ISSUE 31 - 2015
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
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4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
Welcome Welcome to the latest issue of ‘4site smart magazine, still the world’s only hard copy, regularly produced magazine for smart car owners and enthusiasts around the world.
Al Young Editor, Chairman & Managing Director thesmartclub ltd thesmartclub ltd. 1 Corbiehill Park Edinburgh EH4 5EQ UK Tel: +44 (0) 8452 990332
In this quarter’s issue of ‘4site: Event Review Smart times 2015 in Budapest, Hungary
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Beaulieu 2015
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News from smart The smart way to Disturb London
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Summer in the city: The new smart fortwo cabrio
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smart times 2015 in Budapest 2,476 smart fans in the Hungarian capital
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World premiere for the Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo – Japanese premieres for the GLE and smart
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In addition, it’s been a great year for the 4twocup series of races and you can find a complete review of al the year’s results in this issue.
Automotive fascination and innovative power: Mercedes-Benz continues on road to success
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IMPORTANTLY, as we move into 2015, thesmartclub is completely changing its shape, style and reach moving forwards. After 15 years of continued growth and expansion of services, we are very aware of the changing basis of smart car ownership. This includes the need for a wider and coordinated UK focus and to meet the needs of new and existing smart customers, wherever they are in the UK to participate in the many local clubs and interest groups in their area.
Ideal for dogs: smart forfour with readyspace seats
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Mercedes-Benz and smart at Auto Guangzhou 2015: Product offensive in the Pearl River Delta
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Regular Local Meetings
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thesmartclub Shop
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Rally roadster Geneva to Barcelona Endurance Rally - 2015
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We’re approaching the close of 2015 and it’s been wonderful to have some great events on a local, national and international basis throughout the year. It was particularly good to have us back at smartville in Hambach and witness the last production of the 451 whilst also seeing the parallel production of the new 453 fortwo models.
To support this, we’ll be completely changing our online services platform, 4site smart magazine will be come a wider UK focussed magazine containing event and local information from your local smart clubs and local smart groups and we’ll be ensuring that, for example at smarttimes 2016, there will be a solid and very visible UK presence rather than the more ‘corporate’ presence of thesmartclub ltd. In addition, thesmartclub will share the latest news, information and technical assistance form smart UK and smart in Stuttgart for the benefit of you (our Readers) and equally to the many local groups and clubs around the UK. This will be particularly beneficial for all the customers joining thesmartclub from the UK smart Retailer initiative where such Customers can immediately benefit from their local area meetings and events. 2016 promises to be a magnificent year for all smart owners and enthusiasts and thesmartclub, with 4site smart magazine, will ensure that you are best placed to benefit from the changes, meetings, events and smart offers!
Technical Information smart towing
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Dealership News smart arrives in Ascot
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Outstanding deals at smart of Edinburgh 26 helpmysmart
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4two Cup The 4twocup Review - 2015
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Crossblade Event 2015
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Advertisers bob! Bounce Off Bumper Protector JCMotorhomes S2Smarts smart Insurance smart of Wolverhamption
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Thank you for your continued support Al Young Chairman & Managing Director thesmartclub ltd
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
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Event Review
Smart times 2015 in Budapest, Hungary
Following on from the enormously successful smart times event last year in Cascais, Portugal, the mega festival for smart car owners and enthusiasts from around the world came to Budapest, Hungary. This year’s event, celebrating 15 years of smart times, formally started on Friday 28th August although, for those arriving earlier in the week, a range of tours and activities had been arranged commencing with tours around the local area and attractions. The main stage and event area for smart times was set in the heart of Budapest, right next to Heroes’ Square.
Whilst some clubs base din Continental Europe arrived in vans loaded with decorations and promotional material, all the UK participants had driven to the event from the UK in their smarts or had flown to Budapest and hired a car – as such, the ability for us to furnish our marquee with a significant amount of UK related decoration was a tad limited but, the British are well known for their creative ingenuity! Within the space of 24 hours, we had Union Flags surrounding the marquee, tables had been acquired and a trip to a local supermarket ensured that we could provide visitors with a welcoming glass of wine and a few nibbles. We’d also wanted to provide people with a little memento of the UK presence and what’s more British than a good cup of tea? We’d previously prepared and packed hundreds of specially branded tea bags into our luggage for the weekend!
A total of 2476 smart enthusiasts attended and, with enormous parking areas set next to the main event area, there was no issue ensuring that participants could park and immediately walk straight into the ‘party’. At one end of the event area was the main stage in front of seating and table space throughout the day. At each side of the venue a number of marquees had been positioned housing a small number of smart clubs, including thesmartclub, smart club Hungary and smart Club Latvia. This smart club area proved hugely popular as a meeting point for clubs to meet clubs (and shelter from the baking hot temperatures during the day).
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The UK participants did a fantastic job with everyone pulling together helping set up the flags, Ian Weir kindly lent us his amazing crossblade to place on display in the marquee and everyone else did a fantastic job handing out tea bags keeping the UK presence alive.
4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
Friday also saw an innovative ‘smartxchange’ on stage where an interactive session took place between smart enthusiasts and smart experts who offered, not only answers to key questions, but an insight into the world of smart ‘behind the scenes’. In addition to a great opening ceremony on the Friday night, there was a night tour around the city and along the Danube involving hundreds of smart cars prior to preparing for the traditional ‘corso’ run on the Saturday, the competition results across a range of categories and, of course the party Saturday night where the venue for smart times 2016 would be announced.
As Saturday dawned, the start for this year’s ‘corso’ run was located outside of the city at the famous Hungaroring race circuit. Not only did this provide a superb venue for gathering over 1200 smart cars, the organisers also offered a choice of either a ‘conventional’ or ‘fast’ lap around the circuit upon arrival prior to lining up for the start of the tour. The arrival and line up started from 10:00hrs and continued right up until 14:00hrs when the cars set off out the circuit. Until that point, there was a wonderful opportunity to walk amongst the cars and, from the vantage point of the exclusive ‘Formula 1 Paddock Club’ area to which everyone had access, we could take some great pictures of the line up as well as have lunch before the start. The route for the corso run would take in the best of Budapest – a drive along the side of the Danube, past the very front of the government buildings and palace, into the hills to overlook the city and then back up the main approach to Heroes Square prior to arrival back at the smart times venue itself around 3 hours later.
There’s no doubt that taking over 1200 cars through a city at any time of day is a logistical challenge the majority would shy away from but, the organisers, local authorities and police had put in place a great plan. It saw roads totally closed for us, no delays and, most fun of all in a manner similar to a presidential convoy, a run straight through all red traffic lights with police stopping everything and anything that was not a smart to ensure a seamless corso from start to finish – as well as providing some great photo opportunities along the way.
In the evening, and prior to the announcement of venue for smart times 2016, the results of the various categories for the smart car competitions were announced. We were delighted to see that Colin Hyams won an award for Tuning and Performance (modified) for his 1999 BRABUS 450 WIDESTAR and to Ione Saunders for scoring 53 points in the Design & Aesthetics Category. Finally, we built up to the 2016 announcement. As some of our readers will recall, there had been significant presentations at the 2013 smart times event in Antwerp, Belgium by potential candidate countries including the UK, Austria (Vienna) and Germany (Hamburg). After some build up, the announcement was made that the 2016 smart times event will take place in Hamburg Germany and you can be sure that there will be a significant UK presence next year. thesmartclub will be liaising closely with the organisers over the coming months such that feedback and input helps shape the 2016 event to be even more successful whilst equally helping ensure that the UK presence will ‘huge’. Meantime, our thanks to everyone who helped out at Budapest, congratulations to the competition winners, our thanks to all our friends from the other participating clubs, the ‘regular’ international friends we all see (perhaps only once a year) at these events – it’s so special catching up and, of course, to the organisers, smart and Dr Annette Winkler for her endless energy, enthusiasm and genuine support for the smart community.
