Since its inception in 1994, the German automotive brand Smart has made a name for itself as a leader in small, urban mobility solutions. This is due to the vision of its founder Nicolas Hayek, who realized the value and importance of an efficient vehicle specifically designed to navigate city centres efficiently. As such, he approached numerous manufacturers before turning to Daimler-Benz and their Mercedes-Benz brand as the company with which to collaborate. The name ‘Smart’ is a combination of ‘Swatch’ - stemming from his former company Swatch Group - ‘Mercedes’ and ‘art’, in honour of Hayek’s passion for design. The Smart City-Coupé was a turning point in automobile history. In its first few weeks, it was a smash hit across Europe, being released in nine countries at once. Its revolutionary design of making a small car that could fit two people gained extreme popularity quickly. Little did people know when purchasing their first Smart cars that the company behind it would soon be bought by Daimler-Benz, who gave the company several new names before finally settling on the name “Smart GmbH”. It is an example of how great ideas can become much more than what they set out to achieve and change an entire industry forever.

Tiny Cars

Tiny cars are becoming increasingly popular these days, and for good reason! Their small size makes them perfect for those looking to squeeze into tight spots or fit into the tightest of city parking spaces. They measure around 8.5 feet in length and an incredible 5.5 feet wide, but despite their small size they provide a surprisingly large interior space. It’s amazing that so much can be packed into such a tiny package! Driving one of these is sure to make both your commute simpler and more fun!

Smart Models

The smart car has become a beloved model, with its iconic look. With more and more models released over the years, it has certainly made an impact on roads across the globe. Despite this though, due to a variety of reasons, such as limited model selection and tough competition in the market; popularity for the brand is waning compared to other car brands. It’s seen a particularly large drop off since 2020 with sales that year alone plummeting. However, here at Smart Car Otago we celebrate this company and hopefully, they can make their comeback soon!

The ForTwo is one of the best-selling models of a smart car with three generations. It is highly customizable except in North America, where its (ForTwo) production had been stopped. Thankfully, you can still shop for a smart license plate for the ForTwo with us here in our plate builder. One key factor to consider when shopping for a plate for your tiny car is its size. Most models use standard UK plates but we also make a rear plate for 2007-14 models measuring 594mm x 147mm – making it easier to secure a perfect fit for your beloved ForTwo. With us, you are sure to secure a perfectly fitting license plate for your distinct and beloved ForTwo!
Electric Transition

It’s amazing to see just how far Smart’s electric ambition has come since its initial idea in 2006. Now, their ‘Electric Drive’ range is equipped with a lithium-ion battery along with 80 horsepower and 118 pound-feet of torque. What’s more impressive is that this vehicle provides up to 99 miles of range! If you are lucky enough to own one of these models, proudly show your dedication to the electric movement by getting one of the many smart number plate options from our Plate Builder, such as the ‘Green’ EV plate.
Controversy

Smart faced a great deal of controversy surrounding the protection their vehicles provided in the aftermath of an accident. In response, they released a powerful advert indicating that even if one of their cars were to be hit by an SUV, it would remain stable and provide safety for the driver. Regarding this, people began questioning its accuracy, leading Smart to release all of the behind-the-scenes footage so that viewers could see the reality for themselves. Nowadays, those looking for quality number plates to replace their existing ones or those wanting to buy a new style plate can turn to Easy Number Plates for guaranteed topnotch Smart number plates. Customers can use the Plate Buil