Daimler's Smart division was never the success it had hoped it'd be in North America when it first arrived there in 2008. In Europe, however, the urban city car brand has done much better over the past two decades since its inception. But even with its unique body styles, Smart could use a styling jolt every now and then to keep things interesting. Hence the Forease Concept, an all-electric topless city car that's making its world debut at the 2018 Paris Motor Show.

Basically, if you were already a fan of the brand, you'll dig this new concept. If not, then Smart hopes to win you over. Smart says the exterior styling was inspired by two previous concepts, the 2001 Crossblade and 2011 Forspeed.

You can tell it's a concept vehicle because it doesn't even have a top or side windows. The only weather protection of sorts it provides passengers is a narrow wind deflector located across the cockpit. "The Smart Forease is proof that Smart thinks unconventionally. Its design is reduced and pure," says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer, Daimler AG.

"The Smart Forease is a statement of urbanity and individual style. It has the coolness of the metropolis and demonstrates a truly free spirit."

Among some of the styling traits we think are noteworthy include the door handles, which are recessed in the doors, and green trim inside and out to highlight its "green" credentials.

Above all, Smart has wisely decided to become an all-electric brand and the new Forease concept is a preview of that electric future. It may have taken a couple of decades, but Smart may have finally found its raison d'etre by combining its small size with battery-powered motors to create the ideal city cars.

Chances are, the next generation of Smart cars will be inspired by the Forease concept you see here, though an actual top and windows will be required.