BMW is to deploy a fleet of 500 electric-powered Minis in the US as part of a real-world evaluation of the technology.
The Mini E will be powered by a 150 kW (204 hp) electric motor fed by a high-performance rechargeable lithium-ion battery, transferring its power to the front wheels via a single-stage helical gearbox nearly without a sound and entirely free of emissions.
Specially engineered for automobile use, the battery technology will have a range of more than 240 kilometers, or 150 miles. The Mini E will initially be made available to select private and corporate customers as part of a pilot project in the US states of California, New York and New Jersey. The possibility of offering the MINI E in Europe as well is currently being considered. The MINI E will give its world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19 and 20, 2008.
