Man vs machine: when tech infuriates more than assists

Updated: 18 September 2024

► Our Smart #1 long-term test
► Month 2 living with the EV hatch
► Catch up with month 1 here

ARRGGHH. Not long into life with a Smart #1 and it’s clear the two of us are not co-existing well. I tried to set it up with the Smart app to unlock some bonus features, but no dice – and very unhelpful ‘just reinstall the app’ advice from tech support.

The powered door handles pop back in just as you’re about to reach for them – why do that when the car is parked and unlocked?! The adaptive cruise is so paranoid that the closest follow distance is far enough for people to cut you up.

The cherry on top? ‘BEEP BEEP BEEP. Fatigue warning. Please take a break.’ After just five minutes at the wheel…

All of this stuff is seemingly designed to help, but it just gives me a headache.

Read month 1 here

Smart #1 – month 2 of the CAR magazine long-term test

Logbook: Smart #1 Premium

Price: £38,950 (£38,950 as tested)
Performance: 66kWh battery, e-motor, 268bhp, 6.7sec 0-62mph, 112mph
Efficiency: 3.7 miles per kWh (official), 2.54 miles per kWh (tested)
Range: 273 miles (official), 204 miles (tested)
Energy cost: 14.7p per mile
Miles this month: 1337
Total miles: 5430

By Jake Groves

CAR's deputy news editor, gamer, serial Lego-ist, lover of hot hatches

Comments