[Tandy]

It looks like another test mule was recently spotted, and the new spy shot gives us a first glimpse of its interior. I can see why Mini has been so secretive with its cabin, as it still looks to far away from production ready. It does look like it will continue to use their circular display system however.

 

[AlexL]

Looks pretty done to me in the sense that it’ll presumably just look like the F56 interior with some decorative changes. The main difference is the gauges which are under a cloth so presumably they do look different to all other F56 models. My assumption would be a small LCD display just like the i3.... maybe a bit curvy just to be different 😄

The other spy shots reveal minimal stuff. Has CCS charging so that’s good (but expected) fun to also see the unique wheel design for the EV - basically like the concept but in a reasonable size I guess 16”. You can probably find out if the spy shots are high enough resolution!

 

[MiniFootPrint]

I was hoping this EV version would at least have some unique interior design going on. After all its part of the brands new direction and this could help to sway buyers over from regular Mini's. Just having an electric powertrain won't cut it. An entirely new experience will.

 

[Coops]

I didn't anticipate that Mini would stray to far from the formula with their first EV, as I think the main interest is going to come from current owners. I think its the pricing/specs that will bring newcomers to the brand, and considering the 100 mile range of the Mini E, which launched in 2009 it shouldn't be too difficult for them to improve upon that.

 

[MiniFootPrint]

That being the case I guess these won't be too far off in price from current versions.

However I still think there's a market for a higher spec Mini EV. It can slot perfectly behind what BMW will be offering.

 

[Tandy]

I do wonder what sort of trim levels we'll see for the EV, as I agree that they could see more successful sales by offering cheaper entry level trims, and high range/performance ones. I do expect that this model will be more expensive than both the Leaf and Bolt.

 

[Coops]

Mini has always been considered a premium brand, and hopefully with electrification the criticisms around their build quality and reliability become a nonfactor. And even the new high range trim of the Leaf is going to see a price jump, with its larger battery and more powerful electric motor.

 

[Tandy]

Yeah I saw that the new Leaf is going to have around 200hp and should be able to go around 200 miles on a charge. Its pretty impressive how quickly they are already making improvements to the platform. Though this could very well alienate owners of the current model.

 

[MiniFootPrint]

Biggest challenge for car makers now is coming out with superchargers that don't degrade batteries over time.

It will also be a key part of my buying decision, 200 miles is great but time beyond what we spend at gas stations to top up will discourage me.

 

[Coops]

I don't really think there is any way to stop battery degradation, though proper cooling systems due seem to improve their overall lifetime. I know that Tesla has one of the longest lasting batteries, with a slight drop-off in the first few years of ownership, which then levels out.

 

[MiniFootPrint]

I don't really think there is any way to stop battery degradation, though proper cooling systems due seem to improve their overall lifetime. I know that Tesla has one of the longest lasting batteries, with a slight drop-off in the first few years of ownership, which then levels out.

There won't be for a long time, all car makers can do for now is prolong the process and eventually get to a point that replacing and servicing batteries are affordable.

 

[Tandy]

Well vehicle to grid charging is looking like it could be a proper solution to this problem. Supposedly continuous drain/charge cycles actually improve the lifetime of a battery, so long as its at gradual rates.

 

[MiniFootPrint]

I realized in key Tesla markets, that's the case. Supercharging stations are easy to find for most owners and in convenient locations.
A friend of mine typically parks his Tesla at the Mall and jumps on the Subway, then comes back to a fully charged car. Even a 20 minute stop for coffee does it.