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Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Smart shows production version of winged ForJeremy [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/smart-shows-production-version-of-winged-forjeremy-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/smart-shows-production-version-of-winged-forjeremy-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/smart-shows-production-version-of-winged-forjeremy-w-video/#commentsFiled under: Hatchback, Smart, Specialty, Shanghai Motor Show, Design/Style, Electric

The SmartForJeremy is a reality, a limited run of the haute couture Smart Fortwo being announced at the Shanghai Motor Show. It has been toned down for production since we first saw it at last year's LA Auto Show but its signature flourish, the wings, remain. Instead of replacing the brake lights, though, a smaller set of red-accented wings sit above them. The white interior remains, though the KITT-style wheel has been swapped for a traditional unit.

A collaboration between Mercedes-Benz Cars Advanced Design Studios and Jeremy Scott, it will come in white with white wheels and alubeam accents outside and in. Production starts this month and there will be three powertrain options all in the coupe bodystyle: a standard 55kW Smart ForTwo Electric Drive for 34,800 euro ($45,416 US), a more powerful 60kW Brabus Electric Drive for 40,600 euro ($52,985 US) or a 102-horsepower gasoline-engined Brabus for 33,333 euro ($43,501 US).

It's not for everyone, but if you want to live like it's Fashion Week every week look no further. The press release and video below can tell you more about it.

Continue reading Smart shows production version of winged ForJeremy [w/video]

Smart shows production version of winged ForJeremy [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20546254 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/smart-forjeremy-production_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/smart-forjeremy-production.jpg <![CDATA[Meet the Smart Fortwo that should be competing in the 2013 Dakar Rally [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-smart-fortwo-that-should-be-competing-in-the-2013-dakar/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-smart-fortwo-that-should-be-competing-in-the-2013-dakar/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/meet-the-smart-fortwo-that-should-be-competing-in-the-2013-dakar/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Coupe, Smart, South America, Off-Road

When it comes to specialty applications of the Smart Fortwo, "off-road motorsports" may seem about as likely as "amphibious assault vehicle." Yet a team has come up with just that (the former, not the latter), creating a rally-ready runabout dubbed the Smart Dakar.

The team used a Fortwo to create a "Smart Buggy 4x4." The creator's website claims that the vehicle is in compliance with FIA regulations, and weighs only 750 kilograms (1,653 pounds). As the name suggests, the intent of this vehicle is to compete in the Dakar Rally, and it looks the part.

It may be the most hard-nosed Smart that you'll ever find, but it has an uphill battle to make it to competition. The race team, headed by Jose Luis "JL" Alvarez, does not have the funds to field a full assortment of vehicles, including two Smarts and a Honda CRF-450, and now all plans have been canceled for this year's Dakar Rally.

JL even appealed to his fans via a YouTube video with the hopes of crowd-funding the project, though it appears that attempt has failed. At any rate, the 2013 Dakar Rally starts January 5 in Lima, Peru, and ends January 20 in Santiago, Chile, and it appears that this team, with its unique ride, will not be attending.

Continue reading Meet the Smart Fortwo that should be competing in the 2013 Dakar Rally [w/video]

Meet the Smart Fortwo that should be competing in the 2013 Dakar Rally [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20412817 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/smart-dakar-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/smart-dakar-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Chevrolet Spark gets EPA rating of 32/38 MPG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/2013-chevrolet-spark-gets-epa-rating-of-32-38-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/2013-chevrolet-spark-gets-epa-rating-of-32-38-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/2013-chevrolet-spark-gets-epa-rating-of-32-38-mpg/#commentsFiled under: Budget, Hatchback, Chevrolet

2013 Chevy Spark

Chevrolet can't be too happy with the EPA numbers for its tiny Spark. Equipped with the 1.2-liter engine and five-speed manual, the smallest Chevy in history gets 32 miles per gallon in the city, 38 on the highway for a combined EPA number of 34 mpg. Not bad, but not what we and, presumably, Chevy, were hoping for. Add the optional automatic transmission, and the numbers drop to 28 city, 37 highway and a combined number of 32 mpg.

When we first saw the Spark at the Geneva show in 2009, the Spark was expected to get a combined number of 47 mpg, though that may have been forecasting a European rating.

With its small size and small, 1.2 liter, 85 hp engine, it's easy to think of the Spark as super efficient. The similarly-sized Smart ForTwo gets a combined EPA number of 36 mpg, while the larger Hyundai Accent gets 34 as well.

