After a flying start in 2009, Smart sales are crashing in the United States.
But there's hope for the European microcar brand. An alliance between parent company Daimler AG and Renault/Nissan will yield a new-generation ForTwo and a new four-seat car.
Here's a look at Smart's product plans:
ForTwo: The two-seater gets a mild freshening this fall. It will be replaced in 2013 by a vehicle designed with Renault that also will replace the Renault Twingo in Europe.
ForTwo Electric: An electric car with a battery system designed by California electric-vehicle manufacturer Tesla Motors will be available for lease in eight U.S. markets in October. The 250 cars will have a five-year, $599 monthly lease. Only 50 will be leased to individuals.
In 2012, the ForTwo Electric will get an upgraded interior and switch to lithium ion batteries made by Deutsche Accumotive GmbH, a joint venture between Daimler and Evonik Industries.
ForFour: The four-seater that was killed in 2006 is being revived. It will use a longer version of the new ForTwo platform and have a rear-engine and rear-drive layout. Renault is expected to build the new ForFour alongside its Twingo. It could go on sale in 2014.
