The Smart clutch is not a fluid coupling!

Many of you, like me, may think the clutch system on the Smart is like any other automatic transmission, i.e. a fluid coupling, and that the only downside of slipping is the addition of heat to the fluid. NOT SO!!! The clutch on the Smart is just like any standard transmission. It uses an electric actuator rather than a clutch pedal to disengage. It is a dry clutch disc, and the downside of slipping is damage and subsequently destruction of the disc. Slipping occurs at every start/stop and every gear change. It also occurs if you are creeping forward at a stop light or in heavy commute traffic, or if you are backing up slowly. You need to think about this in your driving style or your clutch is going to be gone early. Towing potentially makes it worse, although I believe a deliberate and knowlegeable driving style can minimize the issue to the point of non-issue. In general, don't ask for a lot of torque at low RPM and get the thing moving without a lot of delay. Minimize "creeping" at lights and in traffic.

I've heard of some performance clutch plates but don't know if anything is for the 451 model yet. Anybody have experience with this?
Mike