Smart decision for Daimler Chrysler or big mistake?

DaimlerChrysler is set to bring the fuel-efficient subcompact Smart car brand to the United States in 2007, according to a published report.

The Detroit News, citing a source familiar with company plans, reported the decision will be announced Tuesday. But a spokeswoman for the Smart brand declined to comment on the report.

"We have not made any decision on a U.S. launch," said Bettina Singhartinger. "You can expect something this week. Until then we do not comment on speculation."

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PlanoA4 - 6/27/2006 2:21:49 PM

+1 Boost

Well considering this is direct competition to the Prius and Insight (discontinued), and it blows both of them in the weeds, it might be a good thing for them. Now will the tree huggers rally around it?

atomicbri - 6/27/2006 4:52:44 PM

+1 Boost

This car would be perfect for where I live (NYC) and I think it would be a welcome change to get around town in something that is easy to park, and cheap to run gas in....

RavenR1 - 6/27/2006 5:43:04 PM

+1 Boost

it will do well in urban areas.

MercBasher - 6/27/2006 8:25:09 PM

+1 Boost

I think its an excellent idea to bring the Smart - DCX will be able to claim a fuel efficient vehicle - their only one in the US.

wwww - 6/28/2006 12:25:14 AM

+1 Boost

In Canada, the Smarts were selling quite well, especially for businesses who wants to stand out and save gas for their company car. Many Businesses like Pizza Delivery, Printing Services, Tech Support and Even top furniture stores all uses Smart for two, as it is a logical choice. Most businesses only require 1-2 persons to be on location (deliveries or to the door services or meeting with clients (design firms/ furniture stores) that the For two comes in handy. It also serves as an attention grabber and perfect blend to put company logos on.

It runs well in urban areas and I believe Vancouver has free city parking for ppl who drives smarts cuz it saves space and saves the environment to an certain extend.

TIER1 - 6/29/2006 10:07:39 AM

+1 Boost

Zapcars has been selling these out of CA since 2004. They can tell how big hit these are...

wwww - 7/1/2006 5:46:31 PM

+1 Boost

The base model comes in a manual with computerized/ programmed clutch. Is a real clutch and the gear shifter only has R-N-+/- it is like the european cars. The car takes care of the clutch for you, but u will need to shift through the 5 gears. The automatic gearbox is another 1k or something

ElSparquito - 7/12/2006 10:37:16 PM

+1 Boost

Hasn't Smart consistently lost money since it's inception?