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
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Event Review
Beaulieu 2015
Grey skies didn’t deter the owners of over 120 Smart cars, who drove into the Beaulieu parkland on Sunday 8th November to take part in the fifth annual Simply Smart rally. All Smart car owners were invited to join the celebration of these innovative small cars, with the opportunity to park up in the grounds of the National Motor Museum, catch up with other likeminded enthusiasts and enjoy all of the features of the Beaulieu attraction. The much-loved fortwo, the sporty Roadster and the practical forfour were all well represented in the rally line-up, while no less than two examples of the limited edition Smart Crossblade were also on display, fascinating visitors with their distinctive styling and minimalist bodywork. The assembled cars were painted in a variety of Smart factory colours and custom paint finishes, ensuring that Simply Smart, the last event in Beaulieu’s 2015 calendar of Simply rallies, was a colourful affair. Traditionally, Simply Smart is held on Remembrance Sunday, with Beaulieu visitors joining Smart owners in observing two minutes’ silence at 11am. During the day, visitors could vote for their favourite car of the rally in the People’s Choice Award. The winner was Naomi Cole from Rochester, with her immaculate 2003 Smart Roadster. Naomi had driven from Kent to take part in the rally, accompanied by fellow members of the East Kent Smarties owners’ group. “We really enjoyed the rally, although I was up at 6am to wash the car before we set off, which some people thought was crazy,” said Naomi. “I am passionate about driving and looking after my Roadster, and it has had an awful lot of use in the seven years that I’ve owned it.” Naomi was awarded with a Beaulieu trophy, before leading a cavalcade of the most popular cars through the attraction grounds. For details on Beaulieu’s 2016 calendar of Simply rallies, visit www.beaulieu.co.uk/events. Article courtesy of Beaulieu Motor Museum Pictures courtesy of Naomi Cole
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4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
News from smart
The smart way to Disturb London smart, the iconic car brand, has teamed up with Disturbing London, the entertainment lifestyle company which manages artists such as Tinie Tempah, Sasha Keable, Melissa Steel and Wiz Kid, to make a series of five minidocumentary style films showing how practical, versatile and easy to drive the smart forfour is.
The collaboration has put smart’s spacious four-seater, the smart forfour, at the heart of Disturbing London’s summer activities and the films give an intimate, behind the scenes glimpse into the company, including music, parties, festivals and fashion. Today is the release of smart Disturbs Your Commute, with UK rap artist, Tinie Tempah, picking up Radio 1 DJ and TV presenter, Greg James, from home and taking him to work, showing just how much fun a smart can be on the daily commute, especially in London. The other episodes include smart Disturbs Ibiza; Disturbing London took a smart forfour to the holiday island to be the perfect vehicle to support Tinie Tempah and his team when they held their sold-out weekly pool party “Disturbing Ibiza”. In smart Disturbs Festivals, the smart forfour was used by DJ Charlesey to transport his equipment to summer festivals all over the UK, showing that despite its compact dimensions the interior of the car is surprisingly spacious.
All the films can be seen on uk.smart.com/disturbs. Krishan Bodhani, Head of smart UK, said: “The smart collaboration with Disturbing London has been a very natural partnership between two brands which are both on an exciting journey - it perfectly defines what smart is about. smart was originally known for the iconic two-seater smart fortwo, but now there’s the smart forfour, providing everything our customers expect from a smart, but with added practicality and rear seats.” Dumi Oburota, CEO of Disturbing London, added: “At Disturbing London we always try to disturb the creative landscapes in which we work; whether that’s music or fashion. It made total sense for us to work with smart this summer as the brand has such a cool thing going on. smart has always known what smart is about, never tried to compete with anyone else and always stayed in its own lane.”
smart’s stylish good looks made sure the car was completely at home during June’s London Collections Men in the episode smart Disturbs Fashion when Tinie Tempah and his manager Dumi Oburota, founder of Disturbing London, arrived at some of the coolest catwalk shows in a smart forfour. The pair also took advantage of the smart fortwo, smart’s agile two-seater car. At just 2.69 metres long, it still attracted a lot of attention when it made an appearance at London Collections Men. The full #smartdisturbsLDN documentary about the collaboration was shown for the first time at an exclusive event on Thursday, 15 October in Shoreditch Studios, London.
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
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News from smart
Summer in the city: The new smart fortwo cabrio Stuttgart. The countdown has started for the new fortwo cabrio, a particularly iconic variant of the new model series. The open-top two-seater will have its world premiere in September at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt. The new smart cabrio will be available for ordering from mid-November and the first models will reach dealers in February 2016. Three cars in one: at the touch of a button the new smart cabrio is transformed from a closed two-seater into a car with a large sliding canvas sunroof, or a fully fledged cabriolet with the soft top completely open. This enables the fresh air driving experience to be adapted to the weather or the driver’s mood. This flexibility offered by the “tritop” folding soft top and the removable roof bars is a special feature – and not just in this segment. At the same time, the new smart cabrio is the only true cabriolet in its vehicle class. “Our new smart cabrio really exudes joie de vivre in the city – which is what our brand stands for”, says Dr Annette Winkler, Head of smart. “I am sure that we will delight our present 220,000 cabrio customers and win lots of new fans with this successful lifestyle icon.” The new smart cabrio (length/width/height: 2.69/1.66/1.55 m) is clearly recognisable as a member of the new smart generation. The third model also embodies the smart design philosophy of FUN.ctional design, defined by two poles - the heart and mind. The design idiom is clear, purist and very progressive. This includes the typical silhouette with ultra-short overhangs, the clear lines, shapes and surfaces and, of course, the tridion safety cell. With the grille in a fading honeycomb design and the rhombic headlamps, the face is unmistakably smart. The B-pillar is narrower than on the closed variant and the styling of the tridion safety cell is more progressive, giving the smart fortwo cabrio an even sportier and more forward-focused look. Prospective customers can choose between three different colours for the “tritop” fabric soft top: blue denim (jeans look), red or black. The headlining is always grey. The removable roof bars that can be stowed in a compartment in the tailgate come in the tridion colour.
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4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
Soft top: opens within twelve seconds When the sun peeps out from behind the clouds, smart fortwo cabrio drivers can react quickly: the fabric soft top can be opened fully automatically in twelve seconds – even when driving at top speed. With the 3-button key the soft top can also be opened from outside the car by remote control. Removing the side roof bars enables a full-blown cabrio experience. The roof bars can be stowed on the inside of the tailgate. This stowage compartment in the tailgate also offers additional stowage space for small items, for example fluorescent jacket, first-aid kit or warning triangle. With an area of 1.8 m2 the “tritop” fabric soft top is approximately four percent larger than its predecessor. The outer covering is made of a particularly lightfast polyacrylic fabric and the inside features a polyester/cotton mix. There is a rubber layer in the middle. The soft top has a total thickness of 20 mm. The rear windscreen is heated and is made of glass.
