The Smart eDC 60 kW is a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor developed jointly by Smart and Renault for the third-generation Smart EQ Fortwo and Forfour. It delivers 60 kW (82 PS) and 160 Nm of torque, driving the rear wheels through a single-speed reduction gearbox. This motor enables urban-focused EV performance with zero tailpipe emissions and is integrated with Smart’s modular electric drive platform.
Fitted exclusively to the Smart EQ Fortwo (W453) and Forfour (HA453) from 2017 to 2022, the eDC 60 kW was engineered for compact city mobility, offering brisk acceleration below 60 km/h and efficient regenerative braking. Emissions compliance is inherently met as a zero-emission vehicle under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 Annex I, with type approval granted by the UK Vehicle Certification Agency.
One documented concern is inverter thermal derating under sustained high-load conditions, highlighted in Smart Technical Service Bulletin STB-EM-2019-04. This is linked to coolant flow restrictions in the power electronics loop during ambient temperatures above 35 °C. From MY2020, Smart introduced an updated inverter cooling circuit with revised pump calibration to mitigate thermal events.
Smart
All production years (2017–2022) meet zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) classification under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 and UK VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678.
The Smart eDC 60 kW is a 60 kW permanent-magnet synchronous motor engineered for compact urban EVs (2017–2022). It combines a single-speed reduction gearbox with regenerative braking to deliver responsive low-speed performance and efficient energy recovery. Designed to meet zero-emission standards under EU and UK regulations, it prioritizes simplicity and serviceability in city driving.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | N/A (electric motor) | |
| Fuel type | Electric (battery-powered) | |
| Configuration | Permanent-magnet synchronous motor, rear-mounted | |
| Aspiration | N/A | |
| Bore × stroke | N/A | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) | |
| Torque | 160 Nm (constant from 0 rpm) | |
| Fuel system | 400 V lithium-ion traction battery (17.6 kWh usable) | |
| Emissions standard | Zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) | |
| Compression ratio | N/A | |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled (separate circuits for motor and inverter) | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | N/A | |
| Oil type | Gear oil: Castrol Syntrax Long Life 75W-90 (for reduction gearbox) | |
| Dry weight | 45 kg (motor only) |
The eDC 60 kW motor provides instant torque ideal for stop-start urban driving but requires periodic inspection of the inverter coolant circuit to prevent thermal derating. The reduction gearbox uses a specific synthetic gear oil (Castrol Syntrax 75W-90) that must be replaced every 80,000 km or 5 years per Smart SIB EM-2020-02. High ambient temperatures (>35 °C) with frequent fast charging can accelerate inverter wear; post-2020 models include an upgraded coolant pump. Battery preconditioning during DC fast charging is recommended to preserve cell longevity.
Oil Specs: Reduction gearbox requires Castrol Syntrax Long Life 75W-90 (Smart SIB EM-2020-02). Not interchangeable with standard ATF.
Emissions: Classified as Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 and VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85. Peak output sustained for ≤30 seconds; continuous rating is 35 kW (Smart TIS Doc. E-MOT-2017).
Smart Technical Information System (TIS): Docs E-MOT-2017, COOL-EM-2019, BAT-2018
Smart Service Information Bulletin STB-EM-2019-04, SIB EM-2020-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 on emission standards
The Smart eDC 60 kW was used across Smart's W453/HA453 platforms with rear-mounted longitudinal motor mounting and co-developed with Renault. This motor received platform-specific adaptations—shorter half-shafts in the Fortwo and revised suspension geometry in the Forfour—and from 2020 the updated inverter cooling circuit, creating minor service part distinctions. The powertrain shares core components with the Renault Zoe R110 motor architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the motor code stamped on the rear housing near the high-voltage connector (Smart TIS E-MOT-2017). The 8th VIN digit is 'Z' for all eDC 60 kW-equipped Smart EQ models. Pre-2020 units use inverter part number A0019895402; post-2020 models use A0019896102 with enhanced coolant flow. Visual cue: updated inverter has dual coolant hoses (vs. single on early units). Gearbox oil fill plug requires 8 mm Allen key; do not confuse with brake fluid reservoir. Service parts for inverter cooling are not interchangeable across model years per Smart SIB EM-2020-02.
The eDC 60 kW's primary reliability risk is inverter thermal derating under high ambient temperatures, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for ride-hailing or frequent DC fast charging. Smart internal field data from 2020 indicated a measurable rate of inverter performance degradation in southern European markets, while UK DVSA records show minimal MOT failures due to the absence of emissions hardware. Sustained high-load cycles without adequate cooldown make coolant system integrity critical.
Analysis derived from Smart technical bulletins (2019–2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SMART EDC-60KW.
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