Elektromotive to Start smart Trial

German manufacturer Daimler and recharging solution provider Elektromotive announced today they will begin testing of the smart electric vehicle in the UK over a period of four years. Aside from providing Daimler with the badly needed feedback, Elektromotive will also try and create new, better charging station.

“The shift towards zero emissions motoring is fast gathering pace, and it is vital that fully compatible recharging infrastructures for EVs are put in place across Europe,” Calvey Taylor-Haw, Elektromotive managing director said when receiving the keys to the smart in Brooklands.

“With daily access to a smart electric drive we will accelerate the real-world evaluation of new charging technologies, such as fast-charging solutions for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles."

Last week, Daimler decided on the place were the second generation electric smart will be built. Starting with the end of this year, the French facility in Hambach will begin rolling out the vehicle, in preparation for full-scale production scheduled to begin in 2012.

Daimler's EV has a range of 115 km, available after recharging the vehicle overnight. A three hour charging time is enough to give it 30 or 40 km autonomy, with the top speed rated at 100 km/h.

“The smart electric drive project is an important part of our commitment towards developing sustainable transport solutions across the Mercedes-Benz business. smart continues to be a pioneer in the world of environmentally friendly and economical driving and we’re delighted that Elektromotive is our partner in this exciting electric car trial,” Dermot Kelly, Daimler UK managing director concluded.