envmar
01-16-2010, 05:59 PM
Smart GmbH is a Daimler AG subsidiary that was founded in 1994. Smart produces micro and supermini cars out of Germany. The Smart concept began with watch maker Swatch. Swatch wanted a car with a very small footprint both in size and environmental impact. The idea was initially pitched to GM. GM showed no interest so the attempt was made with Volkswagen who were unable to find funds for the project. This opened the door for Daimler-Benz to step in. Smart has had some success but sales started to dwindle in 2006. With 4 billion euros lost from 2003 to 2006 Smart GmbH was liquidated and absorbed into Mercedes-Benz. As of early 2010 there are several smart models to choose from, the smart fortwo coupe, fortwo cabriolet, Brabus coupe and Brabus cabriolet.