Electric cars seem like a perfect means of transportation in the city, thanks to their zero emissions. The problem is that they are usually priced out of the reach of most customers.Smart claims that its third-generation ForTwo Electric displayed at the Frankfurt Motor Show is not only Eco-friendly, but will also be available at a "customer-friendly" price.The previous electric version of the ForTwo launched in 2009 was available in 18 markets and sold more than 2,000 units. It used a Tesla-sourced lithium-ion battery pack with a constant output of 20 kW (27 HP) and could peak at 30 kW (40 HP), accelerate from zero to 60 km/h (0-37 mph) in 6.5 seconds and top out at 100 km/h (62 mph).
Smart has improved the new ForTwo Electric considerably. Its battery still uses lithium-ion technology, but this time it is a 17.6 kWh unit from Deutsche Accumotive. The electric motor is also more powerful with a 35 kW (47 HP) constant output and a 55 kW (74 HP) peak output, while it accelerates from 0 to 60 km/h (0-37 mph) in 5.0 seconds and can reach a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph).
The pure-electric Fortwo has driving range in excess of 140 km (miles) while thanks to its 130 Nm (95.8 lb-ft) of torque it is more responsive at higher speeds. The battery can be fully charged at a regular household outlet or a charging station in eight hours, and in less than one hour with the optional rapid charge function that features a 22 kW on-board charger.
The new Smart ForTwo Electric will be available in more than 30 markets from next spring and the company expects its sales to reach five-figure numbers. Its price in Germany will be less than €16,000 (US$22,000) but buyers will also have to pay a €60 (US$82.7) monthly fee for battery rental.
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