Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more

For the tightest streets and smallest parking spaces, the smart #2 is the specialist. Its 2,746 mm length and published 6.95 m curb-to-curb turning circle are designed around low-speed urban maneuvering. The Fiat 500e is the more versatile city hatchback: it has four seats, two battery choices, and a 42 kWh version with up to 334 km WLTP.

The decision also depends on timing. The smart #2 was unveiled in Europe on 12 October 2026, with early ordering following the premiere and full e-commerce planned for the first half of 2027. The Fiat 500e is already covered by production technical and charging specifications. Smart’s 290 km range is a target figure, while Fiat’s range figures describe current versions.

What each car is—and when you can buy it

smart #2: a two-seat urban EV

The smart #2 is the current electric successor concept to the fortwo. smart Europe describes it as a two-seat, rear-wheel-drive urban electric vehicle. It was unveiled on 12 October 2026, and European early ordering is scheduled to follow the premiere. Full e-commerce launch is planned for the first half of 2027, so availability, final equipment and market-specific specifications can still change.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

smart Europe CEO Wolfgang Ufer called it “much more than a new addition to our portfolio” and described it as “the return of a true automotive icon, reimagined for the cities of today.” That positioning is reflected in the hard numbers: the #2 is exceptionally short and has a very small published turning circle. Its compromise is equally clear: there are only two seats, and the 290 km WLTP figure is identified as a target for the new model rather than a final production result.

Popular on Amazon
Sale
bokman Portable Level 1&2 EV Charger, 16A 20ft, NEMA 6-20P/5-15 Adapter | Dual 120V/240V, Adjustable 6-16A & 1-12H Delay timer, IP65, J1772 Connector, ETL Certified
  • Road-Trip Ready & Apartment-Friendly: Comes with a 20ft heavy-duty cable that easily spans a standard parking space, plus a NEMA 5-15 adapter for plug and play convenience. Whether you're charging at home or hitting the highway, this portable EV Charger is your ultimate travel companion for weekend getaways and camping trips
  • Delay Timer & Adjustable Current: Use the built-in timer to delay your start by 1-12 hours and easily harvest off-peak energy savings. Then pick from 6/8/10/12/16A (Level 2) to match your garage grid. It automatically locks in your favorite setting and never forces you to re-adjust. No complicated apps or Wi-Fi needed, just straightforward, reliable control
  • Tactile Buttons & LED Screen: No glitchy smartphone apps or finicky touchscreens that lag, freeze, and misfire in winter. Our EV charger is engineered with a high-definition LED display that tracks critical real-time data, including live voltage and current. Tactile buttons deliver direct, satisfying click feedback that remains highly responsive even when wearing heavy winter gloves or operating in torrential downpours—conditions where standard touchscreens completely fail
  • ETL Certified Safety & IP65 All-Weather Shield: ETL certified to meet US safety standards for charging. Engineered with a certified IP65 dust-and-waterproof enclosure and a heavy-duty TPE cable that operates reliably across a wide -22°F to 130°F range. An intelligent multi-protection defense system (GFCI, over-voltage, over-current, surge, short-circuit, and over-temp) keeps a 24/7 watch for 100% safe, unattended overnight charging in any weather
  • J1772 Compatible + Dual-Level Charging: Works with all J1772 EVs (Tesla requires a separate J1772 adapter). Level 2: built-in NEMA 6-20 plug. Level 1: included NEMA 5-15 adapter fits any standard outlet. Please confirm your outlet is NEMA 6-20 or 5-15 before purchase

Fiat 500e: an established compact hatchback

The Fiat 500e is a compact electric city hatchback with front-wheel drive. Current Fiat technical information lists two battery capacities: 23.8 kWh and 42 kWh. Depending on the battery, published WLTP range is up to 190 km or 334 km. Fiat also publishes production charging specifications, including both alternating-current (AC) and direct-current (DC) rates.

The 500e is therefore the less specialized choice. It remains small enough for urban use, but its four-seat layout and larger-battery option make it suitable for drivers who combine city trips with longer suburban or regional journeys.

