Smart Fortwo ED (2008) electric CAR review

I doubt that the pollution incurred in building, delivering and disposing of an electric smart is much different to a petrol or diesel powered one. The method of disposal of batteries is a good question and one that the industry will have to face when they bring these to the mass-market. The source of the electricity is of course an important point. In countries like France where the majority of electricity is from nuclear or cities like Vancouver which are hydro-powered, cars like this can make a real difference. In the UK you have Drax, but you also have companies such as Ecotricity which will source from greener sources. Electricity has a number of advantages over other power sources. Firstly, it can be generated by multiple means. Secondly, it can be stored safely. Third, in itself it is non-polluting. In today's world, an electric Smart won't make much of a difference. However if manufacturers continue to improve electric motors and batteries, charge times will decrease and efficiency will increase. I agree that people may drive around in one of these today and think they're saving the planet, but I'm glad that Smart are developing cars like this. Development takes time and the world needs to change.

From an area in the world that supplies much of the worlds coal; I thank you from the bottom of our mines. Long may environmentally conscious people buy this type of vehicle, and help the industries that my company supports prosper. The more coal we burn, the more opportunities I have to burn oil based fuels. A win, win then. (For me at least.)