July 13, 2006 The most logical fossil-fueled car on the market to convert to an electric car, the iconic smart fortwo, looks set to be finally available as a plug-in EV thanks to an announcement overnight in the UK. The UK has been selected to run a market trial for the introduction of a fully electric version of the popular two-seater car, with the smart ev (electric vehicle) set to make its debut at the British Motorshow at ExCeL on July 18. The smart ev sets a new benchmark in the electric vehicle sector; it has 30kW output and a top speed of 70 mph. It offers even better in-town performance than its petrol powered stablemate, with 0-30 mph in 6.5 seconds. With a range of up to 72 miles, the smart ev is exempt from vehicle excise duty and congestion charge in the UK.
The car will be made available on a lease arrangement to selected UK corporate customers with deliveries starting in November.
The drive train for the smart ev is produced in the UK by technology partner Zytek Group who undertake final assembly of the smart ev in Fradley, near Litchfield.
Dermot Kelly, Managing Director Mercedes Car Group, said: "A market trial of the smart ev is a significant step for the Mercedes Car Group as it is an important part of our commitment to sustainable mobility."
Kelly continued: "We expect to deliver up to 200 units in this market trial phase and will work with corporate partners, to find suitable applications for the ev, and with green energy suppliers to deliver zero emissions from well to wheel."
