Daimler announced today that starting November 2009, the Smart ForTwo electric-drive will start rolling off the production line at the company’s factory in Hambach, France.
Power comes from a 40-hp electric-motor fitted at the rear with a peak torque of 89 lb-ft. 0 to 37 mph comes in 6.5 seconds with a top speed of 62 mph. The electric-motor gets its energy from a lithium-ion battery that is provided by Tesla Motors. On a full charge, the Smart ForTwo electric-drive can travel an expected range of 75 miles. A quick 3-hour charge will allow for 25 miles of driving.
The new Smart ForTwo electric-drive will be leased to select customers in Europe and the United States during the testing phase. It will be available to the mass-market in 2012.
Source Autoblog
