smart is returning to its roots with the new #2. The all-electric two-seater is designed to bring the concept of the classic city runabout into the modern era. Once again, Sennheiser is providing the perfect sound for the brand’s smallest model. Select trim levels will feature an audio system with seven speakers, developed specifically for the compact cabin.
With this, smart and Sennheiser are continuing the collaboration they began with the larger smart #5. The system in the #2 is, naturally, much more compact, but it incorporates the Contrabass algorithm—a key technology of the Sennheiser Signature Sound System.
Seven speakers for the compact cabin
Sennheiser is tailoring the new audio system specifically to the short and narrow passenger compartment of the smart #2. The two companies have not yet revealed how the seven speakers are arranged in the interior or the amplifier power used to drive them.
The Contrabass algorithm is designed to give the system unusually powerful bass reproduction for a vehicle of this size. Users can choose from three bass levels to tailor the sound to their musical preferences and listening environment.
In addition, three sound profiles—Studio, Live, and Vocal—are available. Sennheiser has not yet described the extent to which these profiles affect the spatial imaging and tonal balance. However, the names suggest different priorities: as unaltered music reproduction as possible, a concert-like atmosphere, and emphasized vocals.
From a 20-speaker system to a city car
We’ve already experienced firsthand just how high the bar is set within our own product family. For our exclusive report, we accompanied the Dolby Atmos mix of “Never Lose My Drive” by the band Searching for Home at Bauer Studios. Afterward, we listened to the finished mix together with the musicians in a smart #5 BRABUS.
Its Sennheiser Signature Sound System impressed in the STEREO-GUIDE listening test with a soundstage that extended well beyond the width of the vehicle, precise vocal reproduction, and powerful, controlled bass. It features 20 speakers, including a retractable center speaker, 1,190 watts of power, and the Concerto and Contrabass algorithms with AMBEO technology. In the smart #5 Premium and BRABUS models, it also supports Dolby Atmos with up to 7.1.4 channels.
The smart #2, on the other hand, will not feature a scaled-down version of this system, but rather a standalone solution designed for its significantly more compact interior. The announcement makes no mention of Dolby Atmos or Concerto with AMBEO technology, nor of a separate subwoofer. As things stand, the only commonalities are that the system was developed by Sennheiser and that it uses the Contrabass algorithm.
That doesn’t have to be a drawback for a city car. In a small cabin with only two seats, the sound field can be tailored much more precisely to the driver and front-seat passenger. Whether the seven speakers actually create an immersive atmosphere and a convincing stereo image, however, can only be assessed in a listening test.
Sennheiser only for select lines
The Sennheiser system is not standard equipment in every smart #2. The press release explicitly refers to “select trim levels,” but does not yet specify which ones. There is also no information available regarding a possible additional charge.
It also remains to be seen which audio sources and streaming services the smart #2’s infotainment system will support. In the smart #5, Dolby Atmos tracks can be played via the built-in Amazon Music app. Whether its smaller sibling will also feature a built-in music service or rely primarily on smartphone integration is something smart is expected to clarify by the time the vehicle is fully unveiled at the latest.
World premiere in October 2026
The smart #2 is intended to reinterpret the concept of the earlier fortwo as a purely electric city car. In addition to maximizing space efficiency, the focus is naturally on maneuverability and practicality for everyday use in an urban environment.
The electric two-seater will make its world debut on October 12, 2026, at the Paris Motor Show. Details regarding dimensions, powertrain, range, pricing, and market launch have not yet been announced. At that time, it should also become clear in which configurations the Sennheiser sound system will be available.
For more information, please visit Sennheiser Mobility