In fact, the Spark's larger stablemates, the Cruze Eco and Sonic, can do almost as well if properly equipped. Both cars gets a combined 33 mpg with the turbocharged 1.4 liter and manual six-speed transmission. The Sonic even breaks the 40-mpg barrier in highway driving and the Cruze Eco gets an even better 42.

The moral of this story? Looks like a sixth gear makes a huge difference in fuel economy. And if you don't mind paying a little more, you can get a larger Chevy with better EPA numbers.

2013 Chevrolet Spark gets EPA rating of 32/38 MPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevrolet sparkchevy+sparkchevysparkcruzeEPAfuel economyHyundai AccentMPGSmart FortwosparkTue, 24 Jul 2012 16:28:00 EST

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20284990 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-chevrolet-spark-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-chevrolet-spark-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Smart USA doesn't take crap from anyone]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/smart-usa-doesnt-take-crap-from-anyone/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/smart-usa-doesnt-take-crap-from-anyone/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/smart-usa-doesnt-take-crap-from-anyone/#commentsFiled under: Convertible, Coupe, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Smart, Humor

Smart Twitter Response

The minds at Smart USA took to Twitter to make a point about the manufacturer's tridion safety cell recently. Clayton Hove, who runs a snarky blog about advertising, joked that he "Saw a bird had crapped on a Smart Car. Totaled it," leaving the door wide open for Smart to work up a response. And respond the automaker did.

Smart USA fired off a tweet of its own, complete with an infographic (click above to enlarge) depicting exactly how much bird excrement it would take to damage the vehicle's safety cell. According to Smart, the structure can withstand up to 9,000 pounds of pressure, which equates to around 4.5 million pigeon droppings.

Smart didn't stop at just doing the math. The company worked up a handy infographic to break down exactly how many turkey or emu droppings would do the same damage. Turns out those numbers are 360,000 and 45,000, respectively. Hilarious. Check out Smart Twitter account to see the original exchange.

Smart USA doesn't take crap from anyone originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jun 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bird crapbird droppingspigeonsmartsmart bird crap tweetsmart fortwosmart tweettweettwitterThu, 21 Jun 2012 15:30:00 EST

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20263338 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/smart-twitter-response-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/smart-twitter-response-628.jpg <![CDATA[Smart unveiling Brabus-edition Fortwo EV, e-bike in Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/smart-unveiling-brabus-edition-fortwo-ev-e-bike-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/smart-unveiling-brabus-edition-fortwo-ev-e-bike-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/smart-unveiling-brabus-edition-fortwo-ev-e-bike-in-geneva/#commentsFiled under: Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Hatchback, Smart, Design/Style, Electric

Smart Brabus Electric ForTwo front three-quarter view

Daimler's Smart minicar division will unveil both a battery-electric version of the Smart Brabus special-edition line and a Smart Brabus electric bike at the Geneva Motor Show this year.

The Smart Brabus electric drive Fortwo will be available in 12 countries by the end of the year. Parent company Daimler notes the model will include touches such as 17-inch alloy wheels, an "electric green" interior. The diminutive runabout will deliver about 80 horsepower, though the German automaker hasn't specified a single-charge range.

Meanwhile, Smart's Brabus ebike will have an electric motor that will deliver 500 watts of power, enough for a top speed of 25 miles per hour. It will also be available at Smart dealers by the end of the year. Smart isn't disclosing pricing on either the Brabus ForTwo EV or the new ebike but you can see both in our gallery.

Last month, Smart said it would start selling a special-edition version called the Sharpred in Europe starting this May. Smart will offer the red and black model in 71- and 84-horsepower versions in both hardtop and convertible configurations, and will make 1,800 Sharpreds.

Daimler last year sold about 102,000 Smart vehicles globally in 2011. While that number marked a 4.6 percent increase over 2010, Smart vehicles accounted for just 7.5 percent of all Daimler cars sold in 2011. Check out the complete press release after the break.

