smart Car Faces Safety Questions - smart Crash Test Video

SEE ALSO: MSNBC smart Car Crash Video

Washington DC July 12, 2007; The AIADA newsletter reported that at just 1700 pounds, 8.8 feet long, and slightly wider and taller than 5 feet, the Smart car is already one of the smallest cars on any road in any country.

It isn't surprising, then, that safety is a concern for some consumers. MSNBC reports that Mercedes touts its safety package: a stiff "safety cell" frame, antilock brakes, side and knee air bags, and intelligent seatbelts that sense motion changes.

Still, in an accident, "the laws of physics can't be repealed," said Russ Rader of the Institute for Highway Safety. "Even with modern safety features like multiple air bags, people in small, light cars are always at a disadvantage in crashes."

Smart USA spokesman Ken Kettenbeil said U.S. tests are likely to be completed this year with the result released in the fall, and that the company expects a four-star crash rating.

At a stop in Detroit Tuesday, Dave Schembri, president of Smart USA, said he expects to have between 40 and 60 dealerships open by Jan. 1.