2011 Smart fortwo Electric Drive Rated at 94 MPG by EPA
Recently, the EPA quietly announced the estimated mileage of the 2011 Smart fortwo Electric Drive (ED). Not surprisingly, this all-electric vehicle earned delivers an impressive electricity rating of 94 mpg in the city and 79 mpg on the highway. This means that owners of the two-seater subcompact will earn an equivalent of 87 mpg combined when compared to gas-powered vehicles. Keep reading to learn more about the 2011 Smart fortwo ED and how much it may save you in fuel costs.
Smart fortwo Low Energy Impact Score
Green-conscious car shoppers will be delighted to learn that the fortwo's Lilliputian size isn't the only thing that is diminutive about the vehicle. EPA estimates also suggest the newest Smart car delivers a remarkably small carbon footprint. Estimates suggest that the average electric Smart car driver will consume only 0.4 barrels of petroleum each year. As a comparison, the thrifty hybrid engine of the Toyota Prius requires an average of 6.9 barrels per year to operate.
Of course, all that conserved energy also amounts to energy savings. Estimates suggest the cost in electricity required to drive 25 miles in a Smart ED is a scant $1.07. Extrapolate this figure over an entire year's worth of driving, and the average car owner can expect to pay just $644 in fuel costs. Again, in comparison, the Toyota Prius requires $1.79 per 25 miles and an estimated $1,071 in annual fuel costs.
As a final note on green technology, it should be noted that Smart incorporates a manufacturing process that minimizes pollution and other negative impacts. Additionally, 95 percent of all components used on the Smart fortwo are recyclable.
Smart fortwo Electric Range and Specs
Despite being incredibly efficient, the Smart fortwo isn't for everybody. For one, the vehicle boasts the same size constraints as the current Smart car. This means that there is only room for two passengers and storage space is all but non-existent. That being said, it should be noted that the front seats are fairly roomy and can even accommodate drivers with above-average height.
The electric Smart car offers an estimated range of 63 miles. As a result, most commuters will have no problem getting to and from work on a full charge. Smart indicates that a full charge can be completed in under eight hours via a 220V outlet. The car can also be charged via standard 110V outlet (although required charge time will be more lengthy).
Though Smart promises the fortwo ED delivers highway speeds, previous experiences with Smart cars suggest that most driving is best left to city streets.
Notable Features - 2011 Smart fortwo ED
The Smart fortwo is available in either a coupe or cabriolet (convertible) body style. As a unique advantage, Smart offers interchangeable body parts that allow shoppers to mix and match color combinations. Standard features for the electric car include keyless entry, air conditioning, power accessories and stereo with MP3 player.
Smart fortwo Electric Availability
The 2011 crop of electric Smart cars is fairly minuscule. In fact, Smart currently only plans to make 250 units for the year. However, a more large-scale roll out is expected for the 2012 model year. As such, you may need to wait until the end of the year to get your hands on this new electric vehicle.
If simply can't wait that long, then you should be prepared to pay a monthly lease fee of $599 ($649 for a cabriolet model). This lease contract is good for four years or 40,000 miles and requires a $2,500 upfront signing fee.