French plant takes on smart fortwo electric production

A plant in Hambach, France is to be the location for future series production of the smart fortwo electric drive, it has been revealed.

Daimler AG made the announcement as French President Nicolas Sarkozy made an official visit to the plant.

From next month, approximately 1,000 vehicles are set to be produced at the plant, which will then be sent to those taking part in mobility projects across Europe to prove valuable feedback for future improvements.

It is then hoped that by 2012 the vehicle, which is equipped with the most modern lithium-ion battery, will be ready to roll off the assembly line into full-scale production.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, said: "The smart fortwo electric drive proves that emission-free driving in an urban environment is already feasible today.

"With our decision to locate production here at the parent plant in Hambach, we are setting the course both for series production of electric vehicles and for the future of this highly innovative assembly plant."

Writing in the Times earlier this year, TV executive Dianne Nelmes indicated that an electric smart car could be especially beneficial on London’s roads, especially for those not concerned with driving too fast.