Smart ForTwo Micro Hybrid Drive The tiny Smart ForTwo two-seat "city car" will be coming to the U.S. next year. The U.S. version will be powered by a 71-horsepower engine. With such a small engine powering such a small car, fuel economy will be a big selling point. A similar European ForTwo will get about 50 miles per gallon, according to Smart. This limited edition hybrid version, shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show for the European market, will get almost 55 miles per gallon. From Smart's description, the Micro Hybrid seems to be what is usually referred to as a "mild hybrid." The engine shuts off when the vehicle stops and automatically restarts when the driver lifts off the brake pedal. The car does not drive under electric power, however.
|  Car companies show off new Euro models and 'green' concept cars. Some could be for sale here soon. (more) |
