THE first ever book charting the history of smart, the iconic automotive brand, went on sale in early August.

Published in the UK by Motorbooks International, smart thinking traces the decade-long history of the radical and exciting project that was so far ahead of its time. It brings together the colourful personalities, brilliant ideas and visionary leaders who were inspired to create one of the most fashionable and stylish automotive brands on the market today.

Author Tony Lewin has spent most of his working life driving cars, analysing them and reporting on the ups and downs of the global enterprises which build them. "smart is still a young brand but its story had already been a dramatic one," he said. "Car industry bosses are often wary of radical ideas but smart has won them over. smart is friendly, funky and fun - its time has now come."

smart thinking is priced at £16.99 in hardback and is available from all good bookstores.