Daimler launches new version of tiny Smart car

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Germany’s Daimler AG is unveiling a new version of its tiny, two-seat Smart model in hopes the car won’t just grab attention with its unusual design — but make a bigger contribution to the company’s profits as well.

Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche introduced the new Smart Fortwo on Wednesday at Berlin’s Tempodrom event center.

The new version is the same length at only 2.7 meters, or 8 feet, 10 inches, but is slightly wider and has a short front hood where the old one had none.

Analysts say the new Smart has a chance to make a bigger contribution to company profits because it shares many parts with Daimler partner Renault’s Twingo, which helps lower costs.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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