The smart story is one of entrepreneurial vision and daring. It is a story of innovation and proof that to be successful, even the best ideas must be appropriate for their time. At Mercedes-Benz, the roots of an automotive concept designed specifically for urban use reach back to the 1970s. The growing problems of inner-city individual transportation, a parking situation which was becoming ever more critical even then, and increasing environmental awareness spurred by the crises of the early 1970s and 1980s, helped position the smart to breakthrough in the early 1990s. Since 1998, a total of 770,000 customers have purchased the first-generation smart fortwo. And, for many, it has become a part of their individual world views. In 2008, the smart comes to North America where it will be distributed by savvy auto magnate Roger Penske. Over 20,000 U.S. customers have placed advance, online reservations for the diminutive car.
The story of smart is an epic tale of genius, inspiration, hope, disappointment, disaster and ultimate triumph. Funky, stylish and fun, smart is the youngest and most exciting brand of car on the market - and it has revolutionised the way we think about cars and the way we use them.It has put much-needed fun back into driving, and even city motorists smile when they're at the wheel of a smart. But it nearly didn't happen atall. The revolutionary design was the product of the genius who invented the Swatch watch, saving the near-bankrupt Swiss watch industry in the process. But these visionary ideas proved too radical and the tiny two-seater almost died at birth when a succession of backers lost their nerve. The sensational story of smart traces the decade-long history of this ambitious project, talking to key figures from every stage of the programme and building a vivid picture of an idea ahead of its time.
Most young drivers have one goal in mind when they think of getting their own vehicle: freedom. Car ownership is one of life's joys as well as one of its major financial investments. This candid volume offers readers a step-by-step approach for how to choose the best car to suit their needs and how best to plan, research, and budget for the purchase. In today's economically challenging times, students require an opportunity to learn about money management as well as car facts, the choices available, and the importance of safety. Content supports state and national standards on financial literacy.
Is the Smart Car really smart for the environment? What technology makes such a small car safe to drive? Does it use an engine like a regular car? Find out the answers to these questions-and more-in Smart Car! Book jacket.
In Autonorama: The Illusory Promise of High-Tech Driving, historian Peter Norton argues that driverless cars cannot be the safe, sustainable, and inclusive "mobility solutions" that tech companies and automakers are promising us. The salesmanship behind the "driverless future" is distracting us from better ways to get around that we can implement now. Unlike autonomous vehicles, these alternatives are inexpensive, safe, sustainable, and inclusive. Norton takes the reader on an engaging ride--from the GM Futurama exhibit to "smart" highways and vehicles--to show how we are once again being sold car dependency in the guise of mobility. Autonorama is hopeful, advocating for wise, proven, humane mobility that we can invest in now, without waiting for technology that is forever just out of reach.
A step-by-step guide to getting the right car at the best price explores a wide range of available financing options, discussing the buy versus lease alternative, the ins and outs of vehicle pricing, and the negotiation process and dealership experience.
In Smart Cars, readers will be introduced to the engineering concepts behind smart car innovations. From their introduction in the early 1900s to today's electric cars, this book delves into the safety, comfort, style and drivability of these modern-day marvels. The Engineering Wonders series for grades 4–8 explores the ways engineers identify the needs to be met and/or problems to be solved and crated solutions through innovative design. Featuring 48 pages, this series takes a look at a variety of structural, technical, and transportation engineering and their applications
This informative book provides everything your readers will need to know about negotiating the deal, warranties and service contracts, and getting a loan when buying their first car. It offers helpful tips on fuel conservation, buying hybrids, and how to maintain the car. The final chapter discusses smart cars, cycles, scooters, and mopeds (non-car options).
Popular Mechanics inspires, instructs and influences readers to help them master the modern world. Whether it’s practical DIY home-improvement tips, gadgets and digital technology, information on the newest cars or the latest breakthroughs in science -- PM is the ultimate guide to our high-tech lifestyle.