Safety: occupant protection space validated in roof-drop test The new smart fortwo cabrio is the most rigid smart cabrio ever. The torsional strength has been improved by around 15 percent compared with the predecessor. The material mix comprises a high proportion of ultra-high strength hot-formed steels and maximum-strength multiphase steels. In addition, the cabrio has been specifically reinforced in decisive places in comparison to the coupé. The modifications include a large steel cross under the vehicle, two torsional bulkheads under the vehicle at the front and rear and an inner tube in the A-pillars made of high strength hot-formed steel. As well as meeting the requirements of mandatory crash tests, the new smart fortwo cabrio – with a safety concept that includes the tridion safety cell typical of the brand for efficient energy absorption – also passes additional Mercedes-Benz crash tests that often have much stricter requirements. This includes the “roof-drop” test. Here the body falls at a slight angle from a height of 50 centimetres onto the roof structure and the vehicle hits one of the two A-pillars. Advanced assistance systems which were previously the reserve of higher classes of vehicle help to prevent accidents. These include the latest-generation ESP® with Crosswind Assist and hill start assist (standard), forward collision warning (option) and Lane Keeping Assist (option).
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
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News from smart
Summer in the city: The new smart fortwo cabrio continued... Endurance testing: extensive testing in laboratories and on the road The testing programme for open-top vehicles from MercedesBenz Cars is extensive – and identical for all models: The new smart fortwo cabrio was therefore subjected to the same rigorous tests as, for example, the S-Class Cabriolet from Mercedes-Benz. For example, in an endurance test the opening and closing of the soft top was simulated over the whole vehicle life cycle. As well as this component test, which comprises 20,000 cycles, the soft top and the soft top mechanism must also prove themselves in the climatic chamber. Because perfect functioning must also be ensured at temperatures between –15 and +80 degrees centigrade. In addition, an “abuse test” is performed at – Model versions: two engines, two transmissions, three lines The new cabrio will initially be available with two state-ofthe-art three-cylinder engines rated at 52 kW/71 hp and 66 kW/90 hp. Both engines can be combined with the five-speed manual transmission or the fully automatic twinamic dual clutch transmission. Needless to say, the smart fortwo cabrio has the agility typical of the brand – at 6.95 m (from kerb to kerb) and 7.30 m (from wall to wall) turning manoeuvres are extremely simple. In addition to the three lines passion, prime and proxy, customers can choose from a large range of safety and comfort features – including the new features added in the latest facelift such as smartphone integration with MirrorLink® (standard in combination with the smart Media-System) or the Urban Style package (including black wheel arch linings and lowering kit). The high-quality and charming interior of the smart fortwo cabrio corresponds to that of the closed variant with standard features including two sun visors with make-up mirrors, a centre console with drawer and coat hooks at the rear on the crossbar. A wind deflector is optionally available. The interior styling is sure to delight and is characterised by a “dynamic loop” as a signature feature throughout the interior - emotional sweeping lines which feature on the dashboard and doors, for example. The new models at a glance: smart fortwo cabrio
52 kW
66 kW
Number of cylinders/ arrangement
3/R
3/R
Displacement (cc)
999
898
Rated output (kW/hp)
52/71
66/90
at rpm
6000
5500 (6200)
Rated torque (Nm)
91
135
at rpm
2850
2500
Combined fuel consumption (l/100 km)
4,3 (4,3)
4.3 (4.2)
Combined CO2 emissions (g/km)
99 (99)
99 (97)
Efficiency class
C (B)
B (B)
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s)
14.9 (15.5)
10.8 (11.7)
Maximum speed (km/h)
151 (151)
155 (155)
40 degrees centigrade with a completely iced roof: in this case overload protection protects the motor of the soft top drive. The car wash test ensures that smart cabrio passengers always stay dry. At 500 cycles, the requirements correspond to those for the coupé. In addition to this testing in the development phase, every single smart cabrio is also tested for leak-proofness: at the end of the production at the Hambach plant every vehicle is sprinkled with a standardised amount of water for seven minutes. The developers tested the maintenance of a draught-free interior in the Mercedes-Benz wind tunnel with the help of the dummy “Tanja”. She is fitted with a total of 16 speed sensors on her neck and arms which allow the flow speeds of the wind in the interior to be measured. In addition, there is extensive overall vehicle testing on testing grounds and roads of different quality around the world. smart cabrio: a car with cult character for 15 years At the International Motor Show in Frankfurt in 1999 smart surprised the world public with a number of new model studies. A cabrio version was presented that was based on the smart city-coupé. This model opened a whole new dimension to the “closed” micro car community by opening up the roof. The smart cabrio offers pure joie de vivre. From the spring of 2000 the world’s smallest production cabriolet rolled off the production line and onto European roads. Since the first model change in 2006 the soft top has been fully automatic. For the third generation available from 2010 new soft top colours in red and blue expanded the range of colours. But this is not the only model in the history of smart to offer a fresh air driving experience. A special vehicle variant that was launched on the market in 2002 offered a true open sky feeling: the smart crossblade. It had no doors, no roof and no windscreen. Its drivers were able drive through the countryside under open skies with the wind in their face for an incomparable driving experience. A narrow, tinted wind deflector was all that was stretched across the cockpit area to reduce the headwind. A year later smart decided to introduce a small series of the vehicle onto the market.
Figures for vehicles with twinamic in brackets.
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4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
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News from smart
smart times 2015 in Budapest 2,476 smart fans in the Hungarian capital
Stuttgart/Budapest. On 28 and 29 August 2015 2,476 smart fans from around the world came together in the Hungarian city of Budapest for this year’s smart times. Historic Heroes’ Square in the city centre was the venue for the 15th anniversary of the world’s largest international gathering of smart fans. For the first time the smart times participants had an opportunity to tour the city on the Danube by night. A total of 1,207 vehicles participated in the final parade on the Hungaroring and through the city. The new smart fortwo cabrio was a special highlight, on show before its presentation at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September. smartxchange discussions with smart experts When the event kicked off on 28 August the participants were able to enjoy all the different items on the agenda. The smart Club Village celebrated its premiere as a tent village for the best known smart clubs worldwide and formed the setting for the individual stations and stands on the extensive site. smartxchange was presented as a new interactive format for direct communication with smart fans. For the first time questions could be put to smart experts on the stage who offered interesting insights into the world of smart behind the scenes. Exhibitors from across Europe, concerts with local bands and further stage shows made for a varied programme. As in previous years, the service truck as smart’s own mobile workshop was the central point of contact for smart fan vehicles. Test drives with the new smart models rounded off the smart brand experience in the Club Village.
Pit stop on Hungaroring The best known highlight of smart times is the parade formed by smart fans in their own vehicles. It set off on Saturday, 29 August on the famous Hungaroring and led the convoy totalling 1,207 vehicles along the banks of the Danube back to the Heroes’ Square venue. In the evening the traditional smart times contest was held where the spectators voted for their favourites from among the fan vehicles. The event ended with the eagerly awaited announcement of the venue for the next smart times in 2016 – and the winner is Hamburg!
