Brand That Created the "Microcar" Segment Creates the "Affordable Electric Car" Segment

New smart fortwo electric to Make its U.S. Debut in 2013 at $25,000

MONTVALE, NJ--Oct. 3, 2012:  smart USA announced today that it will bring in its third generation electric fortwo next spring at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $25,000, making it the most affordable production electric vehicle in the U.S.  A companion cabriolet model will retail at $28,000 when both models hit the U.S. market in the spring of 2013. Customers may also be eligible for federal tax credits (which run up to $7,500) or state/local tax credits, further reducing the cost.  Prior models were available for lease only.

"A signature characteristic of the smart brand is its commitment not only to being green but to making people think differently about it," said Tracey Matura, general manager of smart.  "Green can be fun.  Green can be affordable.  And a lot of us don't really need a four-seater, or at least not for every trip.  smart is about rightsizing for your transportation needs and also for your wallet."

Based on the iconic smart fortwo, which just recorded its all-time highest sales volume month under Mercedes-Benz USA with sales up 95% year-to-date, the electric drive will have the smallest footprint of any car on U.S. roads and its cabriolet sibling will be the only convertible electric vehicle on the market.  Further setting the fortwo apart from other vehicles on the market is its unique patented tridion safety cell (which functions like a race car's roll cage), its infinitely customizable exterior (over 6,000 possible combinations) and its green credentials which start at one of the most eco-friendly automotive production facilities in the world.

Customers can now pre-register for a smart electric drive on the official smart USA website: Smart USA Electric Drive.