It’s Official: Smart vehicles coming to the USA in 2008

This time its true: Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management DaimlerChrysler AG and head of Mercedes Car Group officially announced today that innovative Smart brand will enter the U.S. market in 2008. The first model coming over at the States will be the successor to the smart fortwo and it will be available in three models.

Like its predecessor, the smart fortwo successor will have all the features that make customers feel safer and more comfortable. As part of the Mercedes Car Group, the smart vehicle will be equipped with unique technology, including the “hard shell” tridion safety cell, ESP and various airbag systems.

The exclusive distribution of smart vehicles has been given to the international automotive retailer UnitedAuto Group, Inc. UnitedAuto will be responsible for awarding potential dealers and developing and maintaining a smart vehicle dealership network throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. Read more at www.smartusa.com/

Quotes: Dieter Zetsche

“Following the success of the smart fortwo in our first North American market, Canada, and the increasing demand for affordable and fuel efficient small cars in the U.S.A., we are now bringing this new kind of mobility to U.S. cities. The time has never been better for this – and I am convinced that the smart fortwo as an innovative, ecological and agile city car will soon become just as familiar a sight on the streets of New York, Miami or Seattle, as it is today in Rome, Berlin or Paris."

Quotes: Roger Penske (UnitedAuto Chairman)

“We are thrilled with the opportunity to represent the smart brand in the United States and Puerto Rico. Through our international diversification, we’ve seen the benefits the smart brand provides in Europe. We believe the U.S. market will embrace the smart vehicle with its exceptional fuel economy, environmentally friendly features, and advantageous price point. We look forward to a successful launch of this vehicle over the next several years.”

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