Smart eyes network prepares for sales

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【Summary】Smart plans to expand its UK agency dealer network from 23 to 36 sites to support its growth ambition. The brand's new electric crossover will go on sale in August, with hopes of increasing UK sales to 8,000-12,000 units by 2025. Smart has secured an initial allocation of 4,000 vehicles and expects to deliver them in 2-3 weeks. The majority of sales are expected to be via leasing channels. Smart will direct all vehicle supply through its dealers rather than making direct supply arrangements.

FutureCar Staff Aug 17, 2023 6:18 AM PT

Smart is planning to expand its UK agency dealer network from 23 to 36 sites in the coming years. This expansion is aimed at supporting the company's growth ambition. The car brand is set to launch its all-new #1 electric crossover at the end of August, signaling a fresh start for the company.

In recent years, Smart sales have declined due to its aging model line-up. However, the brand received a lifeline in 2019 when Geely acquired a 50% stake in it from Mercedes-Benz. Since then, the two car giants have collaborated to develop the all-new #1, which combines Geely's platform and powertrain with the Mercedes-designed body and interior.

David Browne, the UK chief executive of Smart, has expressed strong volume aspirations for the brand. He hopes that by 2025, Smart's UK sales will reach 8,000 to 12,000 units, a level last achieved in 2016. Initially, a network of 23 agency sites has been established, which is approximately half the number of Smart branded dealerships that existed a decade ago. However, as sales increase, Smart expects the number of dealers to grow to 36.

To meet the demand for the all-new #1, Smart has secured an initial allocation of 4,000 vehicles, which will last until the end of 2023. At a recent launch event, it was revealed that Smart aims to deliver vehicles within 2-3 weeks, utilizing short lead times as a key driver of sales. The majority of Smart #1s are expected to be sold through leasing channels, following the trend in the market where around 70% of premium electric cars are sold this way.

Graeme Jenkins, the UK fleet manager for Smart, confirmed that all vehicle supply will be directed through its dealerships, and Smart will not establish any direct supply arrangements. He expressed gratitude for the support received from their current agents, who have been receptive to fleet sales and understand the brand's journey.