Daimler and smart, GmbH started selling the Smart micro car to the Mexican car market in 2003. Smart of Mexico sells cars at roughly seven locations all attached to existing Mercedes dealers. The sales centers are in Mexico City with the others in Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Veracruz.

That was their first foray on the North American continent.

Philipp Schiemer, then Smart's vice president for marketing and sales, said "We are also gaining our first experience which we can use to prepare for entering the U.S. market."

Bob was kind enough to send the great photos (posted on SCOA Forum) and wrote:

"Here are some photos of Smarts in our part of Mexico; and we're just a tiny fraction here at Lake Chapala with a few visitors from Guadalajara for this year's International Chili Cook-Off Parade and festival. It is quite a contrast with the American and Canadian retirees here and the younger crowd from Guadalajara and all of their energy."
   
"There is an active Smart Car Club of Mexico, in Spanish of course, and I log in there frequently."

"A few months ago, I organized an 'invitational' and hosted some of the Guadalajara members for a rally, lunch and boat excursion on Lake Chapala.

The club has had other rallies and gatherings in other parts of the country but my old bones aren't up to their all night party endurance. Many of the Mexican Club members are quite capable in English and some are Americans themselves; some being dual citizens."

"I'm sure they would enjoy participating in the SCOA forums if there were a Mexican chapter added to the array. I'm registered as RVGRINGO."
   
"If I can play a role, please let me know."

"Best regards,"
   
"Bob"

He certainly can and his assistance is greatly appreciated!

See more pictures in the Mexico Smarties Gallery.