Continue reading Smart unveiling Brabus-edition Fortwo EV, e-bike in Geneva

Smart unveiling Brabus-edition Fortwo EV, e-bike in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 smart fortwo electric drivebikebrabusdaimlerebikeelectric bikeelectric vehiclefortwogenevageneva motor showsmartsmart fortwoMon, 05 Mar 2012 08:59:00 EST

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20184439 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/smart-brabus-electric-fortwo-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/smart-brabus-electric-fortwo-628.jpg <![CDATA[Rinspeed Dock+Go concept returns with another tag-along ahead of Geneva debut [w/videos]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/rinspeed-dock-go-concept-returns-with-another-tag-along-ahead-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/rinspeed-dock-go-concept-returns-with-another-tag-along-ahead-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/23/rinspeed-dock-go-concept-returns-with-another-tag-along-ahead-of/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Hybrid, Geneva Motor Show, Etc., Technology, Videos, Hatchback, Smart

Last year, Rinspeed introduced its Dock+Go concept at the Geneva Motor Show, a Smart ForTwo Electric Drive with a wagon attachment whose wheels could recharge the battery. The Swiss tuner thought the idea so good that this year, instead of conjuring something just as wacky, they went even wackier: the new Dock+Go holds steady on the "go" but adds an extra dock in the form of what Rinspeed calls a wheeled backpack.

The modular system allows for the two attachments to be used at once, creating a four-axle ForTwo. The last backpack, though, is a "Variohybrid" that drives the wheels of the intermediary backpack and so charges the batteries it contains. The point is to provide the space and the range you need, but only when you need it.

Inside, it's as if the Smart had absorbed every vehicle used by every one of The Avengers. There are space-age threads and surfaces, Swiss clocks, electroluminescent lighting, flatscreen technology and a Takata-Petri steering wheel. And that isn't even the appetizer. You can peep it from numerous angles in the well stocked gallery, or click through to the jump for five videos and a press release that is three times the length of the car.

Continue reading Rinspeed Dock+Go concept returns with another tag-along ahead of Geneva debut [w/videos]

Rinspeed Dock+Go concept returns with another tag-along ahead of Geneva debut [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 smart fortwo electric drivedock+gofortwofrank rinderknechtgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showrinspeedrinspeed dock+gosmart fortwovariohybridThu, 23 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/23/rinspeed-dock-go-concept-returns-with-another-tag-along-ahead-of/20177430/article-detail.xml

20177430 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/rinspeeddockgo2012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/rinspeeddockgo2012.jpg <![CDATA[Squint Really Hard: Smart ForTwo gets modest update]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/squint-really-hard-smart-fortwo-gets-modest-update/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/squint-really-hard-smart-fortwo-gets-modest-update/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/squint-really-hard-smart-fortwo-gets-modest-update/#commentsFiled under: Budget, Europe, Hatchback, Smart, Design/Style

Smart has put the ForTwo under the knife in an attempt to give the maligned A-segment vehicle a few more years of life. The ForTwo now wears a smarter-looking revised fascia with a bolder Smart emblem, more expansive grille and redesigned lower valance. The front clip is paired with more defined rockers and a similarly restyled rear valance. Throw in a few more wheel options and the package helps freshen the vehicle quite a bit. Unfortunately, engineers left the engine bay alone. That means buyers will still be met with the same abysmal engine lineup and automated manual transmission found in the current vehicle.

Smart plans to continue to offer five option packages, including Brabus and Brabus Xclusive. The refreshed ForTwo will land in dealers in the UK in April, with U.S. sales commencing shortly thereafter as a 2013 model.

Word has it the next-generation ForTwo won't see the light of day for another two years at least. Will the 2013 nip/tuck draw enough buyers into show rooms to keep Smart afloat until then? We imagine it won't hurt, but the company is facing increased competition from big players like Scion and Chevrolet, and its sales numbers are terrible to begin with. Vehicles like the the more efficient iQ and the Spark probably won't help the ForTwo's chances. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Squint Really Hard: Smart ForTwo gets modest update

Squint Really Hard: Smart ForTwo gets modest update originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 smart fortwodaimlerfortwosmartsmart carsmart fortwosmart fortwo faceliftWed, 01 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST

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20162113 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/smart-fortwo-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/smart-fortwo-628.jpg <![CDATA[Rinspeed expands capacity with Smart ForTwo-based Dock+Go concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/07/rinspeed-expands-capacity-with-smart-fortwo-based-dock-go-concep/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/07/rinspeed-expands-capacity-with-smart-fortwo-based-dock-go-concep/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/07/rinspeed-expands-capacity-with-smart-fortwo-based-dock-go-concep/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Technology, Hatchback, Electric

Rinspeed Dock+Go

Carmakers are constantly coming up with new innovations to advance the automobile. But, let's face it: most of them are rather evolutionary, rather than revolutionary. That's why, every once in a while, the auto industry needs some creative out-of-the-box thinking. And that's where Frank M. Rinderknecht comes in.

