I have tried to buy one of these but despite my many arguments/pleading they are unwilling to sell any just yet:-(

My guess is that they want to have an extended test period and only sell the second generation.

Unfortunately Daimler/Mercedes are selling a fleet that is very much gas guzzling. The Smart cars are a tiny proportion,.

The Th!nk should be on the UK market fairly soon:
http://www.gizmag.com/ukp14000-thnk-city-electric-car-ready-for-showroom...
UKP14,000 TH!NK city electric car ready for showrooms

You have to pay a battery charge too:
http://www.motoring.co.za/index.php?fSectionId=&fArticleId=4319401
motoring.co.za - TH!NK electric city car ready for sale

Those of us in the UK are getting together to try to take whatever action we can, and staying in touch via e-mail.
Since we haven't got your e-mail address, you might like to contact me via my e-mail, address in my profile, if you are interested.
Regards,