Quote:
Originally Posted by tchanson
It seems to me the latest and last attempt of Daimler Benz to try and salvage some of their massive initial investment with the Swatch debacle by foisting this on the US. Or perhaps Penske thinks he is still that good of a salesman.
Regardless, once you set aside the (a) early adopters (b) cute car fashionistas and (c) Z-man, I struggle to see any practical use for this thing in this market, given its current competition here.
Tim
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There is a big factor that hasn't been really mentioned here- the emotional aspect. Folks just LOVE to upstage each other. Why do you think there are so many MB G-classes and 911 TT's in people's garages?
The smart, with is unique exterior shouts, "LOOK AT ME! LOOK AT ME!" and there are many people who feel that way. I suspect it will be quickly embraced by the 'artsy' folks, as well as those who have money to burn. In today's "smaller is greener" attitude, it is definately the newest, coolest thing on the block. And there are those who just HAVE to have the newest, coolest thing on the block.
Nowadays, the buzz-word is
GREEN. Hybrid technology is old news. In the US, the diesel motors still have a smelly, dirty stigma attached to them. Electric cars aren't quite there just yet, despite Chevy's efforst and the Telsa. The smart car may not be uber-green, but then again, neither are the hybrid cars. But if people want to feel smug, and want the newest out there, the smart will work very well for them.
Will it be more than just a flash in the pan? Only time will tell.
-Z-man.