The brain behind Rinspeed never fails to raise some eyebrows with his innovative twists on the automobile which he invariably unveils at the annual Geneva Motor Show. And here we have this year's debut.

Called the Dock+Go mobility concept, the Rinspeed design provides an interesting approach to a modern problem: While city cars (like the Smart ForTwo upon which this concept is based) may be a practical solution for those living in crowded cities, they don't offer the kind of capacity needed for longer trips. Rinspeed's solution isn't to make the city car bigger, but to make it expandable with a third set of wheels and an extended cargo box.

The resulting appendage not only gives drivers some extra space for hauling what they've got, it also offers extra battery capacity. Plus, the rear wheels recharge the battery pack, giving the industry more to think about when it comes to extending the range - and space - of electric vehicles.

Continue reading Rinspeed expands capacity with Smart ForTwo-based Dock+Go concept

Rinspeed expands capacity with Smart ForTwo-based Dock+Go concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20122552 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/rinspeed-dockgo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/rinspeed-dockgo.jpg <![CDATA[Smart Fortwo Brabus by WeSC gets two-tone gold treatment and its own headphones]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/smart-fortwo-brabus-by-wesc-gets-two-tone-gold-treatment-and-its/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/smart-fortwo-brabus-by-wesc-gets-two-tone-gold-treatment-and-its/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/smart-fortwo-brabus-by-wesc-gets-two-tone-gold-treatment-and-its/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Coupe, Smart, Specialty, Design/Style

Smart Brabus tailor made by WeSC

Smart has teamed with Swedish clothing firm WeSC to create the special edition Smart Brabus tailor (yes, another one), and it's scheduled to be revealed at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. It's powered by a 101-horsepower turbocharged gasoline engine and features a matte and high-gloss golden exterior from Brabus. The tailor-made Fortwo gets jet black alloys and a body kit.

Inside, the Smart Brabus by WeSC gets standard air conditioning, leather seats and a leather steering wheel. WeSC has even designed special headphones that give a "nod to the car's look, as can be seen in the perforated black ear pads and high-gloss golden highlights," according to Smart.

The special edition Fortwo and WeSC-designed headphones will be available starting in spring of 2012, but Brabus is taking advanced orders for the car and its questionable aesthetics right about... now, though we don't have any delusions that it will be available in the States.

Continue reading Smart Fortwo Brabus by WeSC gets two-tone gold treatment and its own headphones

Smart Fortwo Brabus by WeSC gets two-tone gold treatment and its own headphones originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20039066 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/smart-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/smart-1.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive hits 75 mph, whizzes to 60 in 13 seconds]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/2012-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-hits-75-mph-whizzes-to-60-in-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/2012-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-hits-75-mph-whizzes-to-60-in-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/2012-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-hits-75-mph-whizzes-to-60-in-1/#commentsFiled under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Europe, Hatchback, Smart, Electric

The third-generation, 2012 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive ditches its 16.5-kWh Tesla-engineered battery pack in favor of a 17.6-kWh unit manufactured by Deutsche ACCUmotive and, in the process, gains a much needed boost in acceleration, top speed and a slight increase in range.

Scheduled to launch next spring, the 2012 Fortwo Electric Drive features an EM-motive 55-kW (74-horsepower) electric motor, a massive increase from the 30-kW (40-hp) unit found in the 2011 Fortwo electric. The boost in power means that the 2012 Fortwo Electric Drive can hit a highway-capable top speed of 74.6 miles per hour and scoot from 0 to 60 mph in less than 13 seconds. Though still lethargic, that 13-second time is a vast improvement over the estimated 23.4 seconds required for the 2011 Fortwo electric to wheeze its way to 60 mph. The third-gen 2012 dashes from 0 to 37 mph in five seconds flat, a useful 1.5-second improvement over the outgoing model.

The Deutsche ACCUmotive lithium-ion battery pack should enable the 2012 Fortwo Electric Drive to travel an estimated 86 miles between charges, up slightly from the 83-mile range of the outgoing electric two-seater. Smart says an empty-to-full charge takes approximately eight hours and that a quick-charge option exists for the third-gen electric.

In terms of styling, the 2012 Fortwo features an enlarged grille opening, stylish LED daytime running lights, wider door sills and some minor modifications to the rear.

