DaimlerChrysler's Smart sets cut-rate German model

FRANKFURT, Feb 21, 2005; Reuters reported that DaimlerChrysler will offer a cut-rate German version of its four-seat Smart ForFour model as part of its drive to expand the loss-making Smart brand's product portfolio, the company said on Monday.

The limited edition "ForFour Pure" model goes on sale in Germany next week for 10,990 euros ($14,350) including value added tax, the German-American carmaker said in a statement.

That is 2,000 euros less than the cheapest model now available. The special deal lasts for six months.

The new model will be shown at next week's Geneva car show along with tuned-up versions of the ForFour and Smart roadster and roadster coupe models.

DaimlerChrysler is in the midst of a strategic review for Smart, which has not made a profit since the minicar made its debut in 1998. An announcement is due by May.

"The new models are not an indication that the analysis of our future product strategy has already concluded," a spokesman said.

The company has frozen development of an SUV version of the Smart called the ForMore that was supposed to be its model for entering the U.S. market.