SWNSYou can now buy an electric classic Mini as the British firm unveils a one-off version of its iconic car.
Perhaps the world’s most recognisable vehicle, more than five million classic Minis have been sold between 1959 and 2000, as its popularity has never died down.
Now the classic model is being given a 21st century update as the Oxford-based manufacturer is making it electric.
SWNSShowing off some new zero emission technology, the road-legal car has a range of 65 miles and top speed of 75mph thanks to its 30 lithium-iron phosphate batteries.
A statement from Mini reads:
With this unique vehicle, Mini sends out a clear signal demonstrating its commitment to retaining the brand’s unmistakable character whilst embracing innovative zero local emission technology.
The exterior red paint is complemented by a contrast white roof and characteristic bonnet strip, with the yellow Mini Electric logo in the brand emblem and on the wheel hubs.
The electric classic remains true to the brand, both in terms of its visual appearance and driving characteristics.
The spontaneous power of its electric motor provides a new dimension to the unmistakable go-kart feeling that helped propel the British small car in its original form to worldwide popularity.
The electric car was unveiled at the New York Auto Show. Unfortunately it will remain a one-off with no plans to mass produce the model.
SWNSHowever, Mini do add they are working on an electric version of their current three-door model which is planned to go on sale next year.
While the electric technology will be built at the BMW Group’s e-mobility centre in Bavaria, Germany, the car will be completed at its home in Oxford.
The three-door electric Mini is only one of a number of electrified models being launched by BMW and Mini in the next few years.
SWNSAfter the BMW i8 Roadster plug-in hybrid goes on sale this year, we will be getting an all-electric BMW X3 SUV in 2020 and then the BMW iNEXT in 2021.
BMW seem to know what they are doing when it comes to electric cars – their i3 is the world’s most popular premium one selling its 10,000th model in the UK recently.
Sales for what is known as alternatively-fuelled vehicles (AFV) have been on the rise as the range of options such as electric cars improves.
WikimediaIt is estimated that by 2020 there could be a total of 70,000 charging points across Britain which includes those on the road and at destinations.
By 2030 this number is expected to rise to over 500,000.
If you have a story you want to tell send it to UNILAD via [email protected]