Smart says production of the 2012 Fortwo Electric Drive will eventually hit a "five-figure number" and that the electric two-seater will be sold in at least 30 countries across the globe. Smart has yet to release pricing for its third-gen electric. Look for us to have more details on the Fortwo Electric Drive when it hits the stage during next month's Frankfurt Motor Show. Check out our high-res image gallery and the official press release after the jump.

Continue reading 2012 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive hits 75 mph, whizzes to 60 in 13 seconds

2012 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive hits 75 mph, whizzes to 60 in 13 seconds originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurt2012 smart fortwo2012 smart fortwo electric drivefortwofortwo edfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showgreensmartsmart fortwosmart fortwo edsmart fortwo electric driveTue, 16 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST

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20018823 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/smart-fortwo-2-1313499278_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/smart-fortwo-2-1313499278.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes will try to resuscitate Smart with new execs, ads, incentives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/mercedes-will-try-to-resuscitate-smart-with-new-execs-ads-ince/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/mercedes-will-try-to-resuscitate-smart-with-new-execs-ads-ince/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/mercedes-will-try-to-resuscitate-smart-with-new-execs-ads-ince/#commentsFiled under: Car Buying, Mercedes-Benz, Smart

2009 Smart Fortwo

2009 Smart ForTwo - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Smart brand has been in flux for the last few years. Sales have fallen off a cliff from the days when the Penske Group moved nearly 25,000 units in 2008. In 2010, just 5,927 Smart ForTwos went home with new owners. Mercedes-Benz had enough of watching sales submarine, and plucked back distribution rights, sales and marketing of the brand. Now, the German automaker is looking to inject new life into Smart.

How does Mercedes hope to revive the ailing subcompact brand? For starters, Smart has a new executive team in place, which forms a new group called Daimler Vehicle Innovations USA. This group reports directly to Mercedes-Benz USA sales leader Michael Slagter. The newly formed Smart team is lead by Tracey Matura, who was plucked from her role as general manager of MB's strategic retail development group.

Matura will work with Mercedes-Benz dealers to incorporate Smart vehicles into their showrooms. In the past, it was required of a Smart dealer to utilize a separate, or even standalone, showroom space. Now, Matura will simply ask for a corner of an existing Benz showroom, and, given the size of a Smart ForTwo, the corner doesn't need to be very big.

Right now, 75 Mercedes dealerships also sell Smart products, and Matura aims to get that number up to 100 by year's end. Read all about the new Smart plan after the break.

Continue reading Mercedes will try to resuscitate Smart with new execs, ads, incentives

Mercedes will try to resuscitate Smart with new execs, ads, incentives originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19989284 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/smartfortworeview003opta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/smartfortworeview003opta.jpg <![CDATA[Smart Fortwo gets the deluxe treatment from Boxfresh]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/10/smart-fortwo-gets-the-deluxe-treatment-from-boxfresh/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/10/smart-fortwo-gets-the-deluxe-treatment-from-boxfresh/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/10/smart-fortwo-gets-the-deluxe-treatment-from-boxfresh/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Smart, UK, Design/Style, Luxury

Smart Brabus ForTwo by Boxfresh

Smart Brabus ForTwo by Boxfresh - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hard as it might seem to believe from its decidedly more spartan packaging, the Smart ForTwo is made by the same people responsible for the Maybach limousine and countless

Smart Brabus ForTwo by Boxfresh

Mercedes-Benz luxury automobiles. But as seems to be the craze these days, the Daimler city car division has teamed up with a British clothing label called Boxfresh for a substantially more luxurious version.

The special one-off starts with a Brabus-spec cabrio, packing 31 more horsepower than standard for 101 - not exactly earth-shattering output numbers here, but a lot for such a tiny car. Boxfresh has resprayed it in what looks like a matte gunmetal finish; the interior is swathed in a rather sumptuous-looking tan leather. A heavy twill canvas folding roof tops it all off.

As you can see from the many artful close-ups in our image gallery, the attention to detail looks immaculate. We dare not ask how much such a trim job cost. This is, after all, a one-off for the time being, with the commercially-available product of their collaboration set to be announced later this year.

One way or another, it's not likely to make the jump Stateside - we just hope this isn't what Brabus was hiding under the tarp in that video from last week.

