after countless side-projects from high-performance Brabus-tuned cars to diesel-electric hybrids, it was only a matter of time before something truly radical, and truly silly would happen.

With a few false starts in the U.S. and a quiet showcase that couldn't sell cars in New York, the launch date is now set for January, 2008. According to SMART USA president the response for the new ForTwo in America has been strong but people question its safety.

The smart fortwo continues its string of successes. Since the end of March 2007, the new model of the innovative two-seater has been purchased by a total of 100,000 customers, representing a sales increase of more than 80 percent. Yesterday afternoon, Ulrich Kowalewski, director of the Mercedes-Benz Center Munich handed over the 100,000th second-generation smart fortwo to a 36-year-old customer in the recently re-opened smart Center Munich.

The Smart fortwo is still Germanys most cost efficient car. This is the conclusion reached by experts from the prestigious market observer EurotaxSchwacke after analysing 16 vehicles in the Mini car class.