(Smart)
Smart USA has confirmed it will have a new car in its showrooms starting in late 2011--and that the new car will be sourced from Nissan.
As a part of a wide-ranging cooperation forged earlier this year between Nissan-Renault and Daimler, the companies will share technology and development costs for some vehicle systems. In this case, Nissan will provide an entire vehicle to Smart.
The vehicle likely is a version of the new Nissan Micra, which emerges next year in other world markets. Smart only confirms that it will be a five-door, gasoline-powered, B-segment vehicle.
The smart USA Web site says the new car will be a logical extension of the brand and its existing smart fortwo. "Building on the brand’s commitment to minimal environmental impact, the sporty, fuel-efficient 5-seater will feature all the key attributes you’d expect from a smart while providing additional interior roominess and functionality."
According to smart USA President Jill Lajdziak,“The new vehicle will expand smart USA’s product lineup, offering five-seat capacity while maintaining the core principles of efficiency and conservation.”
Retail sales begin in the fourth quarter of next year.