BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich. — Smart USA announced Monday the launch of the "smart USA Advance Program," which advances to dealers the applicable credit under the government-funded Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS) when an eligible vehicle is traded in with the purchase of a smart fortwo.

"Based on the incredible consumer interest to our industry-leading, $99 per month special financing offer, we felt the next logical step was to allow consumers to begin taking advantage of the CARS program immediately," said Dave Schembri, president of smart USA.

Previously, smart USA announced to consumers a $99 per month financing option, just after the government-funded CARS program was passed into law. The $99 per month offer is not a lease; rather it is an affordable way for consumers to purchase a smart fortwo, which has a combined fuel economy rating of 36 mpg. Under the offer, eligible customers will pay $99 per month for 35 months with a lump sum due at the end of this period. Consumers will own their smart fortwo, benefit from its low cost of ownership, and have the option of using the residual value of the vehicle toward the final lump sum payment.

Eligible smart fortwo buyers with a trade-in vehicle that fulfills the CARS program requirements are expected to receive the $4,500 maximum credit allowed under the program. Smart USA has set aside a limited number of vehicles for immediate delivery in conjunction with this program.

For more information about the $99 per month financing offer or to locate a dealership, visit www.smartusa.com, or call 1-800-smartusa.