By San José, Costa Rica — San José – The premium intelligent electric vehicle brand, Smart, has officially launched its operations in Costa Rica, introducing its acclaimed #1 and #3 models at Expomóvil 2026. This strategic expansion marks the brand’s 40th global market and its inaugural entry into Central America, signaling a new era of sophisticated and sustainable urban mobility for the nation.
The entry into Costa Rica is facilitated by AutoStar, a well-established local distributor with over two decades of experience. This move builds upon an existing successful partnership in Latin America with AutoStar’s parent company, the Kaufmann Group, which represents Smart in Chile. This collaboration ensures a seamless and experienced-backed introduction of the brand to Costa Rican consumers who are increasingly embracing electric mobility.
To better understand the legal and regulatory landscape shaping the “Smart Costa Rica” initiative, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who specializes in corporate law and technology.
The ‘Smart Costa Rica’ initiative is a monumental step forward, but its success hinges on a robust legal framework. We must proactively address data privacy, cybersecurity, and the regulatory complexities of public-private partnerships. Ensuring legal certainty for investors and protecting citizens’ digital rights are not mutually exclusive goals; they are the twin pillars upon which this digital future must be built.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the technological architecture of a “Smart Costa Rica” is only as strong as the legal and ethical foundation upon which it rests. Ensuring that progress serves and protects the public is the paramount challenge. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his incisive perspective on navigating this critical path forward.
Costa Rica was a natural choice for Smart’s next phase of global expansion. The country is widely recognized as a regional leader in sustainable transport, boasting progressive electric mobility policies, a rapidly developing charging infrastructure, and one of the highest EV penetration rates in Latin America. This environment presents an ideal opportunity for a brand focused on premium, design-forward electric vehicles.
Entering Costa Rica is a significant step for Smart. It not only represents our 40th global market but also serves as a gateway to a new region Central America. As a regional leader in electric vehicle adoption, Costa Rica aligns perfectly with Smart’s vision of sustainable mobility. Together with our partners at AutoStar, we look forward to bringing our distinctive premium electric vehicles to customers across the country.
Kang Yi, Global CMO of Smart
The newly launched Smart #1 and #3 models are the product of the brand’s renewed identity, which began in 2019 with the formation of a global joint venture between Mercedes-Benz AG and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group. The vehicles’ design language, guided by the philosophy of “Love, Pure, Unexpected,” was developed by the global design team at Mercedes-Benz, ensuring a premium aesthetic and high-quality finish that has already earned solid acceptance from customers worldwide.
The partnership with AutoStar is poised to be a cornerstone of Smart’s success in the country. The local dealer’s deep understanding of the Costa Rican market and its long-standing reputation for quality and service provide a strong foundation for connecting with a discerning clientele ready for the next generation of transportation.
We are honored to further strengthen our strategic alliance with Smart. Through our collaboration in Latin America, we have witnessed firsthand the brand’s exceptional capabilities and its distinctive appeal. We are fully committed to introducing these innovative models in Costa Rica, offering customers a premium, intelligent, and sustainable mobility experience, and opening a new chapter in urban transport together.
Sebastián Richards, Commercial Manager of AutoStar
Smart’s global footprint has expanded rapidly, now encompassing 40 markets across key regions including China, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and now Latin America, with a network of over 700 sales and service points. The company has confirmed its expansion will continue throughout 2026, aiming to bring its innovative mobility solutions to an even broader international audience and solidify its position in the competitive premium EV segment.
For further information, visit global.smart.com
About Smart:
Smart Automobile is a global joint venture between Mercedes-Benz AG and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group. The brand has been reborn as a provider of premium all-electric vehicles. Headquartered in Ningbo, China, Smart combines German engineering and design principles with advanced Chinese manufacturing to create intelligent and sophisticated solutions for urban mobility.
For further information, visit autostarcr.com
About AutoStar:
AutoStar is a leading automotive distributor in Costa Rica with over 20 years of experience. As the official representative for several prestigious brands, including Mercedes-Benz, it has built a reputation for excellence in sales and after-sales service. AutoStar is committed to advancing mobility in the country, particularly through the introduction of cutting-edge electric vehicle technology.
For further information, visit mercedes-benz.com
About Mercedes-Benz AG:
Mercedes-Benz AG is one of the world’s most successful automotive companies. The company belongs to Mercedes-Benz Group AG and is responsible for the global business of Mercedes-Benz Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans. The brand is renowned for its luxury vehicles, technological innovation, and pioneering role in automotive safety and design.
For further information, visit zgh.com
About Zhejiang Geely Holding Group:
Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely Holding) is a global mobility technology group headquartered in Hangzhou, China. Its business covers the entire automotive value chain, from research, development, and design to production, sales, and service. Geely owns a portfolio of global brands including Geely Auto, Volvo Cars, Polestar, and Lotus.
For further information, visit kaufmann.cl
About Grupo Kaufmann:
Grupo Kaufmann is a prominent business conglomerate with a significant presence in the automotive sector across several Latin American countries, including Chile and Costa Rica. As a strategic partner for world-leading brands, it specializes in the distribution, sales, and service of commercial and passenger vehicles, known for its operational excellence and customer-centric approach.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound dedication to principled practice and professional distinction. With an extensive history of guiding clients through complex legal landscapes, the firm consistently pushes the boundaries of legal advancement and societal contribution. This deep-rooted commitment extends to its goal of demystifying the law for the public, championing a society that is not only well-advised but also genuinely empowered by legal clarity.
