Chasing the Northern Lights: A Thrilling Ride with smart Through Finland

Winter driving in the Finnish backcountry is a unique and exhilarating challenge. This February, smart brought together a group of European content creators in eight smart #1 and #3 , to embark on a journey through the snow-covered wilderness near Kuusamo and Ruka, Finland. This experience not only created unforgettable moments but also provided impressive experiences on icy road conditions, and a chance to see just how the vehicles delivered when it mattered most.

Grip where it matters 

Winter driving is all about maintaining grip and stability. The smart #1¹ and #3² models perfectly supported their drivers on the icy roads in northern Finland around Kuusamo and Ruka with their all-wheel- and rear-wheel-drive setup and comprehensive driver assistance systems. With traction control and electronic stability control (ESC), the vehicles remained stable on the most challenging surfaces. Even on the frozen lake courses, which all drivers mastered under the guidance of driving academy instructors of the multiple rally world champion Juha Kankkunen, both vehicle models were safely steered under very special conditions. 

Cold? Not a problem

Battery performance is the key to efficiency for electric vehicles in particularly cold conditions like winter and early springtime. The smart #1 and #3 models are equipped with a heat pump system designed to maintain optimal battery performance even in subzero temperatures. A heat pump reduces energy consumption for cabin heating by using available heat efficiently and drawing less power from the battery. This not only increases the range of the vehicles but helps to preserve battery health over time. In the icy landscapes of northern Finland, that means more confidence, more comfort, and a truly enjoyable winter drive.

Preheating – more than just comfort

Getting into a cold car in freezing weather is never fun, but the smart #1 and #3 made it comfortable for all passengers right from the start. Thanks to the preheating function, the cabins were always cozy and warm, while heated seats and steering wheels provided instant relief from the cold. More than just comfort, preheating also plays a crucial role in efficiency as it reduces the need for battery power to heat the cabin while driving, helping to preserve range. Plus, the ventilation system kept the windows clear, ensuring visibility and safety in subzero conditions.

Final verdict: Impressive cars, stunning nature

This wasn't just a scenic winter drive; it was an exciting experience to get to know smart from a different angle. The smart #1 and #3 impressed with cutting-edge technology and comfort features, including preheating for a warm start in cold temperatures, an efficient heat pump system to maintain optimal cabin conditions, and exceptional interior comfort that kept everyone relaxed during the journey. With these features, smart ensures that you stay comfortable and secure on the road, allowing you to fully enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Finnish landscape.

Got interested? Find out more about the smart #1 and smart #3 at smart.com. 

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¹Combined energy consumption in kWh/100 km (WLTP): 16.3 (Premium/25th Anniversary Edition), 16.8 (Pro+), 17.2 (Pro), 17.6 (BRABUS/Pulse); combined CO2 emissions (during the operation of the vehicle) in g/km (WLTP): 0; CO2 efficiency class: A; electric range (WLTP) in km: 415 (BRABUS/Pulse), 455 (Premium/25th Anniversary Edition), 435 (Pro+), 325 (Pro). 

²Combined energy consumption in kWh/100 km (WLTP): 16.8 (Premium), 17.4 (Pro+), 18.1 (Pro), 18.2 (BRABUS/Pulse); combined CO2 emissions (during the operation of the vehicle) in g/km (WLTP): 0; CO2 efficiency class: A; electric range (WLTP) in km: 400 (BRABUS/Pulse), 440 (Premium), 420 (Pro+), 310 (Pro).