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A neat new layout that smart is exploring is a variable position centre console. (Photo: smart Canada) |
A neat new layout that smart is exploring is a variable position centre console that extends from the passenger side door to the middle of the cabin. Its first purpose is to act as a locking storage compartment. Its lid, however, features several switches which operate functions on the vehicle. The third purpose, when the console is in its central position, is to offer USB interactivity with devices such as PDAs and MP3 players.
Among any smart car's most appealing attributes, aside from trendy styling and space-efficient design, is minimal fuel consumption. The current fortwo cdi turbodiesel is a champ in this respect, and is the only non-hybrid vehicle on sale in Canada to edge out miserly gasoline-electric hybrids. The crosstown should pose some serious internal competition, however, as it is a hybrid. A full working battery pack and electric motor system has been added to the crosstown increasing performance without taxing the car's economical benefits.
The crosstown started out life as just another design exercise, but evolved into something much bigger. While it's unlikely that the
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smart's dwindling budgets could either mean that this tough-looking city car gets the green light or doesn't even make it off the show stand, depending on priorities. (Photo: smart Canada) |
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