So where do all the orphans come from

[CTJon]

Are they from cars that were configured and then the people drop out? Or is it once a reservation is made the car is produced as reserved even if they aren't finally configured and a refund is gotten? It seems as if there should be very few who configure and then drop out.

[Old smart]

There are lots who drop out all along the process because they are only tied by a $99 deposit which is always refundable.

I'm guessing that smartUSA is comfortable with that because it leaves their dealers with something that they can sell to their benefit, and the dealers are working on a pretty thin margin compared to their investment.

[saronian]

The US cars are produced directly from the reservation holders online configuration. The attrition is likely caused by the 12+ months it took to produce a car. It's still unclear if reserving today will get you a car in 10 months or 20 months.

A lot can change in a year.

[angel]

From the factory in France where all the other smarts come from.


{Sorry. Couldn't help myself.}

[jwight]

No way, the stork brings them!

[Big Panda]

MY BAD......

[Big Panda]

"So where do all the orphans come from?"

the orphans come from an orphanage. they are placed there when its parents, an E Class and C Class HAVE 'no class' and give it up for adoption.

makes one wonder what this world is coming to.......

[mmmeat]

Probably a dumb question, but ...

I've been told that if I order the Smart, it has to run on mid-grade or premium fuel. If I get an orphan, does it run on porridge?

Your pal,
Meat.

[Springlering]

FWIW, I heard thru the grapevine that most are loans that couldn't qualify when the car finally arrived at the dealer.

[brian r]

If you're looking for an orphan, I'll be cloning my fortwo in the basement as soon as the Flux Capacitor arrives.