smart goes electric

Could this be our new car? From the looks of it, it's not that much more expensive than the smart car we bought back in 2008.


When It'll Be Available: In October 2010, Fortwo ED will be available in very limited quantities for testing purposes in select U.S. cities. A total of 250 cars will be available for $599 per month for 48 months and 37,282 miles. Daimler announced that expanded U.S. sales will begin in January, 2012.

The Details: A Microcar, the Smart Fortwo ED is available as a three-door hatchback. The battery can be charged from 20 percent to 80 percent capacity with a 220V outlet in 3 hours. The Fortwo's range is 84 miles and the top speed is only 62 mph, it can go from 0-37 mph in 6.5 seconds.

The Fortwo uses battery packs made by Tesla, and is based off the original gas-powered Smart Fortwo, which is currently available with a gasoline engine rather than an electric motor.

Price: Base price ranges from $12,635 to $21,635

MPG: 300 miles per gallon.

What They're Saying: Car and Driver reviewed the Fortwo ED and was pleased with the car's small size. "It will probably be used as a second car or for people in urban areas who want to take advantage of specific incentives (electric cars are exempt from London’s £8-a-day congestion charge, for instance) or the Fortwo’s size," they write.

And despite its small size, the Smart Fortwo received a “good” rating from IIHS in 8/11 measured injury categories. The NHTSA gives it a four-star frontal driver crash test rating.

You can read about six other electric cars that will be available for purchase in the USA either right now or in the near future by clicking here.