Smart to Offer Customization Options for Vehicles?

Smart USA has been experiencing much lower sales than in 2009. Hyundai models that are sold at a Hyundai Birmingham dealer have fared better this year. Smart USA is a branch of Daimler AG, the producers of Mercedes-Benz, and has responded to its decreased sales with a new customization program that allows customers to choose a unique color for their vehicle. Other subcompact models can be seen at Bradenton used cars.

Smart USA started in the 1980s by the creator of the Swatch watch who felt that there was a market for customized and compact vehicles that was not being attended to. The company was originally called Hayek Engineering, named after the founder, and produced the "Swatchmobile" which was the first version of the smart car. Later on, it was purchased by Volkswagen whose models can be purchased during Volkswagen Deals. Now, smart is owned by Daimler AG who produces the Mercedes Benz models and others

The new program is called "Smart Expressions" and it started just this week. The SmartForTwo model has body panels that can be changed and this allows for customization by buyers, the president of Smart USA said. There are over 90 colors to choose from for the vehicle and even more unique colors can be selected.

The cost of the customization is about $1,500 with about $300 for labor and installation. The panels can be shipped to a dealer within 3 days. There is also the option for up to 35 different selections for vinyl wraps that are available in a matte or glossy finish. The wraps cost $1,350 with labor costs of $300 as well for installation. The program will be offered exclusively in America.

The company is down almost 61 percent for the full year as opposed to its 2009 sales. The vehicle models are not very expensive, but the economy has affected several vehicle manufacturers as consumer confidence and financing options have become limited. Sales for June of 2010 were down 48 percent from June 2009.