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Showing posts with label Smart. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Smart. Show all posts

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Possibly the World's Worst Parallel Parker Ever


You know you have no idea how to park � wait, actually scratch that - drive a car when you're having an extremely hard time fitting a Smart Fortwo into a spot big enough for a Cadillac Escalade and probably then some�
Hop over the break to view video that lasts close to five minutes (!) before the young woman manages to park her Lilliputian Fortwo.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

2011 Smart Fortwo Receives Minor Upgrades


The Smart Fortwo is entering the 2011 model year with an almost invisible change here and there complemented by the introduction of more economical engines.

In addition to the new range of available exterior colors that now include a matt finish and the availability of a red or blue colored soft-top for the cabrio models, the updated Fortwo gets fresh fabric and color options for the interior while the tridion safety cell is now optionally available in white.

Thursday, July 21, 2011

2011 Smart Fortwo Review

The new generation smart fortwo will be launched in autumn 2010 the new look of the interior, exterior and an upgraded engines greener. The colors available outside now contains a trendy matte finish. In addition, car security tridion is an option available in new colors of red and white, and blue to extend the range of soft colors available convertible. LED daytime running lights and new alloy wheels provide more opportunities for customization. Fresh colors and fabrics, and a new cab design to determine an environment of high-quality interior. Communication and entertainment center features cutting-edge technology. The vehicles are powered by a state-of-the-art petrol engines, which were further developed with version 45 and 52 kW, the emissions are less than 100 g / km of CO2 - a new benchmark. Smart celebrates the arrival of a new generation of hospitality Limited model features a high-quality equipment.

2011 Smart Fortwo
A new generation of innovative two-seater smart fortwo is even more attractive and environmentally friendly. Marc Langenbrinck, managing director of the smart brand says "We are still working hard to make our models even better and more intelligent in all respects desirable. Fortwo smart new generation is perfect for our times. It 'attractive and stylish. It has including high-quality materials, attention to detail visible even greater convenience and enhanced functionality. And do not forget that smart drivers are often unconventional thinking and look for alternatives. The new generation smart fortwo has a wide range of engines and opportunities customization to meet their needs. "

New ideas for outdoor

More colors are available in the new generation smart fortwo is even more pronounced appearance. Customers can now choose from seven exterior colors instead of the previous six - including a matte finish to fashion. In addition, a new color without light green, light blue metallic blue metallic replaces the previous one. In addition, front spoiler, side skirts and rear bumper can be painted body color on request. Fuel filler neck is painted the same color as the body in the future.

SMART is still expanding choice of colors available for the smart fortwo cabriolet of the new red and blue soft top and the Tridion safety cell is a bright white. In conjunction with the mirror Tridion safety cell surrounds the white door and the grille is painted white. These color combinations and modern constellations provides smart fortwo a completely new face.

Optional LED headlights are a particularly eye-catching detail. Three new alloy wheels 15 inches also bring new ideas to the field of design and styling.
 
2011 Smart Fortwo
Interior in harmony with a soft welfare

The interior of the new generation fortwo has been redesigned and has a sweet and spacious comfort of mood. The full fabric covered instrument panel with a new style and fabric designs contribute to the news.

Additional features include teams attention to detail. These include new indicators in contrast to a central black disk of the dashboard and instrument panel, and a choice of cloth-covered center armrest. A wheel three-spoke leather-wrapped with cruise control function and trip computer are optional. In addition, customers can opt for ambient lighting with new LED lighting adjustable to create a pleasant atmosphere.

New styles complement the set of intelligent storage systems and practical arrangements. For example, a large storage box is available as an option at the bottom of the center console. Optional storage compartment contains a function clips to keep notes, for example, in the seat pocket and the sides of the seats as standard to offer any other storage space. New one-hand operating the tailgate is a practical detail, which adds convenience.

And 'art: Information, Communication and Entertainment

Advanced communications and entertainment systems are available for next-generation fortwo. The new sound system navigation / multimedia is a truly multimedia talent with a 16.5-inch widescreen, integrated navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free USB port and AUX devices and an interface to control an iPod. The core sound system also has a USB port and AUX to CD or MP3 player.

