Detroit 2012: Smart For-us concept

• Smart For-us at Detroit motor show 2012
• Pick-up concept car
• Previews future Smart models

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The Smart For-us concept car makes its debut at the Detroit motor show.

The Smart For-us is a design study to show how a Smart pick-up could look. It’s 85cm longer than the Smart Fortwo coupe, with a 61cm longer wheelbase. It’s also lower and wider.

The For-us uses a similar design language to the Forvision concept car, which made its debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September. Smart describes it as having a ‘friendly yet assertive face’ and a mix of convex and ‘sensuously shaped’ surfaces.

The cabin has two seats, and behind that is a load floor and tailgate that are electrically powered to provide easy access and loading.

A video camera linked to a smartphone replaces a conventional rear-view mirror, while the trim is a blend of white and brushed aluminium finishes.

The powertrain is based on that of the Smart Fortwo ED, with a 74bhp electric motor and a lithium-ion battery.

Although a production version of the For-us is unlikely, it previews styling and technology that is likely to be used for the next Fortwo, which is due in 2013.

The For-us could also showcase elements of the new four-seater Forfour model, which is due in 2014. The new Forfour will be co-developed with Renault, as part of the alliance between Daimler and Renault-Nissan.

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