations. This ability and power delivery of the electric drive have been achieved wonderfully in the smart #3. The range also plays a decisive role – and in the BRABUS line this is surprisingly good considering the drive power,’ continues Tomforde.

the company’s acclaimed smart #3 with Prof. Johann Tomforde

Tomforde’s insights reveal the brand’s main goal, which is to design vehicles that inspire both rational and emotional connections. He emphasizes that a car’s appeal extends beyond functionality; its design, colors, and unique features make it a reflection of the owner’s identity. The smart fortwo, in particular, achieved this balance with its compact dimensions and iconic aesthetics. Tomforde remains an influential voice in discussions about sustainable mobility and compact car design, but he makes clear that smart’s future lies in the hands of its current visionaries. The smart Concept #5 exemplifies how the brand is evolving beyond its urban roots while staying true to its iconic design principles.

‘A modern vehicle should reliably fulfill basic functions and offer good value for money. However, cars are not only bought for rational reasons, but above all for emotional reasons. Even if nobody wants to admit it, a few typical elements such as design, colors and materials as well as that “special something” often decide the purchase. As an owner, you don’t want an interchangeable vehicle, but one with character that suits you and radiates something special. One aspect that is often underestimated is how you are perceived by your neighbors or friends: do you have to apologize for your car, or are you envied for it?’ he questions.

with the smart Concept #5, smart presents its most spacious and versatile vehicle to date

Looking ahead, smart’s vision for the future remains deeply connected to its pioneering spirit. Tomforde envisions a return to the brand’s origins with a modern, electric two-seater – a nod to the fortwo that redefined urban mobility decades ago. Compact, agile, and modular, such a vehicle would cater to the needs of 2030’s urban dwellers while retaining the brand’s hallmark design principles.

‘A two-seater car in 2030 should essentially embody the same basic values as the smart fortwo did back then: an ingenious safety concept, a high standard of quality, a very original design, practical handling, agility, and ability to drive. It should be a car that is fun for all social classes. In terms of trends in 2030, we will have to think about where the car will be used. There should also be more interchangeable elements such as seat covers. I would like to see the modular concept developed further to become more needs-oriented, customer-friendly, and lifestyle-oriented,’ concludes Prof. Johann Tomforde.

inside, the vehicle prioritizes comfort and advanced technology, featuring OLED screens

The smart Concept #5 introduces the brand to the premium mid-size SUV segment with advanced features that extend its utility beyond urban settings. Embracing outdoor-focused design features, the 2024 concept vehicle exhibits all-wheel drive, and shows cutting-edge technology such as an 800-volt system with a battery capacity of over 100 kWh for rapid charging and an electric range exceeding 550 kilometers.

Its exterior is defined by a robust silhouette and functional elements like an integrated winch and illuminating roof light bar. Inside, the vehicle prioritizes comfort and advanced technology, featuring OLED screens powered by AMD processors, ambient lighting, and innovative safety and comfort options such as a zero-gravity front seat.

the smart Concept #5 features ambient lighting, and innovative safety and comfort options such as a zero-gravity front seat