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Smart has revealed the latest eco-friendly version of its FourTwo, the ev - but it won't be hitting UK showrooms just yet.

The ev uses a 40bhp magnetic electric motor and has a top speed of 70mph (limited) and a range of 72 miles. It can be recharged using a regular three-pin electric plug socket and is exempt from vehicle excise duty and the congestion charge.

Smart plans to leasea around 200 of the cars to corporate customers in the UK, with deliveries starting in November. Mercedes Car Group MD Dermot Kelly sayd, "We'll work with these corporate partners to find suitable applications for the ev, and with green energy suppliers to deliver zero emissions from well to wheel. The ev is as significant step for the Mercedes Car Group as it is an important part of our commitment to sustainable mobility."

The ev slots into a four-car 'eco line-up' from Smart - the firm also has stop/start technology, a diesel/battery hybrid and a compressed natural gas model.

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