The second-generation fortwo electric drive is already being trialled by selected customers in Europe, with leases being offered for a period of four years and 60,000 kilometres.

Now authorised distributor smart USA is to implement a trial of 250 electric drive vehicles from this autumn in select regions. Smart USA says it is targeting companies, municipalities, organisations and individuals interested in making a passionate statement on conservation and environmental awareness. Partners for vehicle placements will be announced later this year.

The second-generation smart fortwo electric drive vehicles are full electric vehicles, powered by a 30kW drive motor and 16.5kWh lithium-ion battery. They can be charged from 20% capacity to 80% in 3.5 hours using a standard 220V outlet, with a full charge taking under eight hours. The vehicles offer a range of 82 miles (132km) on a single charge.

The data gathered from the trial is intended to help with the production of the third-generation model, which goes on general sale in 2012, and will provide information on the performance, range capability and recharging time.

Marc Langenbrinck, responsible for brand management at smart, said: 'In 1998 smart revolutionised urban mobility with the unique smart fortwo vehicle concept. Now smart is once again taking on a pioneering role and redefining zero-emission urban mobility. We are the first manufacturer to launch a series-produced electric vehicle. Daimler is spearheading electric mobility with the smart fortwo electric drive. The smart fortwo electric drive is a further logical step in the evolution of the smart brand which boasts the fleet with the lowest fuel consumption anyway.'