2008 is here! Among other things, this year marks the first time Smart Cars are available in the United States.
You know Smart Cars, right? Those cute, tiny European cars that are about as long as most cars are wide? Well, thanks to Daimler, you can now get them here. The question is, how many people will?
The cars get terrific gas mileage, and starting at $12,000, they're much more affordable than new hybrids. But they are tiny -- two feet shorter than a Mini Cooper. Smart Cars can park "nose-in" in spaces where other cars must parallel-park.
They certainly look fun to drive, and they're sure eco-friendly. But they're probably going to have pretty limited appeal. It sounds like it would be great for city driving or running light errands around the 'burbs. But driving a Smart Car on the Interstate sounds like no fun at all.
What do you think?
Photo from Daimler
Zach Patton -- Executive Editor. Zach has written about a range of topics, including social policy issues and urban planning and design. Originally from Tennessee, he joined GOVERNING as a staff writer in 2004. He received the 2011 Jesse H. Neal Award for Outstanding Journalism
E-mail: zpatton@governing.com 
Written and compiled by staff writers and editors, GOVERNING View is an on-the-ground, and sometimes behind-the-scenes, look at the topics we're covering in print and online. From notes on what's up in statehouses, county courthouses and city halls, to encounters with people, places and things, GOVERNING View is a window into the side of state and local government you don't always see.
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