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smart adds the environmentally friendly mhd to its model range - 5/1/2009 12:00:00 AM

From May 2009 the standard equipment of the 52 kW petrol-engined smart fortwo pure model will include micro hybrid drive (mhd) technology with a user-friendly automatic start-stop system. This reduces the NEDC consumption of the naturally aspirated engine by an average of 8 percent. In city traffic fuel savings of almost 20 percent are possible.

smart is resolutely continuing its philosophy and making the smart fortwo even more environmentally friendly and attractive: further reduced fuel consumption and even more uncomplicated driving pleasure characterises the comfortable two-seater.

52 kW petrol engines with micro hybrid drive (mhd) as standard

The smart micro hybrid drive (mhd) automatic start-stop function has proven itself since 2007 in Europe. To reduce the fuel costs for the smart fortwo, the petrol model with the 52 kW 3-cylinder in-line engine with capacity of 999 cc is now fitted with the start-stop automatic function as standard.



This reduces the consumption in the combined cycle by around eight percent (to 4.3' litres, NEDC). CO2 emissions are reduced from 112 to 103 grams per kilometre.

In urban traffic with frequent stop-and-go situations savings of almost 20 percent are even possible. 7 out of 10 customers in Europe who opt for a petrol engine now drives this environmentally friendly technology.

smart has realised the idea behind the automatic start-stop system in a particularly clever way: the control electronics shut down the engine as soon as the driver brakes and the vehicle's speed falls below 8 km/h – for example when approaching traffic lights.

The engine starts again in the fraction of a second as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal. In this way the fuel consumption is reduced even further. There is no noise pollution when stationary.

The smart fortwo's automated manual transmission is perfectly tuned to the automatic start-stop system. The driver only needs to accelerate and brake – no clutchwork only gear changing is ever needed. This automated manual function of the smart fortwo with mhd technology makes it easier to save fuel and emissions.

Extensive range of standard safety equipment
The most important standard features include the tridion safety cell, front airbags, seat belts with belt tensioners and belt-force limiters and safety seats with integral seat belts. Further features that are unique in the standard specification of vehicles in this class include esp, abs and an integrated brake assist.

Standard specifications for the smart fortwo coupé in the pure design line remain unchanged.
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