Smart Fortwo gets the deluxe treatment from Boxfresh originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19962757 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web07-smart-boxfresh_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web07-smart-boxfresh.jpg <![CDATA[Brabus teases new Smart concept, we scratch our heads]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/brabus-teases-new-smart-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/brabus-teases-new-smart-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/brabus-teases-new-smart-concept/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Spy Photos, Performance, Videos, Hatchback, Smart

Smart Brabus concept

Smart Brabus concept is under wraps - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Of all the auto marques on the market, Smart isn't exactly the first we'd associate with high performance. That's where Brabus comes in.

The longtime Mercedes-Benz tuner has emerged as something like Smart's own AMG - that is to say, the factory-approved tuning house of choice - offering an array of aftermarket accessories for the diminutive city cars. But once in a while, Brabus also cranks out something truly unique.

In 2003, Brabus squeezed a twin-turbo V6 into the Smart Roadster. In 2006, Brabus followed up with the ForFour Race Concept that turned the ill-fated four-door Smart into a veritable hot hatch.

Brabus was keen to show it off for the official Smart website in the UK, and in the process hinted at the next show car coming down the road. Hard to say what it is, since all we see is a tarp, but considering that the ForFour and Roadster have long since kicked the bucket, it's fairly safe to assume it's based on the ForTwo - the core Smart product and the last remaining model Brabus hasn't yet tinkered with to the same extent. Follow the jump to see for yourself.

Continue reading Brabus teases new Smart concept, we scratch our heads

Brabus teases new Smart concept, we scratch our heads originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brabusbrabus fortwobrabus smartfortwosmartsmart brabussmart fortwoThu, 02 Jun 2011 18:59:00 EST

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19956277 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/smart-brabus-vidcap3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/smart-brabus-vidcap3.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Scion iQ delayed again, this time due to quake-related parts shortages]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/report-scion-iq-delayed-again-this-time-due-to-quake-related-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/report-scion-iq-delayed-again-this-time-due-to-quake-related-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/report-scion-iq-delayed-again-this-time-due-to-quake-related-p/#commentsFiled under: Budget, Plants/Manufacturing, Hatchback, Scion, Toyota

2012 Scion iQ

2012 Scion iQ - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Scion iQ will be getting the States even later than we thought, thanks to Toyota's parts supply woes. According to TheDetroitBureau.com, Scion now says the microcar, which was supposed to bow late this summer, has been postponed indefinitely.

Scion brass won't speculate on when the iQ will actually be launched, which makes sense since Toyota hasn't yet figured out when it can resume a full production schedule post-earthquake. The current word is that North America's iQ might not hit dealers until early 2012. This postponement marks the second time Scion has delayed the iQ's launch, and the third time the company has reportedly changed its mind about the car's on-sale timing.

Whenever it does appear on our shores, the tiny tot will look to pick up where the Smart ForTwo trailed off, with a raft of features you wouldn't expect in a diminutive econobox. Chief among those will be no fewer than 11 airbags, including rear-curtain units to protect passengers in a rear-end collision.

Gallery: New York 2010: Scion iQ

Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2011 AOL

[Source: TheDetroitBureau.com]

Report: Scion iQ delayed again, this time due to quake-related parts shortages originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 scion iqgreeniqscionsmart fortwotoyota iqThu, 21 Apr 2011 13:31:00 EST

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19920011 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/scion-iq-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/scion-iq-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Kobe Bryant uses Smart Fortwo Brabus to catch art thief]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/31/video-kobe-bryant-uses-smart-fortwo-brabus-to-catch-art-thief/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/31/video-kobe-bryant-uses-smart-fortwo-brabus-to-catch-art-thief/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/31/video-kobe-bryant-uses-smart-fortwo-brabus-to-catch-art-thief/#commentsFiled under: Budget, China, Marketing/Advertising, Hatchback, Smart, Celebrities

Kobe Bryant driving Smart Fortwo Brabus

Kobe Bryant saves the day in Smart Fortwo Brabus - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The Smart brand, looking for a sales lift in China, has enlisted the lanky likes of Kobe Bryant for its "Big, In The City" ad campaign. A newly released video has the internationally known NBA star assuming the role of a quick thinking/driving man of both style and action with a keen sense of aim.

With the aid of a shiny black Smart Fortwo Brabus that he - or perhaps a stunt double - throws around corners and through traffic, Kobe comes to the aid of a damsel in distress with flair as he chases down an art thief and utilizes his on-court abilities to administer a chase-ending coup de grâce.