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4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
Facts & figures - smart times 14 17-19 July 2014 in Cascais, Portugal 2380 attendees from 31 different nations 1427 smarts in the parade
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
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News from smart
World premiere for the Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo – Japanese premieres for the GLE and smart
Tokyo. New models, new drives and new ideas for urban mobility in megacities: Mercedes-Benz and smart are staging a rich celebration of innovation at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show. One of the highlights of the show is the world premiere of the Vision Tokyo design show car. The “urban transformer” embodies another trailblazing space concept from Mercedes-Benz which reflects the brand’s growing appeal to a younger clientele. Also celebrating its market premiere in Japan is a model which was presented in the spring: the Mercedes-Benz GLE. The successor to the globally successful M-Class is being launched in a market in which Mercedes-Benz reported continuing dynamic growth in 2015. Counter to the current downward trend in Japan (-7.1 %), since the beginning of the year Mercedes-Benz’s sales have risen by 13.3 percent compared with the corresponding period last year, thereby clocking up the highest number of registrations among all premium import brands. Following on from the successful launch of the new smart generation in Europe, China and the USA, the stage is now set for the debut of the perfect city car in Japan, too, with the joint market premiere in Tokyo of the new smart fortwo and forfour. “Mercedes-Benz’s sustained success in Japan is based first and foremost on our attractive and diverse product portfolio,” observes Kintaro Ueno, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Japan, Co. Ltd. “At present we are able to offer our customers 26 model series and 123 variants – the perfect foundation for further growth. Mercedes-AMG has long been an integral part of our success. Japan is among the top five markets worldwide for the unique vehicles from our high-performance and sports car brand.” Mercedes-Benz is continuing to make its mark with new products in Japan. At the Tokyo Motor Show it is presenting the new GLE as a fitting continuation of the strategic product initiative in the year of the SUV. Mercedes-Benz has thoroughly revised its best-seller in the SUV segment. The highlights of the new GLE include considerably more appealing front and tail ends and extensive measures which make new benchmarks with regard to emissions and drive system possible. Across the available engine range, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are reduced by 17 percent on average compared with the preceding series. For the first time in its SUV history, Mercedes-Benz offers a plug-in hybrid model, the GLE 500 e 4MATIC, which combines maximum efficiency with outstanding performance. The new top-of-the-range V8 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 4MATIC is now stronger and more appealing than ever, with an expanded model line-up and even more power. Mercedes-Benz is underscoring its leading role in the field of drive systems with innovative and clean BlueTec diesel engines, a diesel hybrid and also plug-in hybrid models which will be available on the Japanese market in the new year. smart fortwo and forfour: champions of urban mobility The new smart generation is already successfully established in Europe, China and the USA. The stage is now set for the city car’s debut in Japan, as well: the smart will be in the spotlight at the Tokyo Motor Show in the guise of the fortwo and the forfour. “Tokyo is the world’s largest urban centre - the blueprint for all megacities around the globe,” notes smart boss Dr Annette Winkler. “As such, Tokyo is the perfect place to discover the strengths of the smart as the perfect city car.” In urban conurbations subject to ever denser traffic and ever more strictly regulated parking amenities, the smart fortwo’s special strengths – ultra-compact dimensions, unbeatably small turning circle, great agility – really come into their own. With its equally pronounced manoeuvrability, the now even more flexible smart forfour is also an excellent choice for the city. The smart among the four-seaters features intelligent charging management, for example. As champions of urban mobility, both smart models boast more functionality, more safety and more comfort than ever before.
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4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
News from smart
Automotive fascination and innovative power: Mercedes-Benz continues on road to success
Frankfurt. Mercedes-Benz is setting benchmarks in automotive fascination and innovative power with five world premieres at the IAA 2015. No fewer than four new models expand the line-up of Mercedes Dream Cars – the new C-Class Coupé and the new S-Class Cabriolet, each in two standalone versions from Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG. Also making its debut in Frankfurt is the Concept Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile, known in short as the Concept IAA. The “Digital Transformer” shows how far advanced Mercedes-Benz already is in the digitalisation of automotive development and production. Another world premiere at the Frankfurt International Motor Show is the new smart cabrio, the only “true” cabriolet in its class. IAA 2015 leaves us in no doubt – the automotive industry is changing fundamentally and the driver of this development is called “digitalisation”. Mercedes-Benz is setting the pace in this transition. “The Concept IAA shows that the real and the virtual world are merging more and more at Mercedes-Benz,” said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, speaking at the start of the Mercedes-Benz and smart press conference at the IAA. The pace of technical development is rising. “Never before have we developed a vehicle concept as quickly as our Concept IAA,” Zetsche continued. “What previously took up to one and a half years, we managed in less than 10 months thanks to digitalisation.” smart cabrio – the joy of city life Also offering individual open-air driving fun is the new smart fortwo cabrio – a variant of the new model range that is also celebrating its world premiere at the IAA. The new cabriolet is a master of the quick change – at the push of a button, it switches from closed twoseater to a car with a large folding sunroof and, finally, to a cabriolet with a completely open top. It easily adapts the enjoyment of the open air to suit weather, mood and personal preference. Individualisation is a major smart strength – one reason for the success of BRABUS tailor made. The wide-ranging individualisation programme is now established across Europe as well as in the USA and China. smart BRABUS tailor made is also now available for the new smart generation. Dr. Annette Winkler, Head of smart: “I am certain our new smart cabriolet will be a huge hit with all smart fans. And it will win new customers for us, too, because it is both the most inexpensive cabriolet in the world and, at the same time, the most exclusive way to drive a smart.”
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
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smart of Wolverhampton
Our friends at Drayton Group smart of West Midlands have some great end of year offers on the new smart fortwo with 0% finance available, plus a complimentary vehicle health check & wash/vac PLUS a chance to win an iPad when you take an extended test drive. And every new & used car purchased from a Drayton Group dealership qualifies for One Year’s complimentary membership of thesmartclub. (Terms & conditions apply - contact Retailer for more information)
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4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
FOR CITY SLICKERS.
THE NEW SMART GENERATION OFFERS. PERSONAL USER OFFERS smart fortwo passion 71 hp manual metallic* 36 monthly payments of £139 per month smart fortwo prime 71 hp manual
36 monthly payments of £149 per month
PERSONAL USER OFFERS
PERSONAL USER OFFERS smart forfour passion 71 hp manual 36 monthly payments of £149 per month smart forfour prime 71 hp manual 36 monthly payments of £159 per month
Representative example for a smart fortwo passion 71 hp manual Metallic* 36 Monthly Payments of £139.00
On the Road Price £11,420.00
Customer Deposit £1,687.76
Retailer Deposit Contribution £500.00
Total Deposit £2,187.76
Duration of Agreement 36 Months
Optional Final Payment £5,450.00
Credit Total Amount Amount Acceptance of Fee Payable Credit £140.00 £9,232.24 £12,876.76
Purchase Activation Fee £95.00
Fixed Interest Rate 5.47%
APR Representative 6.9%
Drayton Group
Smart of Wolverhampton Penn Road, Wolverhampton WV2 4HD 01902 276 961
www.draytongroup.co.uk
Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the smart range: urban 55.4(5.1)-58.9(4.8), extra urban 72.4(3.9)-76.4(3.7), combined 65.7(4.3)-68.9(4.1). CO2 emissions 99-93 g/km. *Annual mileage for the smart fortwo passion 71 hp is 10,000 miles. Credit Acceptance Fee payable with first payment. Finance based on a 3 year PCP at 10,000 miles per annum. Finance isIssue subject to approval and vehicles must be credit approved and ordered between 01.01.2015 and 31.03.2015 and registered before 30.06.2015, subject to 31credit - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk 17 availability. Excess mileage charges apply. Amount of retailer deposit contribution dependent on model. Finance available from Mercedes-Benz Financial smart – A Daimler Brand. Services UK Ltd, MK7 8ND. Model images shown for demonstration purposes only. Finance subject to status. Guarantees and indemnities may be required.
Regular Local Meetings
Although thesmartclub is represented in multiple countries around the world, we are aware of a number of ‘local’ regular smart related meetings that take place in the UK. The meetings we currently have in our Events’ Diary are shown below and the map provides you a quick overview of ‘what’s on where’.
