While DaimlerChrysler dithers over if, how or when to launch its money-losing Smart brand in the US, independent distributor ZAP said it secured purchase orders worth over $US21,000,000 for its ‘Americanised Smart Car’ during last weekend’s National Auto Dealer Association (NADA) Conference in New Orleans.
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CEO Steve Schneider said the purchase orders that ZAP received during the Smart’s dealer debut exceeded projections – the goal was to collect new orders totalling $20 million to launch its distribution plans for the Smart Car.
The public company based in Northern California plans to establish a nationwide dealer network that caters to fuel-efficient car buyers.
“We are pleased that we exceeded our sales goal,” said Schneider. “Dealers were anticipating ZAP’s presence at the show with the Smart Car and came prepared to place orders. Others saw the car for the first time and signed on the spot. We expect to fulfill the current orders throughout the coming year as the Company and its joint venture partner Smart-Auto, LLC continue the preparation of securing its inventory supply and converting the European model to meet US guidelines.
“ZAP is the only company offering micro-cars in the United States that has received full compliance certification from the EPA and the Department of Transportation.”
ZAP now has US-compliant Smart Cars available for sale and is hosting media demonstrations in the Los Angeles area.
However, the Smart Car needs to undergo testing to meet the stricter California emissions standards, followed by New York, Maine, Massachusetts and Vermont (which apply the same standards), before it can be sold in these states.
Schneider said rising petrol prices and concerns over the environment and the economy are driving up demand for fuel-efficient cars.
ZAP added that European testing and news reports suggest that the economy of the petrol-powered Smart Car exceeds that of hybrids now on the market in the US.
“The car has become a legend here in the US as tourists have brought back stories of seeing the stylish, micro-car in Europe,” ZAP said, adding that it has received 9,000 consumer purchase inquiries on its website.
