Santa Barbara Auto Group Explores the History of the smart car Santa Barbara Auto Group shares the history and evolution of the smart car as it progressed from a unique idea to a world-wide phenomenon thanks to the dedication of a few Mercedes-Benz engineers. Over four decades ago a Mercedes-Benz engineer decided to delve into the idea of a car specifically built for the city. Twenty years later, Mercedes-Benz had the demand and momentum to put this plan into action on a large scale. A team of young designers from Southern California were selected to create something new and unique. The quest resulted in an innovative urban vehicle that is sweeping the nation – the smart fortwo. How It First Began When the design team first began, they spent time simply observing city drivers and urban limitations. They studied which situations were difficult for drivers to navigate, what priorities drivers had, who the drivers were, what their purpose was, and more. Then they took these questions and observations and sought to create a vehicle that addressed them all. By 1994 the first smart car was in production. It featured a very compact design that broke many of the automotive conventions and assumptions of the time. One of the biggest differences was the placement of the engine in the rear of the vehicle and the use of a Tridion Safety Cell to provide a higher level of stability, safety, and control. Since that time, the smart car has continued to evolve thanks to the innovative advancements made by the Mercedes-Benz engineering team. Many new safety and design updates have been made to the smart car. For example, the new models feature an updated Tridion safety cell that provides a higher proportion of ultra-high strength steel for added protection. Designed by the Mercedes-Benz engineering team, the updates offer the highest safety standards to date. Each new model continues to increase in power, safety, comfort, and functionality, but always stays true to the original smart identity. The Evolution Continues Drivers now have multiple models to choose from including the smart pure, smart passion, smart prime and smart proxy in addition to the smart electric coupe and smart electric cabriolet. The best way to experience the new smart car models is to drive one in person. Sign up online for a test drive or simply stop in at Santa Barbara Auto Group to learn about the latest technology, entertainment, and safety assist programs also available in the newest smart fortwo models. As the years go by, smart continues to champion efficiency, safety, and an unencumbered urban driving experience. About Santa Barbara Auto Group Santa Barbara Auto Group is located off the 101 and Hope Ave and serves Santa Barbara residents and drivers throughout Southern California as the premium dealer for Acura, Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, and Smart. Every Santa Barbara Auto Group employee is dedicated to providing the highest in sales and service assistance. Santa Barbara Auto Group represents eight different luxury brands and friendly experienced sales representatives are available seven days a week.
Santa Barbara Auto Group Explores the History of the smart car
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