A legendary small car receives an electric motor
With the world premiere of an extraordinary car at the New York International Auto Show (March 30 - April 8, 2018), the British manufacturer MINI once again demonstrates the interest in pure electric driving through a novel approach around an emblematic model.
The Mini Electric classic combines the historic design of the legendary small-car with state-of-the-art propulsion technology. With this unique car, the MINI demonstrates its commitment to preserving the brand's unmistakable brand while embracing innovative electric technology.
Classic Mini Electric is the result of a time imaginary journey, where the story of the classic model is extended with a chapter. The original in the second half of the twentieth century becomes the ambassador for ecological awareness and a form of sustainable mobility whose future has just begun.
The MINI Electric Concept was announced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2017, and opens the way for the brand's first electric car to be presented in 2019 - in time for the 60th anniversary of the classic Mini. The full-electric model version is currently in development phase, based on the three-door MINI Hatch. The new electric model will be produced next year for the first time at the MINI plant in Oxford.
Once again, the MINI assumes the role of a pioneer for sustainable mobility within the BMW Group. In 2008, the brand introduced the MINI E - based on the previous model of the current three-door MINI Hatch, about 600 copies were produced and used in a daily traffic test. This test has played an important role in opening the way for the development of the BMW i3, which has been globally successful since 2013.
On the way to a new era of electric mobility, the MINI has already taken another important step. With the hybrid model MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4, the combination of thermal and electric propulsion offers a 165 kW / 224 hp power system and a hybrid full-stroke system specific to a hybrid plug-in version. The five-door premium-class model of the compact class ensures driving pleasure on any ground. The car pulls its power from both engines for strong acceleration, but retains the ability to run in pure electric mode at speeds of up to 125 km / h. With these qualities, MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 has a significant contribution to the global market success of the electrified BMW Group car fleet.
On the other hand, the classic Mini Electric to be presented in New York will remain unique. An old and carefully restored piece of the classic Mini was the basis for this special car. The red color of the exterior is complemented by the contrasting white roof and strips on the hood, while the yellow MINI Electric logo is found in the brand logo and wheel hub. The electric class remains faithful to the brand, both in terms of visual appearance and driving characteristics. Spontaneous acceleration of the electric motor offers a new dimension of unmistakable go-kart sentiment that has helped propel the British car in its original form to popularity worldwide.