SMART has taken the next step in what the Mercedes-owned company calls its programme for future urban mobility with news that the ‘escooter' will be launched in 2014.

The news comes just ahead of the imminent UK arrival of the smart fortwo electric drive model, while delivery to customers of the first ebikes is just beginning.

All three products were originally unveiled by smart at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, and the design of the fully electric escooter is being developed and further refined. And like the ebike, it is expected to appeal to customers who have no driver's licence for cars.

Mercedes-Benz vice president Dr Joachim Schmidt said: "The decision in favour of the escooter has been made. With this step, we are adding a further important component to our smart mobility concept for urban mobility in the future."

And smart chief Dr Annette Winkler added: "Anyone who thinks of urban mobility has to think of smart. We offer the perfect zero-emissions vehicle for every requirement, and with our products, electric travel is a lot of fun too."