Smart Automobile, the joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely, has launched its all-electric Smart #5 SUV in Hong Kong and debuted the model in Malaysia, marking a strategic move into more right-hand drive markets in Asia.
The Smart #5, unveiled on May 9, is offered in Hong Kong in four variants—Pro, Premium, Brabus, and Summit Edition—with prices ranging from HK$289,000 (US$37,100) to HK$439,000. The model is expected to go on sale in Malaysia during the second half of 2025.
“The launch of Smart #5 in Hong Kong and Malaysia premiere represent an important step in our Asia Market. These markets have shown strong enthusiasm for smart’s premium electric vehicles,” said Mandy Zhang, Global Chief Marketing Officer of Smart.
Founded in 1998, the Smart brand was initially created by Mercedes-Benz to cater to the urban mobility segment. In 2020, the German automaker partnered with China’s Geely to relaunch the brand with a focus on electrification. Under the joint venture, Mercedes-Benz leads design while Geely oversees engineering and production, with headquarters located in Ningbo, Zhejiang province.
The Smart #5 is positioned as the brand’s first premium mid-size SUV, expanding beyond its traditional compact offerings. It joins the Smart #1 and Smart #3 in the company’s lineup, with prices in mainland China ranging from RMB 149,900 to RMB 368,000. The Smart #5 is the most expensive of the three, starting at RMB 239,900.
As of April 2025, Smart’s global footprint covers 37 markets across China, Europe, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. The company plans to enter 10 additional overseas markets next year.