NEW YORK – Smart will double its U.S. model lineup next month with the launch of coupe and convertible electric vehicles.
Currently, the brand is offering coupe and convertible gasoline-fueled cars here, with the EVs already on sale in Europe. The conventionally powered coupe bases at $12,490 in the U.S., but a special $99-per-month lease makes for an easier entry into the Daimler brand.
Smart expects worldwide sales to be flat in 2013 at more than 100,000 units, says Managing Director Annette Winkler. U.S. demand also should be on par with last year, when the brand delivered 10,009 units, according to WardsAuto data.
Smart has been on sale for 14 years and finally will launch its second-generation model in Europe this year, followed by the U.S. rollout in 2014.
The new car is being co-developed with Renault and will share its platform with the Renault Twingo. It will debut as a 2-seater and be available shortly afterward as a 4-seater, but the latter isn't scheduled to come to the U.S., Winkler says.
The Smart factory will close for two months this summer for retooling for the new model. Winkler says there will be enough inventory to carry dealers through the shutdown.
The new model will be about the same length overall as the current car and will be powered by a Renault engine. A new transmission also is being designed for the new models.
The second-generation Smart will stay true to its heritage of urban mobility, Winkler tells WardsAuto. It will remain small enough for two of the vehicles to fit into a single parking spot, while complying with the most demanding crash regulations.
Smart is sold in 45 countries, with Germany, Italy, China, U.S. and U.K its top markets. The EVs are most popular in Germany, where waiting time for delivery can take up to eight months.
“Smart found its personality in the electric vehicle,” Winkler says. The EV's cruising range is 90 miles (145 km). Most drivers in Europe travel about 30-40 miles (48-64 km) per day.
The EV sells for €23,900 ($30,934) in Europe. A separate package that includes a battery warranty and vehicle-maintenance plan costs €65 ($84) per month. About 95% of European customers take that option.
Smart will price its EVs aggressively in the U.S., Winkler says, with the coupe starting at $25,000 ($299 per month lease) and $28,000 for the convertible. No other mainstream auto maker offers a convertible EV.
With available federal and state tax credits, prices could drop below $20,000.
U.S. Smart dealers started taking orders for the EVs in late March. The sale and care option is being studied for the U.S., a spokeswoman says.
The Smart battery pack can be recharged from 20%-80% in less than four hours with a 240V outlet. A complete charge on that voltage takes up to six hours.
