smart offers micro hybrid drive fortwo in Europe

According to a Mercedes press release, a new fortwo model, powered by a micro hybrid drive, will be offered in Europe starting in late October.

This model features a start/stop function that uses the engines idling phases. The new model will be available as a coupé and a cabrio in all three lines - pure, pulse and passion. The smart fortwo micro hybrid drive will initially be available as a left-hand-drive ECE version starting at about € 10,500 (US $15,500).

No exhaust emissions, no noise, no petrol consumption - when the engine would normally be combusting fuel unnecessarily when stationary, the new smart fortwo micro hybrid drive switches it right off whenever the driver brakes and the vehicle’s speed falls below 8 km/h (5 mph). As soon as the driver releases the brake pedal, the engine starts automatically and the journey can continue immediately without a noticeable delay