ZAP Smart Electric concept front.JPG

At a time of none-too-subtle gas prices, the "Smart Car Americanized by Zap" (their words) hopes to attract attention. The Smart comes in various versions, the most elite getting its power from a turbocharged, 0.6-liter, 3-cylinder engine that channels its 65 horsepower through a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Considering its 8-foot-long car's 1,588-pound body, acceleration should be almost livable. The promise is 60 miles per gallon. Hardtop and convertible body styles are available. For zero emissions, ZAP also has an electric car that's limited to city use due to a limit of 25 MPH. The line of ZAP cars is aimed at the $18,000-25,000 price range, and all of the above are due to be released "any hour now," the PR rep assures me.