1 Baldock (North Herts & Central Beds) Smart Meet Meet 2nd Tuesday of every month from 7.30 pm. The George IV, Baldock, London Road, Baldock, Hertfordshire. SG7 6LZ 2 East Kent Smarties Meet 2nd Wednesday of each month from 7.30pm. Dukes Head, Main Road, Sellindge, Kent, TN25 6EG 3
3 NW Smarties Meet Meet 1st Thursday of each month 7.00 pm. Barley Farm Inn, Stadium Way, Eccles, Manchester. M30 7EY
1 4
2
4 Sussex Smarts Sunday Breakfast
Breakfast meet every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month from 10.00 am.
The Chalet Cafe, Henfield Road, Cowfold, West Sussex. RH13 8DU (approximately half mile south of Cowfold on A281)
Please note that as many of the above meetings are outside of the direct control of thesmartclub, details and dates may change.
If you regularly meet with a group of local smart owners and enthusiasts and you would like your meeting included in our future listings, please email: events.team@thesmartclub.com or telephone us on +44 (0) 8452 990332 with details for inclusion in the next issue of our ‘4site’ magazine. For LATEST information and location details always check the ‘Diary’ link in our Online Forum (www.thesmartclub.com)
thesmartclub Shop
thesmartclub has launched a whole new range of branded clothing for Members and non-Members of thesmartclub. In previous years we had a limited range of products but now we are pleased to bring you clothing and clothing accessories across a wide range of products. Many of the products offer you colour choices plus, of course, a wide range of sizes across the clothing range. What makes the new range even more exciting is the option to personalise the majority of clothing items with up to 20 characters of your choice under the logo. So, for example, you may simply wish your name embroidered under our logo or include the name of your local meeting or event. It only costs £2.50 for this feature and represents great value and superb personalisation. The range of products now available ranges from a simple branded ‘ripper wallet’ through a full range of T-shirts, polo shirts, caps, fleeces, rugby shirts, lightweight outdoor jackets and full ‘heavy duty’ outdoor clothing. Members of thesmartclub also benefit from an automatic and superb 7.5% discount across our entire product range simply by selecting the Member Shop link on our homepage or, for our ‘offline Members’, by phoning thesmartclub and quoting your Membership number. 18
4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
You and your smart
We really want to hear from you if you have a special story about your car whether it’s a special car by way of modification or simply a standard car that is special to you in some way.
NEW We understand that you may have a story to tell but the last thing you want to do is sit down in front of your computer and type up some text. So this year we’re making it even easier – as well as having the options to email or post us your story, you can now do it by phone! Just let us know a good number to call you on and we’ll have a chat with you – that will then form the basis of a printed story that you can preview and approve prior to publication.
No typing and you still get your story and pictures in 4site! With a truly international audience, ‘4site’ provides you with an ideal additional channel to tell smart owners and enthusiasts about your ‘smart’ filled holiday, vacation, modifications, tours, competitions and ‘smart’ lifestyle. We make it easy for you to submit articles to us, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. We’ll acknowledge all submissions received and advise you when/if your article is being included. Just let us know a good number to call you on and we’ll have a chat with you – that will then form the basis of a printed story that you can preview and approve prior to publication.
You can submit articles directly to us via a dedicated page on our web site.
You can email articles, images and graphics to us any time, any day.
Visit www.thesmartclub.com and select the ‘News & Events’ menu option, then ‘4site Magazine’.
Your text can be created in an email, pasted into an email or sent to us in any file format.
You can type your text directly into the page we provide or paste text you have created elsewhere.
Emails should sent to: 4site@thesmartclub.com
We understand that not everyone has access to the internet or email services. You can send us typed or handwritten letters along with any pictures* and we’ll transcribe your text. Letters should be sent to:
Click ‘SUBMIT’ and you’re done!
‘4site’ magazine thesmartclub ltd Corbiehill Park Edinburgh EH4 5EQ UK
Or you can phone us on +44 (0) 8452 990332
‘4site’ magazine
‘4site’ is an independent quarterly magazine produced, published and distributed by thesmartclub ltd. The magazine is not for resale or commercial redistribution. All content © thesmartclub 2015 and global Daimler media © 2015 Daimler AG. All rights reserved. The submit button © Kiankhoon, email image © Tomislav Stajduhar, party people image Poznyakov, girl writing © Showface | Dreamstime.com. Design and layout by Oliver Whittaker. thesmartclub is a brand of thesmartclub ltd, Company number SC259434, registered in Scotland, UK. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information given herein is accurate, no legal responsibility is accepted by thesmartclub ltd nor its associated third party companies for any errors, omissions or misleading statements. Views expressed in ‘4site’ are not necessarily those of thesmartclub ltd. We gratefully acknowledge the support of the firms whose advertisements appear within this publication however thesmartclub ltd cannot accept responsibility for the offers made by the advertisers even when making specific offers to Members of thesmartclub ltd. * Note that any pictures posted to us cannot be returned. Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
19
News from smart
Ideal for dogs: smart forfour with readyspace seats
Böblingen. Man’s best friend: 9.5 million Germans own one or even two dogs. But travelling by car together – like now in the holiday season – can be fraught with difficulties. If the four-legged friend has short legs or is old, jumping into the car becomes an arduous climb. smart has the solution with the readyspace seats in the forfour: the entrance height can be lowered by twelve centimetres in next to no time. Passenger Fido, ready for boarding! The clever, lowerable “readyspace” reversible cushions were actually invented to facilitate the transportation of bulky items at the rear of the smart forfour. But the dog owners among the drivers of the small car quickly realised that the readyspace seats help Fido and his fellow dogs to board the vehicle much more easily and without excessive physical effort. The level surface lowered by 12 centimetres is also ideal for a dog basket or a rug. The standard vent windows ensure fresh air during the journey. And as the cushions on the rear bench can be swivelled by 180 degrees they remain clean and well-maintained despite transporting a dog. Additional advantage as a standard feature: the rear doors of the forfour can be opened by almost 90° for even easier access. This facilitates getting in and out of the smart forfour for both man and dog, as boarding the forfour is much easier on the severely stressed joints of many breeds of dog than with many other cars. “For small or older dogs in particular climbing into a car can often be very arduous”, says vet Heike Lieberknecht from Birkenau near Mannheim in South Hesse. “Lots of dogs particularly like sitting right behind their owner. The lower position means that all passengers are well protected, also in the event of hard braking or even an accident. But please still make sure that your dog always wears a seat belt”. And the shorter the special dog seat belt, the safer. With an appropriate adapter, standard models can simply be latched into the smart’s belt buckle. A dog crate that also fits on the rear bench of the smart forfour and facilitates boarding for the animal is a further safe transportation option for Fido and his chauffeur.
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Typically smart: extremely good utilisation of space and excellent manoeuvrability Short overhangs, minimal length, high steering angle: the smart forfour has everything it takes to manoeuvre elegantly into any parking space – and around every corner, too. And the fourdoor car turns almost as compactly as the previous fortwo. Its statistics are 8.65 m (kerb to kerb) and 8.95 m (wall to wall). And because the strengths of the short length are really only shown off when optimum use is made of the space available, it boasts excellent space efficiency. The smart engineers have developed the body space index (BSI) to describe how efficiently space is used. This describes the ratio of interior to exterior length, whereby the interior length is measured from the accelerator pedal in unused position along a horizontal line to the rear end, as a simple means of comparison between different vehicles. At 77% the smart forfour attains a top rating for this criterion. And the four-door car not only has space for four people, it also has impressive loading capacity. The rear seat backrests can be folded down to produce a level load surface of at least 1285 x 996 mm with a cargo volume of up to 975 litres – the benchmark in its segment. The loading length with the front passenger seat backrest folded forward is also exceptional, at 2.22 metres.
