Discovering Morocco's High Atlas with the Smart #5
Embarking on a journey from Casablanca to the majestic High Atlas mountains, the Smart #5 electric vehicle offers a glimpse into a Morocco that elegantly balances modern automotive production with the challenges posed by a sparse charging infrastructure. As the evening sun paints the High Atlas in shades of red, the scent of a traditional Tajine wafts from a nearby kitchen while a glass of sweet mint tea is served, creating an idyllic atmosphere at the Ranch Camp nestled in the hinterlands of Marrakech. The contrast of the Smart #5, a vehicle that seems out of place amid the rustic charm of this setting, highlights the unique experience of electric mobility in Morocco. The arrival of the Smart brand, once synonymous with compact city cars, may not yet be well-known even in urban Casablanca, where the hustle and bustle of life unfolds against a backdrop of luxury vehicles like the Mercedes GLE, BMW X5, and Range Rover. Despite being the richest and most cosmopolitan city in Morocco, electric cars remain a rarity, and the Smart #5 has only recently been introduced to the North African market.
The Journey Through Marrakech and Beyond
The drive to Marrakech presents a significantly improved electric experience, with well-maintained highways and charging stations at rest areas. With only a few thousand electric vehicles on the road, waiting at charging stations is not a concern, even if the charging capabilities do not meet the Smart's impressive 400 kW capacity. As one ventures beyond Marrakech, the surroundings transform dramatically; palm groves dot the landscape, and traditional mud-brick Kasbahs blend seamlessly with the rocky terrain. The vibrant local markets bustle with activity, where vendors enthusiastically promote their wares, while the Smart remains a silent observer, unnoticed amidst the daily routines of life. However, in the small town of Tahanaout, two elderly men scrutinize the road, recognizing the sound of familiar vehicles long before they appear, only to be taken aback by the quiet arrival of the Smart, which glides by without a sound.
As the journey continues past Asni, the road conditions deteriorate, transforming from asphalt to a challenging gravel path riddled with potholes and loose stones. Here, the Smart #5 truly shines, equipped with dual motors that deliver a combined power output of 588 horsepower and 643 Nm of torque, allowing it to tackle the rugged terrain with ease. The vehicle's immediate response to acceleration and its remarkable traction on rough surfaces distinguish it from traditional diesel vehicles that struggle in such conditions. However, for those seeking true off-road adventures, a Land Cruiser may still be the more suitable choice.
The Smart #5's performance peaks when the road returns to asphalt, where it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, making it a lively competitor on mountain roads. Yet, caution is warranted; the steep inclines can quickly deplete the vehicle's range. With a rated capacity of 94 kWh allowing for 540 kilometers of travel, finding charging stations becomes paramount, especially as the available options dwindle along the route. A robust CEE socket is considered a luxury in these regions, and securing permission to use one can be a negotiation with local hosts.
Finally, as the return trip to the coast unfolds, it becomes evident that Morocco is poised for a transformative leap in electric mobility. With ambitions that extend beyond being merely a manufacturing hub for European automakers, Morocco is rich in resources for battery production, including phosphates, sunlight, and wind energy. In Kenitra, the Chinese company Gotion is establishing a battery factory aimed at producing up to 100 gigawatt-hours. Although the number of newly registered electric vehicles is on the rise, with an anticipated increase to 2,500 charging points by the end of the year, the current infrastructure still has a long way to go.
After three days and approximately 2,000 kilometers of exploration, the Smart finds itself back in Casablanca, charging once more alongside a bustling shopping center. As the local saying goes, the caravan moves on, and those behind should keep a watchful eye, for the next adventure awaits.
As reported by firmenauto.de.
