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World's Smallest Cars

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By Chi-Chu Tschang and Hiroko Tashiro

World's Smallest Cars

The plunge in oil prices since their highs last July may have relieved some of the anxiety drivers feel when pulling up to the gas pump, but auto makers are still betting on consumers favoring more fuel efficient cars. After all, it wasn't just high oil prices that were sending car buyers to small cars. Several progressive governments, including Australia, Canada and China, have come out with policies to encourage their citizens to buy gas sippers.

Auto makers have responded by coming out with mini cars that can squeeze in the tightest parking spots. Some have brought back classics such as the BMW Isetta, Fiat 500, and Mini Cooper, albeit more fuel efficient versions. Others are planning to come out hybrids or electric vehicles this year or next year. Many multinational car manufacturers are selling these small, fuel efficient cars abroad, particularly emerging markets where locals earn less money yet want cleaner cars. At the same time, auto companies from China and India are also entering the game and coming out with their small cars with hopes of eventually exporting their cars overseas. Heres a look at some of the worlds smallest autos.