The campaign will reportedly undertake a 25-city Chinese road trip, the highlight of which is an appearance by the Los Angeles Lakers star at a Smart customer party in July. Hit the jump for some Smart Brabus and Bryant action.

[Source: Advertising @ Chinasmack]

Continue reading Video: Kobe Bryant uses Smart Fortwo Brabus to catch art thief

Video: Kobe Bryant uses Smart Fortwo Brabus to catch art thief originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big in the citybrabuskobekobe bryantkobe bryant adlos angeles lakersnbasmart ad campaignsmart carsmart fortwosmart fortwo brabussmart+for+2smartfor2videoThu, 31 Mar 2011 14:58:00 EST

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19898743 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/smart-brabus-kobe-bryant-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/smart-brabus-kobe-bryant-630.jpg <![CDATA[Mirrored Smart Fortwo Electric Drive: Seven years of bad luck if you crash? [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/mirrored-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-seven-years-of-bad-luck-if/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/mirrored-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-seven-years-of-bad-luck-if/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/17/mirrored-smart-fortwo-electric-drive-seven-years-of-bad-luck-if/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Videos, Smart, Electric

disco-ball smart fortwo electric drive

Apparatjik rocks the disco-ball Smart Fortwo - Click above to watch video after the jump

What happens if you take a Smart Fortwo Electric Drive, add a disco-ball finish and then throw in Electriconic Rock group Apparatjik? You get the mirrored two-seater shown above, as well as a rather odd video featuring enough flashing lights to push epileptics into DEFCON 1.

The electric party-mobile is a one-off creation thought up by the Apparatjik crew. It's a music group comprised of Coldplay bassist Guy Berryman, A-Ha guitarist/keyboardist Magne Furuholmen, Mew lead singer Jonas Bjerre and producer Martin Terefe. The car will be used in a film called Pixel City. It also has a starring role in an Apparatjik music video, which can be seen after the jump. Just don't crash... that's a lot of mirrors ripe for a shattering.

Gallery: Disco-ball Smart Fortwo

[Source: Daimler]

Continue reading Mirrored Smart Fortwo Electric Drive: Seven years of bad luck if you crash? [w/video]

Mirrored Smart Fortwo Electric Drive: Seven years of bad luck if you crash? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apparatjikdisco-ball smartfortwofortwo electric drivemirror carmirrored carsmartsmart fortwosmart fortwo electric drivevideoThu, 17 Mar 2011 18:59:00 EST

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19881601 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/000-mirrored-smart-fortwo-lede_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/000-mirrored-smart-fortwo-lede.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #220 with <i>Consumer Reports' </i> John Linkov]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/07/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-220-with-consumer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/07/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-220-with-consumer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/07/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-220-with-consumer/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Etc., Ford, Jeep, Smart, Design/Style

Click above to subscribe to The Autoblog Podcast in iTunes

We record Episode #220 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and we'll be joined by John Linkov of Consumer Reports, as well. We'll of course discuss the Annual Autos Issue, as well as the other topics below. Use the forum below to drop us your own feedback and questions or vote on your fellow readers' submissions to help determine what else we discuss this evening. You can subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already to hear your question answered.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #219

Subscribe to the Autoblog Podacast and hear your questions asked:
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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #220 with Consumer Reports' John Linkov originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Mar 2011 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 geneva motor show2013 ford mustangautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 220autoblog podcast topicsconsumer reportsjeep subcompactjohn linkovsmart fortwoSmart Fortwo Electric DriveMon, 07 Mar 2011 17:15:00 EST

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19870302 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/autoblog-podcast-3-1275933205_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/autoblog-podcast-3-1275933205.jpg <![CDATA[Smart ForTwo Electric Drive to go on sale in early 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/04/smart-fortwo-electric-drive-to-go-on-sale-in-early-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/04/smart-fortwo-electric-drive-to-go-on-sale-in-early-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/04/smart-fortwo-electric-drive-to-go-on-sale-in-early-2012/#commentsFiled under: Car Buying, Coupe, Hatchback, Smart, Electric

Smart Fortwo Electric Drive

Smart ED - Click above for high-res image gallery

The second-generation Smart Fortwo Electric Drive (ED) is a limited (250 units available in the U.S.) test program model that Daimler will use to gauge consumer interest in battery-powered vehicles. Leasing the electrified Fortwo is costly, with payments ringing in at $599 a month for 48 months, plus $2,500 due at signing. Technically, the 2011 Smart ED is offered under the lease-only plan detailed above, but the automaker has listed its MSRP at $44,387.

