Electric vehicles coming to Indiana

The smart fortwo electric drive will make it its first appearance in Indiana when it is unveiled during an event at smart center Indianapolis next week. Indianapolis is one of only five U.S. launch cities to receive vehicles in smart’s electric car test program, and the all-electric smart car was just introduced in the United States last month. This exclusive event gives local dignitaries and leaders in the transportation electrification movement an exclusive look.

The event will begin with short presentation to “pull the drape” on the smart fortwo electric drive and provide an overview of the test program, followed by one-on-one drives.

The smart fortwo electric drive marks a natural evolution of the smart brand and further defines its environmental leadership as a trendsetter in addressing issues facing urban mobility and conservation. smart USA will begin deploying a fleet of 250 electric drive vehicles for lease across the United States, including Indianapolis, this fall, targeting companies, municipalities, organizations and individuals interested in making a passionate statement on conservation and environmental awareness. This pilot program will provide technology developers with performance experience in different U.S. geographies and climates for the volume production model that begins mass consumer sales in early 2012.

The car is powered by 30 kW drive motor and 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, and it can reach highway speeds with a range of 82 miles on a single charge.

There are more than 40,000 smart owners across the country, and smart USA’s dealership in Indianapolis serves central Indiana.

www.smartusa.com