Ahead of the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW unveiled the design concept of the Mini Electric that will be debuting at the show.
The concept vehicle is setting the tone for the first all-electric Mini production vehicle, which BMW plans to produce in 2019.
An all-electric Mini is probably the most long overdue electric vehicle.
Not only it’s an ideal segment to electrify due to its size and functionalities, but BMW’s early EV program, the Mini-E, was based on the Mini.
Back in 2008, they actually converted hundreds of Mini vehicles with all-electric drivetrains. The program led to the BMW i3, but never to an electric Mini for some reason.
Now almost a decade later, they are unveiling the design of the new Mini Electric Concept:
Based on the MINI 3 door, the vehicle certainly looks like a Mini, but it features several Mini E design accents that aren’t likely to make it to the production version.
BMW describes the vehicle in a press release:
“The MINI Electric Concept not only stands for increased driving fun, it also adds a touch more style in local emission-free city traffic. Its design combines hallmark brand proportions and design features with specific details reflecting the fact that is purely electrically powered. Since the electric motor does not require cooling air, the hexagonal front grille is closed in order to enhance the car’s aerodynamic properties. There are also fibre glass attachment parts that reduce aerodynamic drag.”
They didn’t release any spec yet. We should know more in Frankfurt next week.
Electrek’s Take
While there isn’t much to see here, this is a step toward BMW’s all-electric vehicle program for the British brand.
BMW reiterates that they plan to manufacture an all-electric Mini in “large-scale production in 2019.”
They have already taken steps toward that with preparation at their Dingolfing and Landshut sites, where the Mini Electric’s drivetrain will be produced, and now we are seeing the first step toward the design of the electric version.
What do you think? Let us know in the comment section below.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
Comments