A fresh take on one of the most iconic designs in motoring will play a central role in the UK-wide trial of electric cars.

BMW has handed over 40 electric MINI E vehicles to test drivers at the start of two consecutive six-month field trial periods meant to evaluate the social, psychological and technical aspects of living with an electric car. The findings will be used to inform both BMW engineering teams and the wider world as decisions are made about the future of electric cars.

Typically, a BMW MINI E would cost in the region of £550 a month to lease. However, with funding from the Government’s Technology Strategy Board the lease cost is reduced to £330 a month and includes insurance, service, maintenance and VAT. The only other costs are for the electricity used to charge the car – with a full charge at home costing £1.50 using off-peak electricity; and around £4 during peak hours. 

The electrical infrastructure being used during the trial is supplied by Scottish and Southern Energy through its supply brand Southern Electric. It is committed to supplying ‘green energy’ from sustainable sources to the MINI E drivers. Meanwhile, Oxford Brookes University’s Sustainable Vehicle Engineering Centre will manage the research throughout the UK trial including analysis of driver experiences and reviews of the technical information provided by the data-logging units fitted to every MINI E.

As for the vehicle itself, it produces a peak torque of 220Nm and a power output equivalent to 204hp. It can accelerate from 0-62mph in 8.5 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 95mph. It is a two-seater and has a maximum capacity of 35kWh. A full recharge draws a maximum of 28kWh of electricity from the grid.