The company has shown an electrified version of the original Mini at the New York motor show. The car on display is based on a late version of the first Mini, which the firm completely restored and swapped its four-cylinder engine for a pure electric powerplant. Mini said it mixes “the brand’s unmistakable character whilst embracing zero local-emission technology”.
The company is looking at launching its first series production electric model, based on the three-door car sometime next year. The one-off Classic Mini Electric was created to showcase how the original city car recipe can be adapted for the future. Mini boss Sebastian Mackensen said this tactic takes the brand back to its core values, making next year’s production car launch “pivotal” to its future.
“We always joke and say if Issigonis was to invent the Mini today, it would definitely be an electric car,” said Mackensen. “It is the answer to current challenges, as the original Mini was in 1959.”