Cute little things....

Undoubtedly, if you have traveled around or lived in Europe you have noticed these cute little cars driving around... They are tall but short and seem to be a parallel parkers dream, able to fit into all those just too small spaces you runinto when searching for parking around the city. They are called Smart cars and here is a picture of one that I snapped while in Paris a couple years ago.....

Well, the Smart car is coming to the US in 2008. There are 3 models, one is a convertible and you can reserve yours now for just $99 with a credit card. Starting this month, Smart will be touring the country, demoing the cars and providing test drives.

History:

Ironically, the concept of the Smart car developed in the early 90's through with a Joint Venture between Mercedes-Benz and Swatch, the makers of Swatch watches known for their wide array of colorful designs. Nicolas Hayek, the inventor of the Swatch watch brought his ideas for an “ultra-urban” car to Mercedes-Benz.

Price/Features:

The models start from $12,000 to $17,000 and the convertible the fortwo passion cabriolet comes with an upgraded soundsytem with mp3 player connection. Leather seats are also available for an additional cost. Other innovations like the selection of energy efficient and recyclable materials, the removable door panels (you can change the color of your smart as you desire) and a high driving position for great visibility in a small car combined to make smart a true revolution in driving style.

Safety:

So I have this personal mindblock that small cars are dangerous, there is just not enough metal around me for me to feel safe. Apparently, the Smart is stock full of safety features usually reserved for high end cars incuding a protective “tridion safety cell”, electronic stability program (esp), anti-lock braking system (abs), Electronic Brake-Force Distribution Control, Acceleration Skid Control, and four airbags.

Fuel Economy/Speed:

The vehicle is designed to achieve 40 plus mpg under normal driving conditions and current standards. The car can achieve top speeds of approximately 90mph.

Size:

The cars are:

• 8.8 feet long (you can usually fit two smart fortwos in an average parking space!)
• 5.1 feet tall (the smart still has as much headroom as most luxury vehicles!)
• 5.1 feet wide (two six foot, five inch plus people can sit side by side with plenty of shoulder room to spare!)

Also, the fortwo has 8 cubic feet of storage space – 12 feet if you load up to the roof line. This area can accomodate commonly transported items such as numerous bags of groceries, gym bags and other items , including golf clubs. For trips to the airport, the trunk can also accommodate many sizes of luggage. The front passenger seat also folds down creating additional space for other long items such as skis.

So, I don't know if the Smart is right for you but it will be an interesting and refreshing entry into the American market. It would be a cute, soot around the city car.....

For more info, check out www.smartusa.com