LA Auto Show 2011 - Smart ED

On the Smart stand is the next generation of its electric Fortwo, called the ED – or Electric Drive.

The car is due to go on sale next spring. It will be available in right-hand drive and gets a new lithium-ion battery pack that powers a 55kW motor. Top speed increases from 62mph in the current Fortwo ED to 74.5mph.

Smart doesn't quote a 0-62mph time, but 0-38mph is cut from 6.5 seconds to 5 seconds. The car's range also improves a little, with the current 84 miles extended to more than 87 miles.

It takes eight hours to completely recharge the batteries, although a fast charge can be completed in an hour with the optional quick-charge function. Prices have yet to be revealed.