At-a-glance comparison

Specification smart #2 Fiat 500e
Body and stated use Two-seat urban EV Compact electric city hatchback
Length 2,746 mm 3,632 mm
Turning circle 6.95 m, curb-to-curb Not stated on the cited Fiat technical page
Battery options 35.8 kWh LFP 23.8 kWh or 42 kWh
Published WLTP range Up to 290 km, target value Up to 190 km with 23.8 kWh or 334 km with 42 kWh
DC charging claim 65 kW; 10–80% in 20 minutes 50 kW or 85 kW, depending on version
Published DC charging window 10–80% in 20 minutes 20–80% in approximately 21–30 minutes
AC charging Connector and amperage should be verified by market Up to 11 kW
Drive layout Rear-wheel drive Front-wheel drive
European timing Unveiled 12 October 2026; full e-commerce planned for the first half of 2027 Current production specifications available

The charging windows are not a laboratory head-to-head: smart quotes 10–80%, while Fiat quotes 20–80%, and the Fiat time varies by version. Treat them as directional manufacturer claims rather than proof that one car will always charge faster at a public station.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Which is easier to park?

The smart #2 has the clear dimensional advantage

At 2,746 mm long, the smart #2 is 886 mm shorter than the 3,632 mm Fiat 500e. That difference is nearly 0.9 metre of car to place in a parallel-parking gap or a short perpendicular bay. The smart also has a published 6.95 m curb-to-curb turning circle, a figure directly relevant when making a U-turn in a narrow lane or lining up with a tight garage entrance.

Length and turning circle do not describe every aspect of maneuverability. Mirror width, steering response, visibility and the shape of a particular parking space still matter. However, on the supplied specifications alone, the smart is the purpose-built tool for the most constrained streets.

Also popular on Amazon
EVDANCE Level 1&2 EV Charger, Electric Vehicle Portable Charger with 25FT Cable, ETL Listed J1772 EVSE for All EVs & PHEVs, 12A 120V/16A 240V(Black, 16A Max | NEMA 5-15&6-20(Standard Home Plug))
  • Flex Level 1 EV Charger - The EVDANCE Level 1 electric car charger is compatible with J1772 electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles (North American Standard). *Tesla requires a SAE J1772 adapter.
  • Convenient to Use - This charger has both NEMA 6-20 plug for 16A 240V charging (3.68kW, 10-12 mi/h) and a NEMA 6-20 to 5-15 plug adapter for 12A 120V charging (1.44kW, 2-5 mi/h). The included bag makes it easier to carry on the go. It also has a 25ft cable length, you can use it flexibly from anywhere in the garage or driveway.
  • Check Your Outlet Type -This charger works with standard 120V NEMA 5-15/5-20 outlets (2-5 mph charging speed) and 240V NEMA 6-20 outlets (10-12 mph) . It's not compatible with NEMA 6-15/10-30/14-30/14-50/6-50 outlets – you'll need a NEMA 14-50/14-30/10-30/6-50 to 6-20 adapter (sold separately) to connect.
  • Compatible EV Models -This EV charger works with most major electric vehicles, including Ford, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Audi, Nissan Ariya, Rivian R1S, Kia, and others. However, it's not compatible with Mini Cooper Electric Hardtop,Toyota Prus Prime/Z4X/RAV4Prime, Porsche Taycan Base/4S/Turbo/Turbo S or Tesla models (Tesla requires a J1772 to Tesla Adapter, sold separately). For a full list of compatible models, check out the Full Compatibility List on our product page.
  • Indication Displays - LED display that can tell you the status as well as indicate errors while charging your electric vehicle.

What the Fiat’s missing turning-circle figure means

Fiat’s cited technical page does not state a turning-circle measurement for the 500e. That is not evidence that the hatchback is difficult to maneuver; it simply means there is no directly comparable published figure in the available specification. Drivers who regularly use a specific multistorey car park should check the local vehicle dimensions and, if possible, test the car in that environment.

