Core Viewpoint - Smart is struggling in the Chinese market despite leveraging Mercedes-Benz design and Geely technology, leading to a significant reduction in sales targets for 2023 [2][5][20] Group 1: Sales Performance - Smart has faced disappointing sales for its models, particularly the EQ3 and EQ5, prompting a downward revision of its sales target by over 40% mid-year [2][5] - The sales figures for Smart's electric vehicles show a stark contrast, with the smallest model, EQ1, selling 2,071 units in July, while the EQ3 and EQ5 sold only 380 and 263 units respectively [3][5] - The EQ5, launched as a mid-size SUV, has only reached a peak monthly sales of 1,091 units since its release, with most months seeing sales between 200 and 300 units [4] Group 2: Product Strategy - Smart is shifting its strategy by introducing a plug-in hybrid version of the EQ5, which is seen as a necessary corrective measure due to challenges faced by its pure electric strategy [3][9] - The design of the EQ5 targets young urban consumers seeking a fun and stylish vehicle, but it has not resonated with the intended audience, leading to a mismatch in market expectations [10][12] - The upcoming EQ6 is expected to be the model with the highest "Mercedes" influence, indicating a strategic pivot to regain market competitiveness [19][20] Group 3: Market Positioning - Smart's transition from a compact car brand to a player in the mainstream passenger vehicle market has been met with challenges, particularly in adapting to the fast-paced Chinese EV market [3][14] - The brand's positioning as a high-end player in the EV market is complicated by the competitive landscape, where rivals are rapidly iterating their products [20] - Smart's reliance on a complex cross-border collaboration model has hindered its ability to respond quickly to market changes, impacting its overall agility [14][20] Group 4: Brand and Marketing Efforts - Smart is undertaking brand-building initiatives, including the introduction of BRABUS versions of its vehicles to elevate brand perception, although this is seen as a short-term fix rather than a comprehensive solution [15][17] - The addition of the Mercedes star logo on the Smart vehicles sold in China is part of a strategy to enhance brand recognition in the local market [17]