I noticed neither the 2008 smart Canadian brochure nor the accessory catalog mentions anything about the cruise control, which was available in the previous generation smart.
While smart is making cruise avaliable on the 112 version, which might mean it would be easy to get parts from smart in the near future I would say your option is limited to the aftermarket places offering the cruise for the 451.
MisterDotCom seems to be the source of the systems and you can buy them from Berlin Tuner or MisterDotCom, but again they both seem to be the same unit with MisterDotCom providing the best info.
Looks like a new, improved cruise control is coming...
For anybody who is seriously considering purchasing a cruise control for the new Smart 451, I would suggest you go out to this website: "www.smartcarcruisecontrol.com".
This is a new product that is being developed for the market and it looks extremely promising. They have a very informative explanation posted there. You can also register there to be notified when they are available.
I am definitely going to wait for this version after reading what it promises to provide. Talke a look.
In some European countries cruise control is illegal. That is why it is not available oem. Same as radar detectors are illegal in some US states. Just because it is against the law does not stop a person with a desire to acquire these features.
October 1, 07, I got this email from SmartUSA "Dear smart Enthusiast, Thank you for your interest in smart USA. Unfortunately, cruise control is not an option on the smart fortwo model. If you have any other questions or concerns, please contact us via email, or by phone at 1.800.smartusa. Thank you for your interest in smart. You will be hearing from us soon! Mili Shedrick Customer Care smart USA 1.800.smartusa"
No other explanation was available over the phone when I called to ask about aftermarket possibilities.
This is one reason I'm sort of content to wait for my ordered car: I'm hoping Cruise Control is made an option by the time I configure. Otherwise, I'll be reordering as soon as it is and selling my original smart, something I really hate doing. I attribute cruise control as the reason, in all my years of driving, I've never received a speeding ticket. Yesterday, I [I]tried[I] driving without cc..and found myself constantly doing 70 in a 55 mph zone. Without it, it's only a matter of time before I see pretty lights behind me.
You should think about what you posted for a second or two..
Illegal? Really? Hummm That would mean hundreds of thousands of inter country travelers would be subject to civil or criminal action just to drive their auto in the country...
I believe you are referring to a Ban on Cruise Control use on a specific motorway in Belgium. In the grand scheme of all European roads, that is equivalent to the Washington DC ban on cell phone use on, and inside, the "Capitol beltway".
Cars are bought and sold every day with the CC option in Belgium
parnami
A good USA engineered and tested cruise control add on will be available some time this summer.... see Harleyduo's post above.
These seem to be good team of folks intent on making a profession device that will not void a warranty and will work as we expect a CC to work.
Cruise control is available on one model currently in production. In the smart 451 cruise control is simply an additional switch on the wiper stalk and some firmware in the ECU.
I think it will happen but it may take a while and a few thousnad emails to smart.
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.