Smart Forvision: Solar Cells, OLED's and more

Teaming up with BASF, Smart will introduce the Smart Forvision in the upcoming 2011 Frankfurt Show on September 15 to September 25 in Frankfurt, Germany. Geared with revolutionary materials for minimal energy use and convenience, the car aspires to set a new trend in the automobile industry.

The Forvision, a compact yet elegant vehicle, has these radical features:

• Transparent solar cells in the glass roof that provide power for 3 fans and the multimedia system even under poor lighting conditions.

• OLED's (organic light-emitting diodes) installed with the solar cells that illuminates the interior at a press of a button or everytime a door is opened. They also provide light during the night.

• All-plastic wheels made it 3 kilograms lighter per wheel, without compromising durability and function.

• Carbon-fiber-enriched resins were used in components such as doors to achieve further weight reduction.

• Infrared-reflective film in the windscreen and side windows acts as a heat shield while allowing radio signals, that are needed for gps and mobile phones, to pass through.

• High performance foams fitted in the bodypanels keep the vehicle cool during summer and provide insulation in the winter.

• Infrared-reflective and scratch-resistant coating system on the paint surface provides temperature reduction of up to four degrees Celsius in the interior.

• Lightweight seats covered with "e-textile", which provide warmth to body parts it comes in contact with.

• All in all, the various weight reduction and energy efficient technologies add approximately 20% more to the distance it can travel.

Smart Forvision still mirrors the Fortwo, but coupled with stylish and more advanced features, it is set to win a good number of followers.


sources: www.emercedesbenz.com & www.caranddriver.com