The MINI is one of the most iconic vehicles in automobile history – and now it is embracing the green generation as the BMW Group announces it will introduce a battery-electric MINI E at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.
The MINI E will be based on the current MINI and will be initially available as a two-seater with a fleet of around 500 to be deployed for private use. However, where this version differs is that the space taken up by the back-seat passengers has now been reserved for a lithium-ion battery pack – a 380V storage unit with 5,088 cells grouped into 48 modules.
Drivers will be able to plug the battery into all standard power outlets with charge times dependent on the voltage and amperage of electricity in the grid. In the USA, MINI is likely to supply customers with a fast-charging wall-box that can be installed in garages and provides a full recharge after just 2.5 hours. The system is further boosted by regenerative braking which can extend range by as much as 20 per cent.
So what are the statistics for the new vehicle? Well the electric drive train has a peak torque of 220Nm (162lb-ft) and can race from 0-100kph in just 8.5 seconds. Top speed is likely to be around 95mph with a range of around 150 miles.
The limited production series will be manufactured through to the end of 2008 at both the Oxford and Munich sites.
