American consumers might soon have yet another choice in the cars they buy. Later this month, DaimlerChrysler AG will decide whether to introduce its Smart model, which is popular in Europe, in the
U.S. The car is known for its small size and low gas mileage, a trait that should make it popular in the U.S., where gas prices have skyrocketed. It should also play well in large cities, because
Smart is so small that two of them can fit in one standard size parking space. "I think the Smart is exciting -- there is some potential" for U.S. sales, said Erich Merkle, director of forecasting
for IRN Inc., an auto consulting firm. He added that younger generations looking for something economical and different may look to the Smart as an alternative to the recently launched Honda Fit or
Toyota Scion. However, some are dubious of Smart's future given the troubles of the division itself. The Smart unit has not posted a profit since it was launched in 1998.
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