Parking verdict

Choose the smart #2 when the decisive problem is physical space: narrow historic streets, short curbside bays or a very small home garage. Choose the 500e when ordinary city parking is manageable and the benefits of a conventional hatchback matter more than the final few centimetres.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Seats, passengers and everyday practicality

Two seats make the smart a focused commuter

The smart #2 is a strict two-seater. It can suit a solo driver, a couple who rarely carry passengers, or a household that already has another vehicle for family duties. Its two-seat layout also changes how you evaluate the car: passenger access and rear-seat flexibility are irrelevant, while the ability to occupy a small footprint becomes central.

Do not buy the smart expecting occasional rear-seat capacity. There is no third or fourth place for a child, adult passenger or emergency lift. If you routinely carry more than one passenger, the two-seat restriction outweighs the parking advantage.

The Fiat 500e is the flexible choice

The Fiat 500e is a city hatchback rather than a two-seat microcar. Its four-seat configuration makes school runs, shared commuting and carrying an extra passenger possible. The available data does not establish a boot-volume comparison, so cargo capacity should be checked in the exact body and trim sold in your market rather than inferred from exterior length alone.

Also popular on Amazon
Sale
2026 Upgraded Level 1&2 EV Charger for ALL J1772 EV, NEMA5-15/6-20Plug | Adjustable Current& Timer, 8-16A, 110-240V, 21Ft Charging Cable, Electric Car Charger, Portable/Home EV charger/Charging Cord
  • [2026 INTELLIGENT CHARGING UPGRADE — PRECISION CONTROL MEETS SMART SCHEDULING] After surveying 100K+ U.S. EV owners, the Raylix R&D team found that nearly all drivers recognized the necessity of adjustable current and scheduled charging. Our upgraded J1772 charger features 4-level adjustable current (8A/10A/12A/16A) and a 1–12 hour smart delay timer. Whether you're charging overnight or during off-peak hours, enjoy smarter energy use, lower costs, and total convenience—on your schedule.
  • [ONE CHARGER, ALL J1772 EVs/PHEVs READY!] Compatible with all SAE J1772 electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids—whether it’s Ford, GM, Nissan, Audi, BMW, Kia, Hyundai, Honda, Chevy, or more. Perfect for home or on-the-road charging, our 16A Level 1 & 2 charger ensures your EV is always powered and ready for any journey.
  • [CHARGE 4× FASTER — NO MORE WAITING] In a rush? Our 16A Level 1 & 2 charger delivers charging speeds up to 4× faster than standard 8A Charger Level 1. Whether it's an early commute, a spontaneous trip, or last-minute errands, your EV will be ready when you are.
  • [LEVEL 1 & 2 PORTABLE CHARGER — CHARGE ANYWHERE, ANYTIME] Designed for maximum flexibility, Raylix Level 1 & 2 EV charger features both 5-15 and 6-20 plug compatibility. Whether you're charging in your garage, at a friend's house, or at a roadside motel. NEMA 6-20 plug for Level 2 ev charging (240V, 16A, 3.68kW, 9-12 miles/hr) and a NEMA 5-15 adapter for Level 1 ev charging (120V, 12A, 1.44kW, 3-5 miles/hr) NOTE: In compliance with North American electrical safety standards, the charger automatically limits current to 12A when using a 5-15 outlet—protecting both your vehicle and your home’s electrical system.
  • [AT-A-GLANCE CHARGING COMMAND: TOTAL CONTROL, INSTANTLY] While most ev chargers solutions confine vital data to in-car screens, the Raylix tesla charger breaks free with its enhanced TFT color display. This Raylix-exclusive feature delivers crystal-clear, real-time updates—voltage, current, power load, AND critical charging temperature—directly on the unit. Just one glance gives you complete charging insight. It’s not just information; it's the empowering peace of mind and satisfying control that transforms every charge into a masterfully managed experience.

