WITH an eye on the future smart gave its latest concept car an impressive debut at the Paris Motor Show.

The cleverly named forstars is a tongue-in-cheek reference to the car's glass roof above the two passengers giving occupants a clear view of the starry heavens above.

And this two-seater sports utility coupe even hints at a witty idea of integrating a video projector into the front bonnet. Strange but true!

Presenting the car at the show, head of smart Dr Annette Winkler, said: "I'm very proud to present this unique beautiful smart which is full of creativity. It is a glimpse into the future of smart."

And talking about the real show-time feature on the car, she added: "It has a built in, drive-in cinema - a cinema to go.

"You can gather with friends and project the movie onto a house wall - watch it together having a party, having fun in the city."

Featuring an Alubeam rouge coloured paintwork, the all-electric model is immediately recognisable as a smart - it seems to actually greet the viewer with a saucy smile on its face.

The forstars shares similar body features with the smart for-us model which was shown for the first time at the Detroit Motor Show earlier this year.

There is the large brand emblem, a pronounced three-dimensional front end and whereas rally cars have an air scoop, the forstars features a video projector.

The interior is stylish, uncomplicated and functional with a sophisticated use of leather and graphite combining nicely.

But wait for it, the rearview mirror - a standard feature on normal cars - is replaced with a smartphone which enables the driver to see what's going on behind them with the help of an integrated video camera.

The performance should be agile thanks to the 60kW electric motor and there is a promise of powerful, lag-free acceleration with a top speed of almost 81mph.

Although the forstars may be a hint of things to come, it clearly highlights the company's forward-thinking approach to functionality and style.

Dr Winkler concluded: "For the time being it might remain an idea for the future, but already today the electric drive makes features possible that would never have been feasible in a conventional car.

"For example, the stationary heating and air-conditioning, which can be activated or even pre-programmed via mobile phone from anywhere in the world. That's a unique feature in this car segment.

"And the smart cars are the least expensive electric cars in Europe too."

There may be a humorous side to the forstars, but the success of the company speaks for itself and the long-term projections are certainly full of promise.