4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
News from smart
Mercedes-Benz and smart at Auto Guangzhou 2015: Product offensive in the Pearl River Delta
Guangzhou. Mercedes-Benz and smart are continuing along the road to success in China and will be using Auto Guangzhou 2015 for an impressive demonstration of their future potential: Mercedes-Benz models on display at the prominent motor show in the southern Chinese economic centre will include the new GLC, which continues the product initiative in the booming SUV segment, plus the long-wheelbase versions of the S 500 e and C 350 e Plug-In Hybrid Saloons. The latter is the first Mercedes-Benz Plug-In Hybrid model to roll off the production line in China. Mercedes-AMG will be showcasing impressive, sporty highlights in the shape of the G 63 EDITION 463 limited-edition model and the new Mercedes-AMG A 45 4MATIC. The new four-seater smart forfour is celebrating its Chinese premiere at Auto Guangzhou. In 2015 Mercedes-Benz will again post a record result in China, the world’s biggest automotive market: “Thanks to the strong performance of the C-Class and our SUV family, we have achieved a growth rate of 32% in the first ten months, and as of today we have served approximately 300,000 customers so far this year,” states Nicholas Speeks, President and CEO of Beijing Mercedes-Benz Sales Service Co., Ltd. (BMBS). “Three things will allow us to continue our sustainable development in and with China - our strong dealer partner network, our robust product line-up, and of course, the core of our focus – providing the best customer experience,” continues Speeks. Key Mercedes newcomers in China include the locally-produced GLC - the successor to the GLK that has proven so successful here. Since the start of the year, sales of SUVs in China have increased by about 41%. The GLK and GLA account for a significant share of this. The new GLC mid-size SUV has all the ingredients required to build on this success: its strengths under all driving conditions include the outstanding safety that is a brand hallmark, state-of-the-art assistance systems and high energy efficiency. Fuel consumption has been cut by up to 19 percent compared with the previous model. At the same time, the AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension that is without parallel in this segment, the extended range of DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic transmission modes and the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive increase not only the ride comfort, but also the vehicle’s sporty agility - whatever surface it is driving on. The GLC sets new benchmarks in all disciplines - the mid-size SUV’s off-road capabilities remain as outstanding as ever.
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
The design philosophy behind the new GLC essentially adds sensual purity and modern aesthetics to the classic off-road look. The dynamic design exudes emotional appeal while also employing purist forms. Impressively taut surfaces and precise lines cite the clear design line followed by all state-of-the-art SUVs from Mercedes-Benz. smart forfour: the ideal urban family car Following the smart fortwo, which was presented in Shanghai in April, the new smart forfour is already the second China premiere of the year from smart. “We are confident that our new smart forfour will appeal to young and lifestyle-oriented families in particular,” says smart boss Dr Annette Winkler. “Here in China, the smart brand is a lifestyle icon and anything but mainstream: the new smart forfour provides further proof of this.” Its manoeuvrability makes the more flexible smart forfour a superb choice for built-up areas. Highlights of the smart fourseater include maximum space in minimum room and its intelligent load management – making it the ideal urban family car. Advanced assistance systems that were previously the reserve of higher vehicle classes are available either as standard or optional extras. As champions of urban mobility, both smart models boast more functionality, more safety and more comfort than ever before.
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Rally roadster
Geneva to Barcelona Endurance Rally - 2015 Outside of the race series, September also saw thesmartclub participating in the unique Rally Roadster for the Geneva to Barcelona Endurance Rally. The car performed flawlessly over the 2026 km challenge that took competitors from just south of Geneva, along the south of France and then across the Pyrenees to north of Barcelona. The first couple of days saw us driving through the ex-WRC mountain stages north of Monaco and an incorrect choice made regarding of brake pad compound meant our speeds downhill were a little compromised. At the end of Day 1 we were lying 15th Overall but over the coming four days we climbed from 15th to 12th to 9th and finally finished 6th overall, 3rd in class and we won ‘1st Team’ for overall performance throughout the event. It was a great result against some tough competition including Lotus, Porsche, Caterham, Mazda, BMW and even a Lancia Stratos.
Of course, with only 698cc, our engine was working flat out for most of the five day event with our closest competitor, in terms of engine size, having more than twice the engine capacity of our smart Roadster. There were 25 cars starting the event with our smart in Class A for cars up to 1600cc in which there were seven cars competing in that Class.
The car was equipped with a range of telemetry not only tracking and transmitting the car’s location back to the UK but also grabbing a bunch of associated technical data from pressures, to temperatures with both analogue and digital data being stored for future analysis.
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4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
With over 75% of the stages taking place in the mountains, braking was a real focal point and telemetry installed on the car showed the brake pedal was pressed a total of 24,063 times during the five days of competition. That explains the brake dust! The Roadster celebrates its 10th year in competition having entered the Monte Carlo Rally in 2005 (1st in class and an impressive 3rd overall) and throughout that 10 year period, the car has undergone continual development and testing. To date, the reliability has been superb and performance continually improving. As many of our readers will appreciate, there is a vast difference between short sprint racing where limits can be pushed in terms of bhp balanced against Endurance Rallying lasting 5 or 6 days with competitive driving for 8 to 10 hours per day averaging over 5000 rpm every hour every day. As they say, to finish first, you first have to finish! Much of the route data we have captured is available on request covering our route and an extract from technical data but the graphic shown below reflects the brake pedal applications each day up and down the tortuous mountain stages of Monaco and the Pyrenees.
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
My thanks to our teammates in ‘Team Lettuce(win)’ comprising Alan & Ruth Robinson and Dirk Meert & Inez Jacquemyn and congratulations on our team 1st place! I’d also like to thank Carol & Peter at the Guild, Ben, Dick, Steve & Denise for marshalling in some extreme conditions, Tony Williams for the social media updates throughout the event, Fiona for the brill navigation(!) without which we’d be nowhere, the team at smarts4you Racing and importantly, our continued successes would not have been possible without the support of Graham Affleck and his team at smart of Edinburgh to whom we are eternally grateful! Pictures courtesy of Sophie Nave, James Miles and Inez Jacquemyn.
23
Technical Information
smart towing
Aside from the many features of the conventional ‘fortwo’ (irrespective of model), there have always been some areas where these models are consistently spotted – small city parking spaces, promoting corporate services through the use of bespoke panels or graphics and, from time to time, hitched onto the rear of a motorhome or RV and it’s this latter area we’re keen to cover in this issue of 4site. There have been many queries reaching us about the exact rules about towing fortwo (450, 451 or 453) models. Indeed, with the advent of the 453 ‘twinamic’ model with sequential double clutch facilitated gearbox, there are even more questions. Overall, there’s always a ‘best option’ for all models and that is simply to place your entire beloved fortwo on a trailer ensuring that all four wheels of your towed smart are off the ground. The real issues and challenges arise when one tows a fortwo with either the front or rear wheels off the ground with the remaining towed wheels on the ground or simply towing the car behind you with all four wheels on the ground. Full information about what can and cannot be done is contained in the owner’s handbook (450 pages 260-262, 451 page 157 and 453 pages 230-231). Supporting this, and for the benefit of our readers, smart have confirmed to us that the towing directions on the previous model smart 451 are exactly the same as the new model (the 453) namely Emergency towing: • Max 50km/h (31mph) speed • Max distance 50km (31 miles) smart have advised us that “Long distance towing can only be done using a flatbed trailer with all 4 wheels on the trailer. A-frame towing offered for smart by some companies could lead to catastrophic engine and transmission damage and will void the warranty.” Indeed, smart have advised us that where a smart has been towed with all wheels on the ground more than 30miles at speeds higher than 30mph the owner is risking the car’s engine and transmission. smart have provided us images of a smart 451 that was towed behind an RV with an A-frame for a journey longer than that advised in the handbook. Importantly we understand that the damage caused resulted in the car being “a total loss”. As such, in all cases, you should ensure that you follow the instructions provided in the owners handbook. Always ensure the car is in ‘N’ (neutral) and, for the 453 twinamic, we’d specifically recommend flat bed trailer towing with all four towed wheels off the ground thus mitigating ANY risk to transmission or pre-engaged gears.