That flexibility is useful even when most journeys are short. A car that can carry another person may prevent the need for a second vehicle or a taxi on the occasional trip, while the larger battery can reduce charging stops for drivers who leave the city regularly.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Range: the Fiat offers more choice and a higher maximum

Fiat 500e battery options

Fiat offers a 23.8 kWh battery with up to 190 km WLTP and a 42 kWh battery with up to 334 km WLTP. The 23.8 kWh version can be attractive when the car is used almost entirely for short urban journeys and minimizing battery size is a priority. The 42 kWh version costs weight and space in engineering terms, but it provides a substantially larger published driving buffer between charges.

WLTP is a standardized laboratory cycle, not a guarantee for every driver. Cold weather, motorway speeds, heating or air-conditioning use, hills, payload and traffic can all reduce the distance achieved in practice. Use the figures to compare versions under the same test system, then size your battery around your longest regular day rather than an optimistic best case.

smart #2 range status

The smart #2 uses a 35.8 kWh LFP battery and smart publishes up to 290 km WLTP as a target value. Because the car was newly unveiled in October 2026 and the figure is explicitly a target, final homologated range and market-specific equipment should be confirmed when ordering opens. The target sits between Fiat’s two published battery outcomes: above the 23.8 kWh car’s 190 km and below the 42 kWh car’s 334 km.

How to choose a range level

  • Mostly short trips with home charging: the Fiat 500e 23.8 kWh can cover the stated use case if its 190 km WLTP rating leaves a comfortable reserve for weather and detours.
  • Frequent regional trips: the Fiat 500e 42 kWh has the highest published range at 334 km WLTP.
  • Urban-only use where parking dominates: the smart #2’s target of 290 km WLTP may be sufficient, but confirm the final production figure before paying a deposit.
  • No dependable overnight charging: prioritize the version with the range and public-charging access that fit your weekly mileage; a small battery is less convenient when every charge must be made away from home.

Charging speed and the cable you need

smart #2 charging claim

smart quotes a maximum DC charging rate of 65 kW and a 10–80% charging time of 20 minutes for the #2. Those figures come from the launch information and should be treated as applicable to the stated configuration when final production specifications are confirmed. The AC connector, cable rating and amperage can vary by market, so verify them with the local smart specification before buying accessories.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Also popular on Amazon
BETUMODA Level 1 EV Charger - 2.8 Inch LED Touch Screen, 25FT, 110V/240V | 16 Amp, NEMA 6-20 & NEMA 5-15 Plug Adapter, Portable Electric Car Charger for J1772 EVs and Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles
  • SAE J1772 Standard Charger: Compatible with all North American electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, including Ford, Chevrolet, Nissan, BMW, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Kia, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Rivian, Porsche, Toyota, Honda, Jeep, and GMC. Tesla vehicles can be charged with a separate SAE J1772 adapter (sold separately).
  • Adjustable Current: Choose from 8A, 10A, 13A, or 16A to match your vehicle’s charging needs.Dual Plug Compatibility,NEMA 6-20 Plug (220/240V): Delivers up to 3.84 kW/h, providing approximately 15.36 MPH charging speed at 16A.NEMA 5-15 Plug (110/120V): Supports 10A charging at 120V, offering 1.2 kW/h (around 4.4 MPH). Customizable Charging: Easily adjust current to suit different charging scenarios, giving you maximum flexibility at home or on the go
  • Hassle-Free Installation: Forget complicated setups—just plug in and go. Equipped with NEMA 5-15 and NEMA 6-20 (220V/240V) connectors, it works with any standard 110V–240V outlet. The 25-foot cable gives you the freedom to reach vehicles parked at a distance, making charging convenient anywhere.
  • Intelligent Charging: Featuring a 2.8-inch touch display, you can easily select the charging current (8A / 10A / 13A / 16A) and schedule charging with a 1–12 hour delayed start. Perfect for maximizing off-peak hours and cutting electricity costs. (Example: Set a 2-hour delay, and charging begins automatically after 2 hours.)
  • Comprehensive Safety: Designed to meet CE and FCC safety standards, this charger offers multiple layers of protection, including overvoltage, overload, short-circuit, grounding, and leakage safeguards. The durable IP65-rated waterproof housing and reinforced cable ensure reliable charging in all weather conditions, keeping your vehicle safe year-round.