The SMART status of a popular series of the iPhone turns your phone to a multimedia computer, optimized for smart fortwo in terms of functionality and design. Includes an intelligent support for the iPhone and smart enough to run the iPhone application developed by the intelligent and have all the important features required when driving a car: hands-free phone calls through the system, extended its music collection, Internet radio and intelligent navigation system for a special touch smart.

The new surround sound system option provides superior sound experience. A multi-channel digital amplifier with an output power of 8x40 watts and a speaker system delivers a tailored impressive.
 
2011 Smart Fortwo
 New features BRABUS

The most significant change for lines BRABUS Xclusive BRABUS und, new wheel design alloy wheels Monoblock VII. The BRABUS twin pipe rear silencer is also changed.

The BRABUS interior design was also modified in line with the new stylish interior design fortwo. The dashboard now includes dialing. The speed control function is available as a new option.

Engines with low fuel consumption and emissions

The engines of the new generation is to work more efficiently than ever before.

CDI 40 kW diesel engine is a masterpiece of CO2 emissions are just 86 g / km. Optimized for gasoline engines also set new records in relation to CO2 emissions. Thanks for the detailed work on the engine's ECU and exhaust system and 45 kW and 52 kW MHD MHD consume 4.2 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (combined figure) - equivalent to CO2 emissions of 97 g / km (Figure combined). Version 62 kW consumes 4.9 liters of gasoline per 100 km (equivalent to CO2 emissions of 114 g / km). BRABUS Power version has been increased from 72 kW to 75 kW. Despite this, 119 grams of CO2 per 100 km (combined figure) even more powerful engine is below the limit of 120 grams.

Limited special model "smart fortwo edition light shine"

Brand smart fortwo is celebrating a new model generation is limited to accepting the praise of high-quality equipment will last for many interesting models details. Smart fortwo edition is based on a passion for the equipment to shine light line, which means that the standard features like air conditioning, Softouch, and the body panel, plus the package. It 'a new exterior colors available with green or blue light Matteo metallic than the coupe and convertible with the 52 kW petrol engine with MHD, 62 kW, 40kW petrol engine or the CDI engine.

The special model has all the normal changes implemented in the package of refinement of the model smart. These include a new fabric-covered instrument panel with a new disc, new upholstery in beige or black color design, the tank lid finished in body color and mesh pockets on the side of power between the seats.

Other highlights of the model are the special characteristics of the equipment otherwise the only option available. For example, high-performance audio system, navigation / multimedia, including navigation and Bluetooth hands-free, amazing daytime running LED lights and instruments.

And, finally, the only intelligent devices shine Fortwo Edition includes headlights light surrounds finished in body color, silver-gray painted 3-twin-spoke 15 "alloy wheels" Edition "logo on the mirror triangle. Components of contrast and opaque mats velvet with the "logo" Edition continues to update the interior.

The supplement for the model shines light Smart fortwo special edition on top of the basic version is € 2065 with a metallic finish and € 2,220 with the new matte finish green light (German price list including 19% VAT.).

Met ecological trend of urban mobility

As a leader smart fortwo has been to redefine the individual urban mobility for over ten years now. It combines environmental responsibility and high ecological standards, with high spirits and entertainment. With its compact size of the two-seater takes an unprecedented amount of road and parking. It boasts state of the art and use features geared towards the future, environmentally friendly technologies to provide its passengers to their destination comfortably and safely.

Many of the successes show that the Smart is the right way, and the tendencies of "intelligent" approach - for example in relation to the design: the smart fortwo has received the coveted red dot award for outstanding design has found its place in New York Museum of Modern Art, the first of its streets and in the United States in 2008. Ecology, or respect: emits only 86 grams of CO2 per kilometer, the CO2 champion smart fortwo cdi is the intelligent and the consumption of a smaller fleet. In addition, the Smart is a pioneer in the field of electric vehicles, and redefines the zero-emission urban transport. Or innovative mobility within the project "car2go" of Ulm, and the capital now Texas at Austin, the smart fortwo can spontaneously taken by anyone all day for a small fee. This new mobility concept, which won the Environmental Award ÖkoGlobe is a great success and makes driving in the city as easily as a cell phone.

