[Coops]

So even though its highly unlikely that we will see a production model of the retro Mini EV, the guys over at Jalopnik had the chance to give this limited concept a test drive. Have to say that I love how this little concept sounds, and I hope we get something similar in the Mini EV. Looks like it just features a special electric gear, otherwise its a regular ICE.

 

[Tandy]

I love the idea of a traditional ICE with an electric gear for city driving. Actually pretty decent all electric range of 60 miles as well. If these kinds of results can be found in a conversion, Mini should have no issue in delivering a full fledged model.

 

[Coops]

Pretty incredible what they were able to accomplish with a simple bolt on electric engine. That all electric range is better than what's offered in most hybrids on the market. If Mini had brought a production model like this to market, I think there would be a lot more interest in the EV.

 

[Tandy]

I think its all electric range is only so high because of how small and lightweight the classic Mini is. If the Mini EV is similar in size to that of the Clubman, its going to require a much larger electric engine and battery.

 

[MiniFootPrint]

As long as they're able to deliver on a product that can get all the range an average owner needs and does it at a price that raises few questions then they will have a winner.
Mini is at a unique spot where they can do just that.

 

[Tandy]

I wonder what it would take to get this model to meet todays safety standards. I have a feeling that's the main factor from preventing automakers from re-releasing classic designs. At least it looks like we'll be seeing the VW Bus return.

 

[MiniFootPrint]

I wonder what it would take to get this model to meet todays safety standards. I have a feeling that's the main factor from preventing automakers from re-releasing classic designs. At least it looks like we'll be seeing the VW Bus return.

It all comes down to how it measures in todays crash tests. If you look at how cars of even 10-15 years ago do in today's testing, they can be seen as inferior. The further back you go the uglier it gets and lets not forget everyone's favorite:

If you ask me, Mini carries enough of its classic design DNA well enough.

 

[Coops]

With everyone moving towards larger, more utility focused vehicles, I don't know how much demand there would be for smaller model like the classic, as cool as it is. I think its more likely we'll see them move in the opposite direction and offer a crossover variant that comes with increased ride height.

 

[Tandy]

Yeah I think there is a much bigger chance that the Mini will get larger as opposed to smaller. I'm a little surprised that BMW has been so slow to jump on the crossover bandwagon. Even the X2 looks more like a traditional SUV.

 

[MiniFootPrint]

With everyone moving towards larger, more utility focused vehicles, I don't know how much demand there would be for smaller model like the classic, as cool as it is. I think its more likely we'll see them move in the opposite direction and offer a crossover variant that comes with increased ride height.

It all comes down to price and as long as they can deliver on a price range that targets a large enough segment of buyers then the classic will live on. Its the ideal city car as far as size goes.

 

[Coops]

It all comes down to price and as long as they can deliver on a price range that targets a large enough segment of buyers then the classic will live on. Its the ideal city car as far as size goes.

Huh? This Mini classic is a one off model and you cant purchase it. I wasn't referring to the standard Cooper, as obviously they are going to continue selling that..