DaimlerChrysler to import Smart car to US from 2006

Mercedes USA chairman Paul Halata said that DaimlerChrysler AG unit Mercedes-Benz will begin importing its Smart car range into the US from 2006.

The vehicle will be built in Brazil and will be similar to Smart's Forfour micro-SUV, which launches in non-US markets next spring.

Halata predicts that US sales will reach 25,000-30,000 units in the first year.

Halata told American daily The Detroit News that the small vehicle is "a great opportunity to go after the young market."

Mercedes USA has already opened a US marketing office for the Smart vehicle line, in preparation for the launch.

Scott Keogh has been named general manager of Smart USA, a new division at Mercedes-Benz's US headquarters in Montvale, New Jersey.