Fiat 500e charging specifications

Fiat lists either 50 kW or 85 kW DC charging, depending on the 500e version. Its charging guidance gives approximately 21–30 minutes for a 20–80% DC session, with the exact time tied to the version and charging rate. AC charging is supported at up to 11 kW.

The different starting points matter. A 10–80% session replenishes a larger percentage of the smart’s battery than Fiat’s 20–80% window, so elapsed minutes cannot be compared without equalizing the energy added. Public chargers also reduce power as the battery approaches a high state of charge, and the station may deliver less than its advertised maximum.

What cable to use with a Fiat 500e

For AC charging, Fiat explicitly directs owners to use a Type 2/Mode 3 cable and supports up to 11 kW AC. A suitable cable lets the 500e connect to compatible public AC posts and a home wallbox. Check the cable’s current rating, connector type and length against the car and the installation before purchasing; an 11 kW vehicle connection does not make a lower-rated home circuit deliver 11 kW.

  1. Confirm the car’s AC capability. The Fiat 500e supports up to 11 kW AC, but the actual rate is limited by the vehicle, wallbox, supply and cable together.
  2. Use a Type 2/Mode 3 cable for AC posts. Keep the cable in the car if you use untethered public chargers or need a backup connection.
  3. Check the electrical installation. A qualified installer should verify available supply, protective devices and whether your home can support the selected wallbox power.
  4. Set charging around your routine. Overnight AC charging is usually the practical pattern for a car that returns home daily; DC is primarily useful when time matters during a journey.

The smart #2’s final connector and amperage should be verified for the country in which you register it. Do not assume that a Fiat cable, a domestic socket or a public AC lead is automatically compatible with every smart configuration.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Rear-wheel drive versus front-wheel drive in town

What the layouts tell you

The smart #2 is rear-wheel drive, while the Fiat 500e is front-wheel drive. Drive layout alone does not determine ride comfort, traction or handling quality, and the supplied specifications do not include acceleration, tyre sizes, suspension tuning or winter testing. It does, however, describe where motor torque is sent and can help explain why the two cars are engineered differently.

Also popular on Amazon
Sale
2026 New Level 1 EV Charger, 16A 240V/ 12A 120V, 25FT Cord, J1772 EV/PHEVs | NEMA 5-15P/6-20P, 3 Prong Plug Not 4, Adjustable Current, 12H Time Delay, Off-Peak Charging, Screen Display, IP65 Waterproof
  • Universal J1772 Compatibility: Designed with a standard J1772 connector, this J1772 charger works with most J1772 electric vehicles and PHEVs, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, Rivian, Ford, Chevy, Volkswagen, Toyota and more. Note: Tesla vehicles require a J1772 to Tesla adapter (not included)
  • Flexible Outlet Compatibility: This portable EV charger comes with a NEMA 6-20 plug and a NEMA 5-15/5-20 to 6-20 adapter. Supports Level 1 (8–12A) and Level 2 (16A). Max 12A (1.44kW) on 120V NEMA 5-15/5-20 outlets, and full 16A (3.84kW) with a 240V NEMA 6-20 outlet. One charger is designed to cover home, garage, and travel charging needs with reliable performance
  • Adjustable Smart Charging Control: Customize charging safely with adjustable current settings (8A/10A/12A/16A) to match different circuits. The 0–12 hour delay timer helps schedule overnight charging during lower electricity rates. Integrated LCD display shows real-time voltage, current, power, and charging status for clear monitoring without apps. Note: Press 'A' or 'T' for 3s to set and confirm.
  • Home Charging & Travel Backup: For daily home use while remaining fully portable for travel. This level 1 ev charger includes a durable 25FT ev charging cord, providing flexible reach for garage or driveway charging. Charge overnight to take advantage of lower utility rates—potentially saving up to $500 annually on electricity costs. The included carrying case makes storage easy and keeps a dependable backup charger available in your trunk for road trips or visiting friends
  • Engineered For Safety & Durability: Built for dependable daily use, this electric car charger features an IP65 waterproof rating for all weather operation. Equipped with a UL-listed cable, fully rubberized connector, and advanced protection against overcurrent, overheating, and electrical faults. Designed to ensure safe, stable, and long-term charging performance in demanding environments

For a city buyer, the more consequential distinctions are body size, seating and charging access. A rear-drive label should not be treated as a promise of sporty behavior, just as front-wheel drive should not be treated as a disadvantage in every wet or slippery street. Evaluate the complete vehicle and the tyres fitted in your market.

