Mini’s Electric Concept Promises Instant Torque and Go-Kart Handling

Earlier this year, Mini confirmed that it would offer a new electric car for 2019. It already sells a plug-in hybrid version of the Countryman crossover, but the new electric model will be based on the three-door Mini Hardtop. Today, Mini previewed that car with the Electric Concept.

Details on the car’s power and range aren’t available for now, but it’s possible some of the concept’s styling will make it to production. We assume the asymmetrical wheels will be dropped, but you never know about the cool taillights and the relatively aggressive aero package. Plus, while the focus has been put on differentiating the Electric Concept with a unique look, the car itself is reportedly drivable.

“With its characteristic go-kart feeling and powerful electric motor, the MINI Electric Concept is great fun to drive while also being completely suitable for everyday use—and producing zero emissions to boot. That’s how we at MINI envisage electric mobility in tomorrow’s world,” Peter Schwarzenbauer, a BMW Group board member, said in a statement.

Previously, Mini offered the Mini E as an ultra limited-edition electric car. But despite only a few hundred being made available in the U.S., the Mini E proved to be “an astonishingly capable little car.” It had a top speed of 95 mph, was quicker to 60 mph than the gas-powered car, and had a range of 150 miles.

As fun as the first electric Mini was, we have high hopes for the next one. Look for the Mini Electric Concept to make its debut at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

Source: Mini

 

The post Mini’s Electric Concept Promises Instant Torque and Go-Kart Handling appeared first on Motor Trend.

from Motor Trend http://ift.tt/2vIavf9