Just in time for the Los Angeles Motor Show, BMW has released the first images of the all new fully electric Mini E! We’ve hinted at it before, and it was just a matter time before it was unveiled, complete with a 204hp fully electric engine, a regenerative braking system, and a range of 150 miles.
The Electric Mini will be use a lithium-ion battery to power a 204 horsepower electric motor. Instead of a gas tank, the mini comes equiped with an electric socket for charging. To save energy, the mini’s top speed will be limited to around 95mph, and a single charge will take you 150 miles.
Rather than releasing the Mini E as soon as possible, BMW has decided to conduct a limited test run of 500 vehicles to investigate the viability of such a vehicle in New York, Los Angeles, New Jersey, and possibly London. We could probably save them the headache by saying “yes, it will be viable, and we want one”.
The Electric Mini will be officially unveiled next month in Los Angeles.
Via Autocar
Unfortunately, early adopters of new technology always pay the premium price. When it does catch on then the price drops and normal schleps like us can afford it. It is very encouraging to see a major car manufacturer embrace the all-electric mode.
Rather than aesthetics, I am wondering about cost. There is not yet an alternative fuel vehicle on the market even remotely affordable for the majority. The Mini never was in that demographic and I do not expect this one to be. I guess I am just tired of slick, efficient but opps! WAY to expensive.
Hopefully the actual mini doesn’t come out with all those goofy yellow logos plastered all over the chassis. The yellow accent colours in the interior make me wonder if they are meant to stay?…