Availability, specifications and the risk of buying too early

If you need a car now

The Fiat 500e has current production technical data and charging guidance, so a buyer can select a battery version and verify equipment through the local sales channel. Confirm that the quoted 190 km or 334 km WLTP figure applies to the exact body style and trim available in your country.

If you can wait for the smart #2

The smart #2 is the more intriguing option for an urban specialist, but the timeline is important. It was unveiled on 12 October 2026; European early ordering follows the premiere, and full e-commerce is planned for the first half of 2027. Final pricing, delivery dates, standard equipment, homologated range and connector details should be treated as pending until smart publishes them for your market.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Reserve or preorder only after reading the local terms. A target range is not the same as a certified final range, and launch vehicles can receive changes to software, equipment or charging specifications before customer deliveries.

Which EV fits your city-driving pattern?

Choose the smart #2 if these statements describe you

  • Your main constraint is a very short parking bay or a narrow street.
  • You normally travel alone or with one other person.
  • A published 6.95 m turning circle is more valuable than rear-seat capacity.
  • You are comfortable waiting for the 2027 commercial launch and confirming final specifications.
  • A target range of up to 290 km WLTP is adequate for your regular driving once the certified figure is known.

Choose the Fiat 500e if these statements describe you

  • You need to carry more than one passenger.
  • You want a choice between 23.8 kWh and 42 kWh batteries.
  • You value the highest published range, up to 334 km WLTP in the 42 kWh version.
  • You want production charging specifications and a car that is already represented in current technical data.
  • You can accept a longer 3,632 mm hatchback in exchange for greater everyday flexibility.

Use a weighted decision instead of a single headline number

Write down your typical week and assign priority to five factors: parking space, passenger carrying, longest regular journey, access to home or workplace charging, and how soon you need the car. Give each factor a score from one to five, then compare the two cars using only verified figures for your local versions. This prevents a dramatic dimension advantage from hiding a two-seat limitation, and it prevents a large battery from being selected when your real problem is fitting into a tiny garage.

Checks to complete before ordering

  1. Measure your parking space. Compare the bay and garage opening with the vehicle’s full exterior dimensions, allowing room for mirrors, doors and charging access.
  2. Confirm seating needs. Decide whether a rear passenger will be needed even occasionally; the smart #2 cannot provide that capacity.
  3. Match range to your calendar. Use your longest normal day, not the shortest commute, and allow for winter and motorway penalties that WLTP does not represent directly.
  4. Verify the charging hardware. For the Fiat 500e, check that your Type 2/Mode 3 cable and wallbox are rated for the intended AC power. For the smart #2, confirm the market-specific connector and amperage once ordering information is published.
  5. Compare like-for-like charging times. Note the battery percentage window, version and peak power behind every quoted number.
  6. Check delivery certainty. Fiat’s figures describe current production data; smart’s launch timing and target range remain subject to final market confirmation.

Final verdict

The smart #2 is better for the narrowest city environments because it is 886 mm shorter than the Fiat 500e and has a published 6.95 m turning circle. It is the right answer when parking geometry and two-seat urban travel define the brief.

The Fiat 500e is the better all-round city EV for most households. Its four-seat hatchback body, current production specifications and choice of 23.8 kWh or 42 kWh batteries cover more use cases, and the 42 kWh version’s up-to-334 km WLTP rating exceeds the smart #2’s current 290 km target. Pick the smart for maximum maneuverability; pick the Fiat when flexibility, range choice and availability matter more.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.