Or the attitude towards life: the "smart urban stage" is the creation of intelligent platforms for temporary exhibitions in various cities for the future-oriented projects that relate to ideas for the future of urban life.

Moreover, the economy remains a unique feature of the smart fortwo. According to calculations by the ADAC, the largest German automobile club, even the first generation of the charming two-seater was the most economical car in the German market. The verdict was no other car is cheaper than in Germany. The car magazine "Auto, Motor und Sport" mode, put the two places in the top of the table of cost-efficiency of automobiles.

More than 1.2 million smart fortwo have been delivered to customers since the first model was launched in 1998. Today, customers in 43 countries on five continents are able to enjoy the popular car. During the 2010 smart fortwo will be launched in Argentina and Indonesia - bringing the total to 45 countries.

Smart forspeed Concept 2011

chip is to present a study on unconventional Geneva Motor Show 2011: Concept FORSPA smart contemporary urban mobility combined with the fun of a typical chip. Both places have no windows or roof next door and has a small wind deflector in place of a windshield in the style of a traditional propeller plane. The result is an unparalleled driving experience in the new air. The power of the sensitive reader that has developed and has a Boost function also ensures that driving pleasure. An advance to the next generation is particularly exciting that the era of electric mobility has already begun to chip.
 
Smart forspeed Concept 2011
No roof, windows and a minimum drive sensitive and emission-free electric back: smart forspeed Concept combines responsibility and emotional appeal of a new and enjoyable. Dr. Annette Winkler, head of Smart, said: "The forspeed chip is a completely new take on how fun it is to run electric:. It has a fabulous design with a force, and needless to say, of local free and if you put Intelligent forspeed next to our ebike, and escooter smart fortwo electric drive, you will see that Smart has become aware of all possible variations of the electrical conduit -. SMART shows that it is not only a practical city car but a great idea "forspeed The elegant design has a very innovative and confident. Dr. hc Gorden Wagener, head of design says" chic famous brand has always taken an unconventional approach with bold design.

The purist sportiness forspeed is now in the extreme and in shape, it is also a pioneer of a new paradigm of mobility. "

Powerful and environmentally friendly electric car with an extra boost

SMART is a pioneer of modern electric mobility. The second generation smart fortwo electric drive was delivered to its customers since late 2009. It was proven its suitability for daily use in 18 countries, including Germany, Italy, Spain, England, France, Switzerland, USA, Canada and several Asian countries. Due to the high number of production have increased the demand for 1500 vehicles. Thank you for this experience, Smart has already collected an extensive customer feedback that is integrated in the development of intelligent forspeed electric motor. With its performance and workload management concept vehicle offers a look at the performance potential of future generations of smart power.

For example, the concept forspeed intelligent acceleration 0-60 km / h in just 5.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 120 km / h 30 kW, magneto-electric motor is mounted behind the forspeed clever concept and provides a immediate response to a powerful place. Press the button on the center console activates the boost function that provides an additional 5 kW of power for a while ', and is ideal for urban motorway overtaking, for example. Intelligent forspeed is powered by a lithium-ion battery, which produces 16.5 kWh of electricity. It 'easy to download any standard 220 volt outlet. Turbocharging equipment third brake light is behind the SMART logo and features a simple push / push-opening mechanism. A fully charged battery will allow you the joy of driving 135 km (NEDC). Quick charging takes only 0-80 per cent for 45 minutes.

The developers have built FORSPA otherwise intelligent load on the wind deflector: photovoltaic cells for solar electrical system on board. As with the smart eScooter extending the battery life of your smartphone, for example.
 
Smart forspeed Concept 2011
External non-conventional

Its shiny white metallic paint forspeed concept is also smart to build a bridge and two wheels eBike escooter studies that were presented at the Paris Motor Show 2010.

