Smart has announced a further expansion of its sales network, with four more Mercedes-Benz dealers taking on the franchise.

They are Pentagon in Southampton, Rawsons in Tonbridge, Mercedes-Benz Vardy Continental in Glasgow and Mercedes-Benz Dartford.

Each of these centres is expected to offer Smart servicing in the next few weeks.

The move quickly follows the launch of right-hand drive models and builds on the partners already appointed in the next phase of Smart network development in the UK. By the end of 2002 the smart sales network will consist of between 30 and 40 sites.

The first MB-UK centres to offer Smart were announced at the beginning of November - B & K Thomas Limited, Rycroft and Jacksons with showrooms in Nottingham, Stockton-on Tees, Poole and the Channel Islands.

Dermot Kelly, director passenger cars for Mercedes-Benz and Smart, said: “As sales increase and the market switches on to Smart, we need a truly national network that reflects the Smart brand and can fulfil the highest expectations in customer care. Our natural choice is to build on our existing partnerships. Those partners who show they understand, prescribe and deliver the unique smart values and who can present a viable business case will be awarded the smart franchise.”

Walter Scherg, Smart general manager, added: “Our key objective is to bring the joy of Smart ownership to many more customers in the shortest possible timescales and to the highest possible standards, whilst ensuring the brand retains a separate identity. Smart will continue to be established as a brand in its own right, with dedicated sales staff, a separate showroom identity and a unique philosophy.”