Thinking of Buying a Smart Car? Your Questions answered

Smart cars are the smart choice for a lot of people. Founded in 1994, the manufacturer’s first car – the smart fortwo – was designed as a modern microcar with an electric or hybrid drive. Today, it is owned by Mercedes-Benz and is renowned for providing a leading range of electric city cars. If you’re thinking about buying a smart car, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about them…

Are smart cars electric?

Smart cars used to be hybrid and electric, but the range became fully electric in 2018.

Are smart cars allowed on the motorway in the UK?

Yes, you are allowed to drive smart cars on the motorway. In fact, they reach a maximum speed of 96 miles per hour.

Do smart cars have power steering?

Power steering is optional in smart cars.

Do smart cars have back seats?

The smart fortwo car provides two front seats, while the smart forfour model offers two front sears and two back seats.

Are smart cars automatic?

Smart cars are available with a choice of a six-speed manual or a dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Do smart cars have spare tyres?

Smart cars do not come with a spare tyre, but you can keep one in the trunk.

Do smart cars pay congestion charges?

As smart cars are fully electric, they are currently exempt from congestion zone charges in the UK.

Are smart cars cheap to run?

While you will need to pay for electricity to charge a smart car (either at home or at a public charging point), this cost will be cheaper than paying for petrol or diesel. Smart cars are also one of the cheapest new cars to insure.

smart cars at Eastern Western

Cheaper to run, kinder to the environment, compact, zippy and available with four seats – why wouldn’t you want to get behind the wheel of a Smart car for a test drive? We have a great range of new smart cars at Eastern Western, including the smart ForTwo and smart ForFour.

Visit one of our smart dealerships at Edinburgh Newbridge and Coldstream to speak to a member of our friendly team, or browse our smart car range online and check out the best finance option for you. It just might be the smartest thing you do today.