By Jamie Atkinson

The University’s Earth Day celebration on the Adams Quad on Wednesday welcomed a new guest: a smart car designed to show students the advantages of driving a fuel efficient vehicle.

The Mercedes-Benz of Roslyn dealership showcased their smart car, a passion coupe called “Fortwo,” during the outdoor festivities, boasting its affordable price and environmental impact. The Fortwo, originally produced in Germany and France, has several eco-friendly attributes such as recycled products for its parts and powder coating, rather then paint, which uses 40 percent less energy than the typical painting method.

“It really is a very dynamic car,” said Mercedes-Benz salesmen Ivan Bueno. “It’s very unique.”

The smart car made its U.S. debut in January 2008, almost 14 years after the concept was first being developed by Swatch, the Swiss watchmaker company. Since 1994, the smart car has developed friendlier ecological and economical- adaptations.

The smart car is very different from a hybrid vehicle. The smart car runs on normal gasoline and is advertised to reach approximately 40 miles per gallon (mpg). It is also only 98.4 inches in length, making it, Mercedes-Benz says, the perfect size for parking. The smart car also has the price tag of a normal car, retailing with factory settings at $13,590.

University students had varying opinions of the car.

“I feel really comfortable and safe,” said Laura Comer, a sophomore political science major and president of Students for a Greener Hofstra, while sitting inside the orange and red smart car. She also commented on the Fortwo’s sunroof, saying “I feel like I’m outside.”

“I think it’s a good price but it doesn’t look very safe.” said Stephanie Hesselbarth, a freshman geology and astronomy major. “I feel I could get the same benefit from a hybrid car with more comfort.”

Students admire the “Fortwo” passion coupe, a smart car showcased outdoors on the Adams Quad and sponsored by Mercedez-Benz of Roslyn. (Vicki Viruet)