Front and rear lights are a very striking design. Outer rings are illuminated by a series of LED lamps rod-shaped, while the center is white. The indicators seem to push outwards like the arrows - like the window of a plane falls into the cabin, will be removed. The front and rear bumpers are a number of holes in the honeycomb structure of air intake openings to create interesting and progressive design. At the same time, this model offers a particularly wide and the road forspeed strong position. Forspeed Smart has front tires in size 205/35 R 18, which corresponds to its dynamic aspect. And 'led tires measuring 235/30 R 18 rear axle grip full.
 
Smart forspeed Concept interior 2011
The press and sporty interior

From the outside, and an elegant design units forspeed real. This is reflected in many details: external power tridion safety car crash bars in front of the rear cabin, and the central part of the tunnel driving. Inner and outer sections are integrated into a single component, such as a floor and side walls. Leather seats are also one of the clamshell design and a modern interpretation of sportiness purist.

The air intake of the wind deflector ends in central socket in the center console, and can provide more fresh air indoors if necessary.

Exterior paint is glossy white dominated the country of origin. Green emphasizes the elements of sport, such as four-point seatbelts and driver and passenger, or a large horizontal shelf around the cabin, which provides storage space. All the controls that the driver is often used in particular as the gear lever, steering wheel or the opener will be the natural skin brown. Instead, the structural load-bearing elements, such as the Tridion safety car or a curved cut on the hoods instrument are Platinum Silver Matt. Operational factors, such as buttons on the steering wheel and gear shift lever is a door with the silver-painted shade.

The opening of two seats was deliberately designed without exterior door handle - a handle on the inside is all it takes to open the door. The control of the electric parking brake is especially convenient to use and has a simple, functional design: the switch on the center console is not unlike the lever used to bring the landing gear of aircraft.

There is a block with ten LEDs at the center of the dashboard. FORSPA starts when the LED shines through the transparent paint and displays the charging status of battery electric Smart. When the note from the waiver of the charge gauge, except for its outline.

With time and coating tarpaulin

The whole interior of the smart forspeed can be protected from rain and sun when it is necessary to have a tonneau cover. It's an easy feat to stretch on the inside and attach to the body with straps. It can be divided in two by using a zip to release the driver's seat only, for example.

But without a time pouring rain does not cause serious problems. Drainage channels in the floor of the vehicle to ensure that water is directed outside. Bearing surfaces of the drainage channels and all the equipment inside is water-resistant coating having fun behind the wheel, regardless of the weather.

Smartphone as a communication center

Purist sportiness of the interior is also reminiscent of aircraft design classic: the pilot and copilot sitting in front of two separate groups of round instruments turbine type. While the driver is the speedometer stuck in his field of vision, the passenger is responsible for communication and navigation systems: This area of ​​the cockpit is equipped with a smartphone. It can be rotated 90 degrees in the cradle, and towards the driver so the driver can also take a look at the screen of the navigation system.

Like the production models of the smart drive, smart application for the iPhone ® has all the important features that are required while driving, phone calls via the hands-free navigation, with a special touch to chip and Search for a car that guide the driver to park the car.

Intelligent lightweight design, aerodynamics and the state of the art LED technology

With your body in fiberglass reinforced plastic FORSPA SMART concept is a real lightweight. The low power to weight is favorable to driving pleasure. Moreover, the dynamic two-seater has an excellent aerodynamic round shapes, time, a deliberate lack of joints (for example, the front module of one piece), smooth surfaces and no door handles and lid later and the basic design of many details on the construction of aircraft to reduce aerodynamic drag.

The state of the art LED lighting technology contributes to active safety. In addition, intelligently controls: daytime running lights are automatically activated during the day. The system also detects when the driver FORSPA Citylight turns night into day: the photoelectric sensors to control light and give the command to switch automatically in low light when needed.