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4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
Dealership News
smart arrives in Ascot
Harry Darbyshire is confident that he has made a very smart move in his career and he is now encouraging local Ascot motorists to follow suit. The keen sportsman has become the first dedicated smart sales specialist at Mercedes-Benz of Ascot following the recent addition of the iconic brand at the London Road retail outlet. The launch of smart at Mercedes-Benz of Ascot comes after the new smart fortwo and forfour models were unveiled earlier this year. Sixteen years after the original smart arrived in the UK, these latest versions are better-equipped, more spacious and refined and offer an enhanced driving experience. Available with a 999 cc petrol engine with 71 hp and a turbocharged 898 cc petrol engine producing 90 hp, the new smarts can achieve up to 68.9 mpg (combined) and with CO2 emissions less than 100 g/km are road tax exempt.
Harry has made a successful start to his career – selling a fleet of models to a broad range of customers in his first few weeks, including several first-time drivers and a pub which has bought a fortwo that it will have sign-written and use as a ‘runabout’.
At 6.95 metres, the latest fortwo boasts the smallest turning circle in its class and can even outmanoeuvre a London cab, whilst the four-seater forfour can accommodate a considerable 975-litre cargo and loads measuring up to 2.2 metres in length when not transporting passengers.
“Customers like the fact that smarts are very different from any other cars on the road, are extremely affordable to run and offer a variety of colour combinations for the tridion safety cell and body panels so they can mix and match to suit their personal tastes,” added Harry.
“smart is an exciting brand to represent and the arrival of the new models and growing interest in them means that I couldn’t have joined at a better time,” said 20-year-old Harry, who previously worked in sales. “Here at Ascot, we have a dedicated showroom area displaying the latest models as well as several demonstrators for people to test drive.”
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
“For me, the best part of the job is seeing the huge smiles that you get when you hand over a set of keys – knowing that the customer is delighted with their car and the service that I’ve provided.” For further information on the smart range or to arrange a test drive, please contact Harry Darbyshire at smart of Mercedes-Benz of Ascot on 01344 420096.
25
Dealership News
Outstanding deals at smart of Edinburgh As many of you will know, smart of Edinburgh is one of the many UK Retailers participating in the UK smart Retailer initiative offering customers of new and used smart cars one year’s free Membership of thesmartclub. The team at smart of Edinburgh have some fantastic deals on right now but only for a limited time. For example, you can pick up a new forfour (Edition #1, 71bhp 5 door 2015 model) for a discounted deposit* and low monthly payments*. And with the Edition #1 coming supplied with a Premium Plus Package as standard in addition to the Sports Package coupled with the fact it’s a limited edition production run, it makes this model a very desirable car and a great offer. The team at smart of Edinburgh can provide you with full details about these offers and the Terms and Conditions associated with the above deal but in addition, there are also some great deals to be had on their used car stock attracting a fantastic 3.9% APR*. Finally, if you fancy a test drive in the new twinamic 71bhp or 90bhp fortwo, give the smart of Edinburgh team a call right now on 0131 466 5580 *Subject to the Terms and Conditions available from smart of Edinburgh (www.smartofedinburgh.co.uk, Tel +44-131-466-5580).
Earlier this year, a new service for UK based smart car owners launched helping such owners to find a smart service or repair centre in a location to suit them. The ‘Help my smart’ online service allows users to select a geographic location, address, town, postcode of even part of a desired Retailer or Independent 3rd party company name. With full Google map functionality, once the desired area has been selected, markers identify smart Retailers and/or 3rd party companies who may be able to assist. A ‘pin’ on the map identifies the specific location of each such company and, when clicked, will offer full contact details and a direct link to that Retailer or 3rd party web site. As the service uses Google Maps, one can zoom to street level and use Google Street View to locate the premises. Retailers and 3rd Party companies (Independents) are further categorised indicating whether a company is a ‘Featured Retailer’ or ‘Featured Independent’. Such ‘Featured’ companies have further details, offers and promotions available via thesmartclub’s web site and/or ‘4site’ smart Magazine.
26
The service is providing incredibly popular with over 400 unique visitors per day visiting the service and this is increasing exponentially each month. You can find out more at www.helpmysmart.com or, if you are unable to access the web, you can contact thesmartclub directly on +44 (0) 8452 990332.
4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
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Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
27
4two Cup
The 4twocup Review - 2015 It’s been another great year for smarts4you Racing, the drivers in the 4twocup and The smart Racing Club. In this article, we look back at each of the 2015 races and give you a breakdown for each driver for each race and a summary table of results by driver throughout the year. It’s been great to see new faces appear in the 4wtocup throughout the year and the addition of Zandvoort in June 2014 – whilst not qualifying as a round in the 4twocup series of races, it proved a challenging event for those participating and yet, still true to the ethos of smart racing, great fun! Rounds 1 & 2 - Silverstone Qualifying Results - Saturday 4th April
Race 1 Results - Saturday 4th April
Race 2 Results - Sunday 5th April
Grid (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Laps
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Laps
1
Nash
1:18.369
1
Clatworthy
1:17.365
12
1
Nash
1:17.935
12
2
Palmer A
1:18.372
2
Nash
1:17.993
12
2
Palmer A
1:17.824
12
3
Kemp
1:19.217
3
Palmer J
1:17.985
12
3
Clatworthy
1:17.608
12
4
Clatworthy
1:19.486
4
Palmer A
1:17.732
12
4
Palmer J
1:17.963
12
5
Palmer J
1:20.056
5
Kemp
1:18.343
12
5
Kemp
1:19.141
12
6
Woodhead
1:24.794
6
Woodhead
