The cars would be leased at $599 a month for 48 months plus $2,500 at signing, for a total of $31,252. That sum had to be payed before taxes or any potential governmental rebates. In addition Daimler would take the cars back at the end of the four years.
Now, a company spokesman has revealed that the customer delivery schedule is close to being announced. According to Green Car Advisor, the notification will come "in very short order."
"Some of the 250 that will be available for lease have not been spoken for, so folks that are interested are encouraged to sign up now," said SmartUSA Director of Communications.
The ED fortwos are powered by a 30 kW magneto-electric motor, installed at the rear which provides 120 Nm of torque at any revs. The unit allows the tiny vehicle to accelerate from naught to 60 mph (98 km/h) in 6.5 seconds.
The Tesla-sourced lithium-ion battery can be recharged from any 220 Volt socket. According to smart, this takes about 3 hours.
"The 2010 vehicle is not a technology test, it's to learn about the market. We know there is increasing demand so we're not concerned about customer acceptance, but working in a market that doesn't exist if you want to jump into the water you'd better learn how to swim. 2012 is when the story really starts with all markets and dealers involved, better range, power capability and stronger battery cells," a smart official recently stated.
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