Small car with big electric dreams
Mini’s fun-to-drive, zero-emission urban runabout expected to hit the market in late 2019
Recent Los Angeles Auto Shows have been showcases of green technology, but this year’s show was more about gas-powered SUVs than electrification.
Still, there was a handful of interesting EVs revealed, including the Mini EV.
What is it? An all-electric version of the beloved British icon, this threedoor hardtop is rumoured to be set for production in 2019. This isn’t the first go-round of a Mini EV during the second coming of the brand, now in the capable hands of BMW. Back in 2008, a fleet of 600 Mini Es was produced. They never made it to market, but this one will.
Why does it matter? Any all-new all-electric vehicle available to Canadian consumers matters, as the more options they have the more likely they are willing to dip their toe into the electric segment.
No word on the range of the Mini EV, but expect its lithium-ion battery pack to crest the all-important 200-kilometre marker.
When is it coming? With worldwide production slated for 2019, and Canada’s respectable adoption numbers when it comes to EVs, expect the Mini EV to arrive that year, though most likely in the latter half.
Should you buy it? If you’re looking for a zero-emission urban runabout that is infused with that unique, funto-drive Mini-vibe, yes you should. Don’t count on happy rear-seat passengers though, because the space back there — to say nothing about climbing in — is appropriate only for passengers strapped into car seats.