Friday, July 15, 2011

Smart Announces First All-Electric Carsharing Fleet in the US


Daimler�s Car2go subsidiary has announced the introduction of the first all-electric carsharing fleet in North America. According to company, the plan calls for 300 zero-emission Smart ForTwo electric cars to arrive in the city of San Diego by the end of the year.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 Smart Fortwo Cabrio

2011 smart fortwo cabrio review

In 2011 Smart Fortwo is a car of contradictions. In many ways that people expect to suffer it - the interior space, passenger comfort and crash-test scores, for example - the Fortwo is actually quite good. But in other aspects that you would otherwise take for granted that the Fortwo is disappointing.

Smart fortwo 1.0 liters the three-cylinder engine of 70 horsepower - an impressive figure in the world today. This is not a big drawback, however, as the Fortwo usually feels surprisingly strong in the city. No, the problem is the transmission which is connected. This clutch of a single, automated manual transmission changes gears slowly and awkwardly, as the shock perceptible shift passengers wonder what's wrong.

 

There are other contradictions, too. Smart cars Small footprint means it is easy to install in the smallest of parking spaces, but the commitment to drive Jumpy during the process of parking makes it a real adventure. Fuel economy is very good, but the engine requires premium gas. And even if it is really an expensive car, 2011 Smart Fortwo is expensive for what you get, which is essentially two-dimensional with a city car, city-oriented personality.

Considering all this, competition is the Smart Fortwo looks quite attractive. Even if we were to forgive some of its shortcomings Fortwo, there would still recommend any number of fundamental (albeit slightly more expensive) cars more well-rounded personality. This group includes the Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent and the Mazda 2

 

Body styles, trim levels and options

2011 Smart Fortwo is a subcompact hatchback available in two-seat coupe or convertible (Cabriolet). There are two trim levels: Pure and Passion.

Pure steel wheels including 15 inch, remote keyless entry, leather-wrapped steering wheel and two pre-wired speakers. Options include air conditioning and radio with auxiliary audio / USB.

Pure Passion Coupe added options, plus alloy wheels 15 inch paddle shift transmission, a glass roof, heated power mirrors, power windows and a sport steering wheel. The passion cabriolet also added a high-powered convertible, a glass rear window and side air bags (instead of side air bag curtain).

Options on the pure passion is the LED daytime running lights, automatic lights and wipers, power steering, heated seats, central console storage and an alarm. Cruise control is also available and includes an onboard computer, but removes the paddle. Passion models can be further equipped with gauges and additional Comfort Package, which includes fog lights, power steering and heated leather seats.

Also available is the styling package that adds wider tires and wheels, fog lamps and metallic paint. Most options are also available including their own.

Engines and performance

Fuel Smart Fortwo 2011 is a rear-mounted 1.0-liter three-cylinder 70 hp Mitsubishi emission and 68 lb.-ft. of torque. This is sent to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission automatic. The transmission can be shifted manually if desired via the bar mounted on the console in all models and shift paddles on the steering wheel of the Passion.

During testing, a Smart Fortwo went from zero to 60 mph in 14.1 seconds on its way to the ice at a speed of 90 mph. Although its fuel capacity is only 8.7 liters, the range is acceptable considering its estimated fuel economy of 33 mpg EPA highway and 36 mpg city/41 mpg combined. Premium unleaded is required, however.

Security

The 2011 Smart Fortwo is built by Mercedes-Benz, and as such, provides ample protection for the occupants. Standard safety equipment includes side curtain airbags airbags for coupe and convertible hand, strengthen knee airbags, antilock brakes (front discs and rear drums), Hill Assist, stability control and 'traction. In braking tests, the Fortwo Passion stopped to 60 mph in 124 feet - a distance of more than the average for a subcompact.

Smart Fortwo is not designed for use in the new government more difficult in 2011 crash-test methods. The 2010 votes (which are not comparable with the tests 2011) has produced four out of five stars and shock protection driver and front passenger protection, three stars. Side impact, the Smart has a perfect five of five stars. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the highest score Smart "Good", as well as the frontal impact and side protection.

