Back in July, Autocar reported that Smart would focus some of its attention on developing a vehicle that rides on two wheels. Autocar's source, a "senior Mercedes-Benz official" did not directly confirm Smart's plans to tackle a two-wheel vehicle, but did claim that:
Smart was originally established to tackle the need for improved mobility, especially in congested city environments. Up to now we have concentrated our efforts on four-wheel solutions. The next stage is to look at how to expand beyond this with other environmentally friendly vehicles.
In October, Smart introduced the world to its E-Scooter concept at the Paris Motor Show. Now, Automotive News Europe (sub. req.) reports that Smart is actually considering the launch of both an electric scooter and a battery-powered motorcycle. On the sidelines of the Detroit Auto Show, Smart's Annette Winkler told ANE that the automaker may bolster its lineup with the addition of a duo of electric two-wheelers. Furthermore, Winkler added that Smart intends to decide, by the end of summer, whether or not to forge forward with the development of the battery-powered two-wheelers. As Smart USA president Jill Lajdziak told AutoblogGreen recently:
If it makes sense as another element to meet their needs from a mobility standpoint, [adding a two-wheeled vehicle] will be great. I think if you're a car brand, you're going to be grounded in some type of vehicle but it can always be augmented by other things.
Apparently, Smart is seeking a motorcycle maker to assist with the production of its electric two-wheelers. However, the automaker is unwilling to disclose any additional information at this time.
[Source: Automotive News – sub. req.]
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