I finally took the plunge and decided to trade my tired Chrysler for a new smart car. Sounds easy, trading in a car, but the closest smartcar dealerships are in Chicago and Minneapolis so to the North land I went. The smart car didn't make it across the pond until 2008 and there aren't many of them around. Thankfully, I found a used one in happy shade of tomato in a northern suburb of Minneapolis and came home with half a car that is taller than it is long.
The smart fortwo (for two people) passion (love that name) cabriolet (convertible) gets about 33 mpg city/41 mpg highway. I'm already feeling pretty eco-friendly. Add to that the green processes that are used in the production of the car and I feel that I've done well for the environment...at least as well as I can do with my budget and the manufacturing processes that are currently available.
According the the smart Web site: "The smart fortwo is produced at "smartville" in Hambach, France. System partners on site deliver the prefabricated modules directly to the production line. Protecting the environment, energy efficiency and preservation of natural resources are hallmarks of smart brand. It starts with smart development through to the production of the cars in smartville. For example, only water-soluble paints are used for the smart's three basic colors – black, white and red. Painting the tridion safety cell is done by the powder-coating process. This removes the need for solvents. The body panels with molded-in color are fully recyclable.
The smart fortwo is also classified as an Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) due to its extremely low exhaust emissions. The catalytic converter is positioned close to the engine for a quick response. An electric pump blows fresh air into the exhaust port when the engine is cold to almost completely oxidize the carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HC) and render them harmless." Isn't that awesome?
Other nice features include an auto feature for my lights and windshield wipers. The heated seats have already gotten a work out with our latest cold snap and and have not failed to please. There is plenty of room in the back for groceries and trips to Goodwill and ReStore. The ride is fine on smooth streets, but can be pretty bumpy on many of Cedar Rapids roads. And I love all the room I now have in my garage. All in all, it's working great for what it is intended, inexpensive and eco-friendly alternative to in-town transportation. So far I'm getting over 36 mpg in town...wahoo! Honk and wave next time you see me and the tomato whizzing by!
Comments