Truth be told, we're not shocked by the Smart ED's lofty sticker price, nor are we put off by its astronomical lease rate. You see, this Fortwo ED is a limited run model and not a production electric vehicle.

But come January of 2012, the third-generation Fortwo electric, a production model, should hit the streets. By then, we'd hope that the automaker adjusts its pricing structure and offers the pint-sized electric at a more reasonable rate and, according to a report on Kicking Tires, a price drop seems to be part of Smart's plans.

Lessees of the second-gen Fortwo ED will be eligible to upgrade to Smart's electrified third-gen Fortwo when it hits the market and, unlike the automaker's current battery-powered hatch, the upcoming model will be offered for both lease and purchase.

Gallery: Smart ED

Photos copyright (C)2010 Sebastian Blanco / AOL

[Source: Kicking Tires]

Smart ForTwo Electric Drive to go on sale in early 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric carselectric vehiclesmartsmart edsmart fortwosmart fortwo edsmart fortwo electricsmart fortwo electric drivethird-generation smart evFri, 04 Mar 2011 17:32:00 EST

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19868675 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/smart-ed-nyc-png-19-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/smart-ed-nyc-png-19-630.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #217]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/15/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-217/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/15/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-217/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/15/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-217/#commentsFiled under: Chicago Auto Show, Etc., Chevrolet, GMC, Infiniti, Smart

Click above to subscribe to The Autoblog Podcast in iTunes

We're recording the slightly belated Episode #217 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and we've put some topics below. Drop us your own feedback and questions or vote on your fellow readers' submissions to help determine what we discuss this evening. You can subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already to hear your question answered.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #217

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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #217 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 chevrolet camaro zl1autoblog podcast topicscamarocamaro zl1canyonchevrolet coloradochicago auto showdaimler smartetheriagmc canyoninfiniti ethereapenske smartpodcast topicssmart carsmart fortwozl1Tue, 15 Feb 2011 17:15:00 EST

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19845483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/autoblog-podcast-3-1275933205_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/autoblog-podcast-3-1275933205.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2011: With two new models coming, "There is a future for Smart"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/smart-car-future-chicago-auto-show-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/smart-car-future-chicago-auto-show-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/10/smart-car-future-chicago-auto-show-2011/#commentsFiled under: Chicago Auto Show, Coupe, Hatchback, Smart

2011 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive

2011 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive - Click above for high-res image gallery

Smart has delivered its first ForTwo Electric Drive and the 2011 ForTwo is equipped with a suite of first-time features such as cruise control, navigation and eight airbags. But no matter the advances heaped upon the brand's sole ambasador now, the question many have is: does it have a future?

"There is a commitment to the Smart brand by Smart USA and Daimler's also committed," Rick Bourgoise, Smart's Director of Communications, tells Autoblog. "There are two paths to product expansion: the Daimler alliance with Nissan-Renault to provide a small car platform as part of the next Smart ForTwo as well as a four-seat model to arrive mid-decade." That car could be, or at least have something to do with, the scale model four-door ForTwo+2 spied recently in Europe. That car is being engineered by Mercedes-Benz and built by Daimler.

"That was good in the near term," said Bourgoise, "but we needed additional product in the short term." When he says "we," he's referring to Smart USA, which is Penske's distributorship operation that has the U.S. and Puerto Rico territories for Smart.

"Smart USA agreed with Nissan of the Americas to get a five-door, five-seat hatch that will arrive sometime in Q4 of 2011." That car refers to the Memorandum of Understanding that Smart signed with Nissan for a B-segment entrant last October. That means the car has officially been given the go-ahead. The platform is assumed to be that of the Micra, since it's "a global vehicle for Nissan that's not selling" here, and they're putting it together in one year. The design of that car is a collaboration between Smart and Nissan, but "it will be a Smart, will have Smart styling cues and stay true to those brand attributes," such as a tiny footprint and high efficiency and recyclability. Burgoise also confirmed "it will come in a standard manual and automatic transmissions." Bourgoise tells AB the unnamed car will be revealed sometime in late Q1 or Q2.

Gallery: 2011 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive: First Drive

Photos copyright (C)2011 Zach Bowman / AOL

Chicago 2011: With two new models coming, "There is a future for Smart" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 17:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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