smart Car at ASU
Isn't it cute? Holycow I want one! The
smart fortwo car is coming to the USA in 2008. This model is known as the smart fortwo "passion". According to the manufacturer, smart USA, the car will list at about $14,000. That is almost half the price of a
Toyota Prius and better gas mileage too! Smart is a member of the Mercedes Car Group but from what I read on their web site, the car may not be sold at Mercedes dealerships. It will be interesting to see which USA car dealers will carry it.
This particular passion is owned by SquarCare and was parked outside our offices yesterday afternoon as part of the Green Summit 2007 at Arizona State University±. The driver said that he is getting about 50 miles per gallon (mpg) from the 3-cylinder engine. He said Penske in Tempe will be selling the vehicles. They are taking preorders now and there are already 400 names on their waiting list (which is $99 to join). I was unable to confirm that. However, I did see a TV commercial for Smart Car Auto Sales in Mesa, AZ.
Check out this photo. The smart fortwo passion appears to need just half of a conventional parking space. What is more, I am guessing that it is possible to park it perpendicular in curbside parking. That opens up a whole new batch of eligible parking spots in crowded neighborhoods. Seriously, I think ASU should offer free parking to anyone driving one of these puppies. Ya, I like that idea 
From the smart USA web site:
"The value packed, sporty and well-equipped passion includes all the features described on the pure, plus much more. Additional standard equipment includes a panorama roof, alloy wheels, air conditioning with climate control, 3-spoke leather sports steering wheel with shift paddles, power windows, electric and heated side mirrors, and AM/FM radio with CD player.
Complete product definition will be available as we get closer to the market launch of this exciting vehicle."
Check out all the accessories, options and colors.
And here are some more smart Car links:
± To learn more about the 2007 Green Summit at Arizona State University read this article in the ASU State Press. We walked through the tent yesterday. There were some really interesting innovations. I particularly liked the environmentally friendly cleaning agents and the solar powered street signs.