Q: What are the smart fortwo electric drive emissions?

A: The smart fortwo electric drive does not emit any CO2, carbon monoxide, soot, particulate matter or pollutants.

Q: What running costs are associated with operating the vehicle?

A: As the electric drive does not need any engine oil and the drivetrain only has a few moving parts, the running costs for the smart fortwo electric drive are less than half of the running costs for a smart with a gasoline engine. The wearing parts such as tires, brakes, etc. are identical to those of the standard smart fortwo. Except for regular charging, the high-tech battery is maintenance-free and lasts for up to 10 years (depending on use).

Q: Electric vehicles barely make any noise. Does this present a danger for other road users if the vehicle isn't heard as it approaches?

A: Unlike vehicles with combustion engines, electric vehicles barely produce any driving/motor noise. While this may make it less likely to be heard, every road user has an obligation to adopt a suitable driving style to ensure that other road users are not put at risk. This includes full visual awareness of other vehicles. In addition, like any other car, the smart electric drive can brake and evade dangerous situations.

Q: Where is the battery positioned?

A: The battery is positioned in the underfloor below the driver's seat, which doesn't encroach on the interior space at all. This means that no compromises are made with regard to comfort, space or safety when compared to the gasoline-powered smart fortwo.

Q: Does the smart fortwo electric drive have electric power steering?

A: Yes.

Q: If the vehicle is heavier, does this mean that it is also slower than the original fortwo model?

A: The high torque of the E-motor is immediately available which provides for strong initial acceleration. The smart fortwo electric drive has no gearshift and accelerates to 60 km/h in 6.5 seconds. The maximum speed is electronically limited to 100 km/h (60 mph).

Q: Does the additional weight lead to greater under steering of the smart fortwo electric drive?

A: No. Thanks to the lower center of gravity, the smart fortwo electric drive has very good directional stability. The vehicle also features the latest generation ESP.

Q: Is the transmission any different to that of the normal smart?

A: Thanks to the power characteristic of the electric motor, the smart fortwo electric drive only needs a single fixed gear ratio. The electric motor's direction of rotation changes to drive in reverse.

Q: Is air conditioning available as an option?

A: Air conditioning is included in the standard spec of the smart fortwo electric drive.

Q: Heating and air conditioning consume electricity. How does this reduce the range?

A: This depends on the use of the heating and air conditioning and the outside temperature. However, the power electronics regulate the heating and air conditioning so as to minimize the strain on the battery. Furthermore, the SOC display on the dashboard signals when the battery is running low and the car needs to be recharged at the nearest station.

Q: Is it safe to use an electric vehicle in wet weather conditions?

A: Yes. There are no restrictions on usage.

Q: Does the vehicle have high-silica tires (with low rolling resistance) like the hybrid cars Honda Insight and Toyota Prius?

A: The smart fortwo electric drive is fitted with the standard smart fortwo tires which have naturally low-rolling resistance.

Q: Can the bodypanels be exchanged as with other smart models or adapted for company cars?

A: Yes, the exterior is identical to that of a normal smart fortwo. Since 2007, the smart fortwo electric drive has been the only truly electric vehicle made without compromising its design.

Q: How do you charge the electric drive?

A: The smart fortwo electric drive can be charged on a 110v or 220v outlet. It takes just 3.5 hours on a 220v outlet to charge from 20% to 80% of capacity.* For those who will drive the vehicle more aggressively, there are home charging solutions available through SPX. Details can be found at www.homecharging.spx.com/smart/.  (*Will vary based on outside temperature).

Q: Which customers will get the vehicles? Is there a waiting list?

A: There is currently no wait list. You may contact your local smart center for leasing information.

Q: When will the smart fortwo be available to everyone?

A: Vehicles are available for lease now. You may contact your local smart center for more information.