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Electric MINI Could Come Around in 2015 - Report

The UKL platform is a huge deal for BMW and MINI alike. At first we were rather not impressed with it but as time goes by we realized that nearly 40 percent of the upcoming new models from the German Group will be using it. In the limelight, right not, are the cars built by the British brand.
Electric MINI 1 photo
Photo: MINI
According to Automotive News, big moves are scheduled in Oxford over the next few years. Starting with 2015, a huge project will kick off, seeing the brands release up to 12 new models. Amongst them one that shows particular interest for us and the MINI brand aficionados all over the world.

It seems like an all-electric MINI is in the works, to be released as soon as next year. That would be an extremely smart move from the British company that would tap into the niche they are going after: the tech-savvy, environmentally protective young people out there, with money to spend on such frivolities.

Already, the hardtop is viewed as a city-car. Give it a more eco-friendly powerplant and you get a recipe for success. Using CFRP and other lightweight materials straight off the i3 and i8, would make the new EV MINI different from what early adopters experience on the Active E test cars.

Back in 2009, BMW invited curious people to take up the challenge to become what they call ‘Electronauts’. They were given modified Minis that were basically the forefathers of the i3. Over the next few years, these people covered over 2 million miles and reported all sorts of issues and faults with the cars, to help develop the i sub-brand. However, those things were not fun to drive.

Due to their immense weight, the handling was terrible and the extra half a ton of batteries was not nearly as satisfying as you would think. Things will be different on the new models though. With a weight expected to fall under the 1,500 kg (3,300 lbs) limit and plenty of batteries to go around, the new models will be quite successful, if they are eventually launched.

If we’re to believe the AN report, the Electric Mini will also be joined by a new convertible and the new 5-door hardtop next year. In 2017 we’ll also get to see the new Countryman while the Paceman will be refreshed in 2018.
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