More Mini electrics

A Mini electric concept will be showcased at the IAA Cars 2017 show in Frankfurt on September 14-24.

Designed for urban use, an all-electric series-production model is expected in 2019.

“The MINI electric concept offers a thrilling preview of the all-electric production vehicle. Mini and electrification make a perfect match,” BMW AG management board chairman Harald Krüger says.

The responsive drive system, suspension tuning and use of aerodynamic add-ons produce driving dynamics very much in the Mini mould and a fine operating range.

Nearly ten years ago, the Mini E laid the foundations at the BMW Group for the development of electric mobility solutions to production readiness.

It was first all-electric car from the BMW Group to be driven by private users in everyday traffic conditions, as part of an extensive field trial.

More than 600 Mini E cars entered service worldwide for the trial, the information subsequently incorporated into the development of the BMW i3.

The British premium brand’s first series-production model with a plug-in hybrid drive system was presented in spring 2017, the Mini Cooper S E Countryman ALL4.

The Mini electric concept continues the bloodline, with all electrified products soon to be grouped under the “Mini Electric” banner.

A hexagonal radiator grille and circular headlights make the Mini electric concept instantly recognisable. Identifying features include the vividly contrasting silver and yellow colour scheme reminiscent of the earlier Mini E, as well as the distinctive E badge. Besides this, the radiator grille and LED headlights have been reinterpreted to reflect the emission-free drive technology. As the electric drive unit requires very little cooling air, the radiator grille is closed for superior aerodynamics.

The front apron’s simulated “air intakes” are also sealed, yet still include dark louvres that look like cooling fins.

Clearly moulded fibreglass add-on parts along the lower edge intensify the car’s snappy proportions. The paint finish in Reflection Silver – a matt liquid metal colour.

The roof colour flows from matt white to high-gloss yellow, while the yellow of the side skirts gains in transparency as it rises, appearing to merge into the body colour.

It has dark-coloured 19-inch wheels. The aerodynamic inlays – made using a 3D printing process – echo the fibreglass structure of the air deflectors and provide aesthetic appeal. The recessed louvered surfaces in the simulated air intakes were also produced using a 3D printing method.

Further details on the Mini electric concept are expected closer to its 2019 launch.