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smart is set to clean up when it
comes to environmental
compatibility and driver
enjoyment with the launch of a
new model with micro hybrid
drive (mhd) technology and
enhanced equipment levels.
From November, 61hp and 71hp
versions of the iconic smart
fortwo will feature micro hybrid
drive as standard, which is an
automatic start/stop start
function helping to provide
significant savings in terms of
both fuel economy and emissions.
The smart mhd models return fuel
savings of up to 24 per cent and
lower CO2 emissions
to 103 grams per kilometre.
The micro hybrid drive system
operates during the engine
idling phases. The engine stops
when it senses that the smart’s
speed drops below 5mph and the
driver is braking. When the
driver releases the brake pedal
the engine is instantly
restarted.
The start/stop function makes no
additional demand on the driver
and, working in conjunction with
the smart’s automated manual
transmission, is completely
seamless thanks to a powerful
belt-driven starter generator
that replaces both the
conventional starter and
alternator.
If the driver prefers not to use
the micro hybrid drive system,
it can be deactivated via a
switch on the centre console
until the next time the car is
started.
Complementing the smart’s
improvements in driveability is
an upgraded interior and new
exterior finishes.
Changes to the spacious cabin
include a redesigned instrument
cluster with an enhanced LCD
display and new net storage
pockets in the driver and
passenger doors, while the
passion’s “design red” interior
trim has now also been updated
to match the new “rally red”
paint finish.
The elegant “grey metallic”
completes the revisions to the
smart’s exterior colour palette,
while new optional 15” six-spoke
alloy wheels add to the already
stylish appearance. For even
more glamour these wheels can
also be specified in a chrome
finish.
The micro hybrid variant is
available as a coupe and a
cabrio in all three lines –
pure, pulse and passion – and is
priced from £7,060 on the road. |