1:24.698
11
6
Grace
1:27.498
11
7
Grace
1:27.267
7
Grace
1:26.359
11
7
Woodhead
1:42.634
9
Rounds 3 & 4 - Rockingham Qualifying Results - Saturday 16th May
Race 1 Results - Saturday 16th May
Race 2 Results - Sunday 17th May
Grid (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Laps
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Laps
1
Clatworthy
1:56.953
1
Clatworthy
1:56.521
8
1
Clatworthy
1:56.393
9
2
Palmer
1:57.301
2
Nash
1:56.584
8
2
Nash
1:58.067
9
3
Nash
1:57.929
3
Palmer
1:58.461
8
3
Palmer
1:58.087
9
4
Palmer
1:59.180
4
Owens
1:58.757
8
4
Owens
1:58.070
8
5
Owens
2:00.971
5
Palmer
2:05.383
7
5
Palmer
2:00.575
8
6
Grace
2:07.582
6
Woodhead
2:05.610
7
6
Woodhead
2:01.562
8
7
Green
2:08.361
7
Green
2:07.908
7
7
Green
2:06.146
8
8
Woodhead
2:11.229
8
Grace
2:06.944
7
8
Grace
2:08.483
8
Zandvoort (Not part of 4twocup) Race 1 Results - Saturday 20th June
Race 2 Results - Sunday 21st June - WET RACE
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Ave Speed (km/h)
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Ave Speed (km/h)
1
Clatworthy
2:20.639
107.36
1
Nash
2:46.674
88.20
2
Nash
2:22.872
106.05
2
Clatworthy
2:53.157
84.58
DNS
Palmer
Engine failure
DNS
Palmer
Engine failure
Rounds 5 & 6 - Castle Combe Qualifying Results - Saturday 18th July
Race 1 Results - Saturday 18th July
Grid (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Laps
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Laps
1
Nash
1:30.805
1
Nash
1:30.930
10
1
Nash
1:30.388
11
2
Clatworthy
1:31.428
2
Clatworthy
1:31.232
10
2
Clatworthy
1:30.312
11
3
Palmer A
1:33.129
3
Palmer A
1:31.556
10
3
Palmer A
1:30.532
11
4
Owens
1:34.855
4
Owens
1:33.256
10
4
Owens
1:31.728
10
5
Woodhead
1:39.034
5
Palmer J
1:33.067
10
5
Woodhead
1:31.901
10
6
Palmer J
1:41.750
6
Woodhead
1:35.054
10
6
Palmer J
1:32.224
10
7
Grace
1:42.016
7
Grace
1:43.934
9
7
Grace
1:41.410
9
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Race 2 Results - Sunday 19th July
4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
Rounds 7 & 8 - Brands Hatch Indy Qualifying Results - Saturday 22nd August
Race 1 Results - Saturday 22nd August
Race 2 Results - Sunday 23rd August
Grid (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Laps
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Laps
1
Horrobin S
1:03.014
1
Horrobin S
1:03.904
15
1
Clatworthy
1:02.984
7
2
Owens G
1:03.539
2
Owens G
1:03.931
15
2
Horrobin S
1:04.790
7
3
Palmer A
1:03.627
3
Clatworthy
1:04.147
15
3
Palmer J
1:04.730
7
4
Nash D
1:03.697
4
Nash D
1:04.005
15
4
Owens G
1:03.376
7
5
Clatworthy M
1:04.212
5
Palmer A
1:04.200
15
5
Grace D
1:12.091
7
6
Palmer J
1:04.550
6
Grace D
1:10.489
13
6
Weir I
1:12.805
7
7
Grace D
1:10.407
7
Green R
1:11.054
13
7
Bloomfield
1:12.628
7
8
Green R
1:12.098
8
Palmer J
1:08.562
13
DNF
Nash D
1:03.884
4
9
Weir I
1:14.082
9
Weir I
1:13.577
13
DNF
Green R
1:02.530
1
10
Bloomfield M
1:14.380
10
Bloomfield
1:13.977
13
DNS
Palmer A
DNS
0
*Race Red Flagged after 8 laps **Car 96 (Weir) incurred 10 sec penalty for false start
Rounds 9 & 10 - Mallory Park Qualifying Results - Saturday 26th Sept.
Race 1 Results - Saturday 26th Sept.
Race 2 Results - Saturday 26th Sept.
Grid (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Laps
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Laps
1
Nash
1:00.506
1
Palmer J
1:01.258
15
1
Horrobin
1:00.325
4
2
Palmer J
1:00.617
2
Palmer A
1:01.101
15
2
Nash
1:00.347
4
3
Clatworthy
1:00.631
3
Owens
1:00.420
15
3
Palmer A
1:00.656
4
4
Palmer A
1:01.642
4
Horrobin
1:01.320
15
4
Clatworthy
1:00.525
4
5
Horrobin
1:01.916
5
Nash
1:00.592
15
5
Palmer J
1:01.827
4
6
Kemp
1:02.331
6
Clatworthy
1:00.509
15
6
Weir
1:09.723
4
7
Owens
1:04.234
7
Grace
1:08.391
14
7
Bloomfield
1:12.259
4
8
Woodhead
1:07.197
8
Weir
1:09.802
13
9
Grace
1:09.334
9
Bloomfield
1:12.417
13
*Race red flagged after 7 laps completed (in 4two cup) Final times and laps are shown above.
10
Weir
1:10.111
11
Bloomfield
1:13.340
Rounds 11 & 12 - Donington Park Qualifying Results - Saturday 18th Oct.
Race 1 Results - Saturday 18th Oct.
Grid (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
Laps
Position (4twocup)
Driver
Best
1
Clatworthy M
1:35.291
1
Horrobin S
1:33.557
10
1
Horrobin S
1:32.521 11
2
Palmer A
1:35.679
2
Palmer A
1:34.690
10
2
Palmer A
1:35.525
11
3
Nash D
1:36.457
3
Nash D
1:35.041
10
3
Owens G
1:36.448
10
4
Palmer J
1:37.188
4
Clatworthy
1:35.159
10
4
Nash D
1:35.443
10
5
Horrobin S
1:37.225
5
Palmer J
1:35.324
10
5
Coverdale
1:39.443
10
6
Owens G
1:39.105
6
Coverdale
1:40.128
9
6
Clatwrthy
1:35.417
10
7
Coverdale S
1:39.331
7
Woodhead
1:50.594
8
7
Woodhead
1:53.620
9
8
Woodhead A
1:59.046
DNF
Owens G
1:35.217
7
DNF
Palmer J
1:36.151
4
Issue 31 - 2015 - www.thesmartclub.co.uk
Race 2 Results - Sunday 18th Oct. Laps
29
Crossblade Event 2015
On 2nd to 5th July 2015, a massive gathering of crossblades from across Europe took part in a wonderful tour of the Black Forest. Keen to support this event was an equally impressive group of crossblade owners from the UK including Rob and Briony Baker, Nina and Chris Mason, David Selmon, Ian Weir, Alan Manton and Mr Colin Hyams.
30
4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website
Protect the car you love. Thousands of our smart car owners each year trust our motor insurance policy to look after their smart. Motor Insurance by smart has been rated 5-Star by a UK independent financial research company Defaqto and offers superb features such as: • Guaranteed GenuineParts and repairs carried out by a smart Approved Repair Centre • 24/7 UK accident recovery In addition to the above, if you insure a second car with us you’ll receive a 10% multi-vehicle discount on your premium.
Join in. Call now for a quote on 0345 600 3429 Or visit us at thesmart.co.uk/ins OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES IN MPG (LITRES PER 100KM) FOR THE SMART FORTWO & FORFOUR RANGE: URBAN 55.4 (5.1)-58.9 (4.8), EXTRA URBAN 72.4 (3.9)-76.4 (3.7), COMBINED 65.7 (4.3)-68.9 (4.1), CO2 EMISSIONS 99-93 G/KM. Motor Insurance by smart is arranged by Daimler Insurance Services UK Limited and underwritten by Aviva Insurance Limited. Registered in Scotland, No. 2116. Registered Office: Pitheavlis, Perth PH2 0NH. Daimler Insurance Services are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Aviva Insurance Limited are authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.
Issue Issue 31 28 -- 2015 2014 -- www.thesmartclub.co.uk www.thesmartclub.co.uk
smart – A Daimler Brand.
31 31
Magazine design & production by Oliver Whittaker Š 2015 32
4site - the columns that support thesmartclub’s website