 

Interior Design and Special Features

Despite its exterior proportions comically small, the Smart Fortwo is very spacious inside. Not quite the head and legs of the occupants over 6 feet, while the benefits of the passengers additional 6 inches of travel safety. The passenger seat folds down to provide more space for the loading of 7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the seats can hold (12 cubes if you load on the roof, blocking rear visibility).

The interior is comfortable, modern design with a choice of monochrome and two-tone color palette available. The models Passion upholstery fabric with bright colors and wild patterns, while the base model, including Pure tame by comparison - a radio and air conditioning is optional.

Driving Impressions

Do not expect too much refinement of driving with 2011 Smart Fortwo. Ruts and potholes on the road and have mitigated satisfactorily Fortwo can be fun to drive around the city, but a small car is easily upset by gusty crosswinds and passing trucks on the road. In addition, an automated manual gearbox is a unit of crude oil can be found in any car. Shifts are not only slow, but they are also involved in major trouble. Gear changes can be made smoother with a well at the right time to raise the throttle valve in manual mode, but that the losses from self-respect, in the first place.

Pull away from a stop, the Smart car is the least able to accelerate with more authority than the golf, but quickly runs out of steam as the towers and the speed increases. Increase in questions, the automatic clutch to react and slow in parking lots, the car has a tendency to rush forward or backward, rather than to crawl or roll. We are not supporters of the position of the brake pedal and its incompatibility raises awkward.

Price $ 17.690

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Smart forfun2, 2006

Smart forfun2, 2006


Smart forfun2: The combination of two vehicles with cult status

The smart forfun, a smart forfour with monster truck ambitions, caused quite a stir at the Athens Motor Show in November 2005. Following the extremely positive response to this, the decision to develop a further vehicle with a similar character was a logical step.

Following the initiative of Mercedes-Benz Hellas, Stefan Attart (46), Greek Champion in 4x4 Rally Races had clear ideas: the new off-road vehicle should have the body of a smart fortwo. A suitable platform now had to be found.

Awakening the inner child
DaimlerChrysler has always had an unusually large range of off-road vehicles - from the M-Class to the G-model and the Unimog. One look at the smart forfun2 (pronounced smart for-fun to the second) and you see straightaway that it is based on a Mercedes-Benz Unimog 406 series.

This is what makes it so fascinating: the combination of two vehicles, each of which has achieved cult status in its respective segment. So it's no wonder that the smart forfun2 awakens the inner child in everyone who sees it.


Oversized dimensions
The engine and transmission were adopted from the Unimog. The OM 352, a six-cylinder diesel engine with a capacity of 5,675 cc, was given a prominent and clearly visible position on the front axle. It delivers 84 bhp - an impressive figure for the smart forfun2. The diesel version of the production car has a 41 bhp engine.

The dimensions also turn heads: tyres on 26 inch rims with a diameter of 140 cm. Not to mention ground clearance of 65 centimetres and an unbelievable total height of 3.7 metres.

Maximum off-road mobility
The designers wanted to give the smart forfun2 maximum off-road mobility - and the platform of the 406 offers optimum prerequisites for off-road driving. The off-road character is further emphasized by oversized wheels and the safety cage made of aluminium tubes.

To optimise the vehicle for off-road driving, in addition to special shock absorbers Stefan Attart fitted manually controlled air suspension. This enables the driver to specifically influence individual springs - a particular advantage on extreme downhill gradients.

Uncompromising vehicle concept
Everything in one car that is sure to divide opinions - or boys from men. Two vehicles, which each represent an uncompromising vehicle concept in their respective environments, and yet remain unique. And this combination in the smart forfun2 is sure to cause even more controversy.

As with the real smart fortwo, some people are sure to find the concept of the smart forfun2 too radical, whilst others will love it - with not many opinions in-between. However running apart from the herd is probably the best prerequisite for achieving cult status.


Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Smart Roadster, 2003

Smart Roadster, 2003


Smart Roadster
The Smart Roadster is a two-door microcar first introduced in 2003 by Smart GmbH. Unfortunately, sales of the Roadster and Roadster Coup� were far below expectations, resulting in a halt of production of both models in November 2005.

