Just back from automechanica-europe

[smartcarparts]

THIS POSTING IS ALSO IN THE MARKETPLACE FORUM....


I have just returned from two weeks in Germany during which I attended the automechanica...the largest parts and accessory show in the world. Ten huge pavillions each 3 stories high. Manufacturers and distributors from over 60 countries displaying everything automotive for trucks and cars.

THE BOTTOM LINE......
I COULD NOT FIND A SINGLE SOURCE OF 13" STEERING WHEEL COVERS.
I COULD NOT FIND A SINGLE SOURCE OF REASONABLY PRICED ACCESSORIES SPECIFIC TO SMART.

There is just not enough world wide interest or vehicle base in place yet to warrent any manufacturer to invest in tooling or distribution.

However!!!!! I did enter into serious negotiations with two companies one of which specializes in "appearance modifications" I will not further into that at this point. THESE ARE VERY EXCITING POSSIBILITIES. hopefully in the next weeks i will have some positive news.

For soft accessories...clothing etc. that are not available here in the states.... I HAVE FULL ACCESS TO ALL SMART APPAREL AND GIFT ITEMS.

Due to the extensive products lines available, and rather than open a clothing store...i will make the appropriate announcements and take orders in advance with a lead time of approx 3-4 weeks depending on availability of colors and sizes.

Further...All genuine mechanical parts INCL BRABUS are available on special order. Please submit all inquiries with the VIN number of your car.

PERSONAL NOTE: BOTH MERCEDES AND SMART AGREE THAT SHOULD YOUR CAR REQUIRE PAINTING.... THE AVAILABLE FORMULAS FROM THE USA OR EUROPE WILL NOT MATCH. THE ONLY EXCEPTION IS THE SILVER AND BLACK ON THE METAL FRAME. THE COLOR IS INJECTED IN THE PLASTIC PANELS AND CANNOT BE DUPLICATED IN THE AFTERMARKET. ALSO...ANY ATTEMPT TO PULL OUT A DENT WITH HEAT OR WITH A "DENT PULLER" WILL ONLY MAKE THE PANEL A THROW AWAY ITEM.

It was a very very challenging week of "smart" shopping and I came away a little dissapointed in the availability of new products to offer.

As the vehicle base becomes larger and older, I will continue to add first quality replacement parts in addition to factory items not yet available in the aftermarket.

Thanks for all your years of support and I look forward to meeting a lot of new names in the future.

Sherwin

[chieftmc]

Sherwin,
Thanks for the post and update. Too bad about the aftermarket! There IS a LOT of $$$ to be made, IF someone would just move forward.

As you stated, there must first be a larger base of vehicles before anyone will invest in such a venture. Thanks for trying to keep on top of things and bringing us new products!

[yuckmoon]

Thanks for checking on the steering while cover. But I kinda had a feeling that was going to be the case. No worries. I'm just going to make one. I'll post pictures when I get it done.

[p1nball]

Good job of networking for parts!!

[Smitty]

If we get the part numbers can you get parts from Europe or accessories? Like taillights and the smart bluetooth.

Tim

[yellow smart]

Sherwin,

I thank you for the time spent trying to get more options available for Smart Car owners.

My other comment is can I buy from you without going through eBay? An eBay store is a no-go for me.

Yellow-Smart

[smartcarparts]

My smart company working partner is chief of parts for smart.

order to delivery usually 3 weeks.
If you prefer DHL express the cost will be accordingly higher.

YOU MUST SUPPLY THE VIN NUMBER FOR ALL INQUIRIES.


I will soon have the complete parts book available but descriptions will be in German. You must only circle the parts you want.




ALL BRABUS PARTS are available as well.

if my negotiations this past week result in an exclusive representation I will have one or two very exciting product lines to share.



safe driving.
sherwin

[SloPok]

Originally Posted by smartcarparts

My smart company working partner is chief of parts for smart.

order to delivery usually 3 weeks.
If you prefer DHL express the cost will be accordingly higher.

YOU MUST SUPPLY THE VIN NUMBER FOR ALL INQUIRIES.


I will soon have the complete parts book available but descriptions will be in German. You must only circle the parts you want.




ALL BRABUS PARTS are available as well.

if my negotiations this past week result in an exclusive representation I will have one or two very exciting product lines to share.



safe driving.
sherwin

Why does the VIN number have to be supplied? I don't have to supply the VIN for any of my other cars or my truck when I buy an aftermarket product.

[RVGRINGO]

Some cars have small changes within the model year. I, for example, might want to order parts for my 450, bought in Mexico, and it might require a slightly different part than one sold in Canada or Europe; although it appears to be purely European. For these reasons, the VIN would identify the specific vehicle.