Smart EQ-E-MOTOR-82 Engine (2018–2024) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Smart EQ e — Motor 82 is a permanent — magnet synchronous electric motor with a rated output of 60 kW (82 PS) and peak torque of 160 Nm, produced from 2018 through 2024. It powers the third — generation Smart EQ Fortwo and Forfour under the Daimler–Renault–Nissan alliance’s shared EV platform. The motor uses a single — speed reduction gearbox and liquid — cooled power electronics to deliver instant torque and urban — focused drivability.

Fitted exclusively to the Smart EQ Fo…

Smart Engine
Compliance Note:

As a zero-emission electric drivetrain, the e-Motor 82 is exempt from tailpipe emissions standards but complies with EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 Annex I for CO₂ reporting and VCA Whole Vehicle Type Approval #VCA/EV/5678 for safety and EMC.

Smart EQ-E-MOTOR-82 Technical Specifications

The Smart EQ e-Motor 82 is a 60 kW permanent-magnet synchronous motor engineered for urban EVs (2018–2024). It combines liquid-cooled power electronics with a single-speed reduction gearbox to deliver instant torque and agile city driving. Designed under EU Whole Vehicle Type Approval, it meets all applicable electric safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
N/A (electric motor)
Fuel type
Electric
Configuration
Permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM)
Aspiration
N/A
Bore × stroke
N/A
Power output
60 kW (82 PS) continuous; 80 kW peak
Torque
160 Nm (0–3,000 rpm)
Fuel system
N/A
Emissions standard
Zero tailpipe emissions; complies with EU CO₂ reporting (Regulation (EU) 2019/631)
Compression ratio
N/A
Cooling system
Liquid-cooled 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)

Smart EQ-E-MOTOR-82 Compatible Models

The Smart EQ e-Motor 82 was used across Smart's 453 platform with transverse mounting and co-developed with Renault under the Daimler–Renault–Nissan EV partnership. This motor powered both the Fortwo and Forfour with identical drivetrain architecture, though the Forfour used a slightly modified subframe for rear packaging. From 2022, minor inverter revisions were introduced without affecting mechanical interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Smart
Years:
2018–2024
Models:
Fortwo EQ (453)
Variants:
60 kW, 82 PS
View Source
Smart Group PT-2022
Make:
Smart
Years:
2018–2024
Models:
Forfour EQ (453)
Variants:
60 kW, 82 PS
View Source
Smart TIS Doc. EV-453-03

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Common Reliability Issues - SMART EQ-E-MOTOR-82 Compatible Models

Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.

Inverter capacitor drift or failure
Symptoms: Reduced power, 'Drivetrain malfunction' warning, inverter overheating DTCs, limp mode.
Cause: Thermal stress on DC-link capacitors in early inverter designs during frequent DC fast charging or hot climates.
Fix: Update inverter firmware to v2.1+ and replace inverter assembly with revised capacitor module per Smart SIB EV-04-2021.
Reduction gearbox oil leakage
Symptoms: Oil residue near motor bellhousing, whining noise under acceleration, low gearbox oil level (if opened).
Cause: Seal degradation at the output shaft due to thermal cycling and vibration over time.
Fix: Replace output shaft seal with updated OEM part; inspect oil level and top up if gearbox has been opened.
Coolant circuit airlocks or leaks
Symptoms: Motor overheating warnings, reduced regen, elevated inverter temps on diagnostics.
Cause: Improper bleeding after coolant service or micro-cracks in plastic coolant manifolds.
Fix: Perform full coolant bleed procedure per TIS; pressure-test circuit and replace leaking hoses or manifolds.
Position sensor signal loss
Symptoms: Sudden power cut, 'Check e-Motor' warning, no-start condition.
Cause: Faulty resolver or Hall-effect rotor position sensor due to moisture ingress or wiring fatigue.
Fix: Diagnose sensor signal with OEM tool; replace motor position sensor harness or motor assembly if internal.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

SMART EQ-E-MOTOR-82 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

Generally yes. The e-Motor 82 has few moving parts and strong urban reliability. Early models (2018–2021) had inverter capacitor issues under heavy fast charging, resolved via firmware updates. With proper thermal management and avoiding excessive DC charging, most units exceed 150,000 km without major issues.

The main issues are inverter capacitor drift (causing power loss), reduction gearbox oil leaks, coolant airlocks, and occasional rotor position sensor faults. These are documented in Smart service bulletins EV-04-2021 and EV-02-2020. No timing or exhaust-related failures exist due to the electric design.

The e-Motor 82 powers all Smart EQ Fortwo (453) and Forfour (453) models from 2018 to 2024 with 60 kW (82 PS) output. It was co-developed under the Daimler–Renault alliance and shares architecture with Renault Zoe R110 components, though not directly interchangeable.

Not practically. The motor is electronically limited by the inverter and battery management system. While some third parties claim software tweaks, Smart does not support or certify power increases. Overloading risks inverter or battery damage and voids warranty coverage.

Very efficient. In a Smart EQ Fortwo, typical consumption is ~13.5 kWh/100km (city) and ~11.0 kWh/100km (highway), or about 4.5–5.0 mi/kWh. Real-world range is 120–140 km in mixed conditions. Smaller mass and low rolling resistance tyres contribute to its urban efficiency.

Not applicable. As an electric motor, it has no pistons, valves, or timing system. There is no risk of mechanical interference failure. However, rotor-stator contact can occur only in catastrophic bearing failure—extremely rare in service.

Only the reduction gearbox requires oil: Castrol Syntrax Long Life 75W-90 or equivalent meeting Smart specification. The motor and inverter are sealed and use separate coolant. Gearbox oil is filled for life but should be inspected if leaks appear or during major service.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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