History
At the 1998 Paris Motor Show, the two-seat, 2.5-metre Smart City Coupe (later named Smart Fortwo) was launched. This was the beginning of a new car brand and one of the more radical vehicle concepts to hit the European market since the bubble cars of the 1950s. It was also the beginning of a difficult period for Smart. The City Coupe had stability problems that were uncovered only immediately prior to launch. These forced a package of alterations to be made that were both expensive and compromised the car�s handling, ride and gear shift. Public concerns over the car's stability, combined with Smart�s elitist marketing and the sheer radicality of the car�s design, proved damaging to initial sales. Production projections were slashed from 200k per year to 80k, close to disastrous for a new brand with just one product.

Design & Development
Under design director Jens Manske in autumn 1998, Smart's 14-strong design and engineering team began to sketch possible future Smart cars. They soon realised that the powertrain of the City Coupe was ideal for a small sports car, with a compact turbo engine driving the rear wheels via a sequential 6 speed gearbox.

Following Smart�s �reduce to the max� philosophy and general innovative approach, a concept for a super compact, practical and pure sports car was generated. Two quarter-scale exterior and two quarter-scale interior models were made in February 1999 with Volker Leutz�s exterior and Christoph Machinek�s interior proposals selected for development into full-size development models. The design of the car had progressed considerably by the time Michael Mauer officially arrived from Mercedes Benz's Japan design center to take over Menske's position in May 1999. Mauer worked closely with the design team to quickly develop the roadster, with the intention now of producing a show car for the upcoming 1999 IAA motor show in Frankfurt.

By early 2000 the Smart City Coupe had finally started to gain sales momentum, with its cabrio version making a significant addition to total Smart sales. In March Mauer left Smart for Saab, succeeded by Hartmut Sinkwitz in May. As the third design director of Smart during the Roadster's development, Sinkwitz had to bring the concept to production in a very short time. This task may have been made somewhat easier by the Roadster having been designed from the start to use existing powertrain and other City Coupe components. Given some of the advanced design features, it is a credit to the design team that so much of the concept car made it to production.

Concept Car
The �Roadster Coupe� as shown at the 2000 Paris motor show was already on its way to production form. It shared the design of the Roadster from the doors forward, but had a glass targa roof and rear structure resembling a very small estate (station wagon) in the same way as the BMW Z3 coupe and the Saab 9X concept car developed under Mauer at Saab a few years later.
Production versions of both Roadster and Roadster Coupe debuted together at the 2002 Paris Motor Show and were available to buy within a few months. Both cars were unique in the market, being significantly smaller that the Toyota MR2, MG TF, Fiat Barchetta and Mazda MX5, but offering similar performance and practicality to the base versions of these cars while significantly more fuel efficient.

Production
The Smart Roadster and Roadster Coup� were introduced in 2003, based on a stretched platform of the Fortwo (full length is 3427 mm). The two variants are meant to be reminiscent of the British roadster of yore, such as the Triumph Spitfire or the MG B. Both the Roadster and Roadster Coup� are available with a removable Targa roof or an electrical Softtop. The Roadster is powered by 45 or 60 kW (61 or 82 PS) versions of the turbocharged 3-cylinder engine in the rear, which is engineered by Mercedes Benz. The Roadster Coup� has only the more powerful 82 PS engine. A steering wheel with Formula 1-style gearpaddles, to control the semi-automatic sequential transmission, is optional. With weight as low as 790 kg, it is meant to provide the emotion of driving a sports car at an affordable cost. Still, the Roadster's price is not very far from that of a Fiat Barchetta or Mazda MX-5.

Both the Roadster and Roadster Coup� are available in Brabus-tuned versions with power increased to 74 kW (101 PS). The Brabus versions have a different twin sports exhaust, lower suspension, polished six-spoke aluminum alloy Monoblock VI 17" wheels, front spoiler, side skirts and radiator grille. Exclusive Brabus interior includes leather trimmed dashboard, alloy-effect accent parts, instrument graphics, leather/aluminium gearknob, aluminium handbrake handle, aluminium pedals and Brabus labeled floor mats.