The MINI E trials in the UK officially began today (13th December 2009) when 40 of examples of the all electric MINI were handed over to their new keepers at Plant Oxford.
The UK MINI E trials, which are similar in nature to those already underway in the US and Germany will, according to parent company BMW “evaluate the psychological, social and technical aspects of living with an electric car”.
The “Pioneers Package” which the cars are being leased under means that trialists will pay £330 per month, including VAT for the six month duration of the lease. After six months, a second round of trials, with a new batch of candidates testing the vehicles, will take place.
The cost of charging the MINI E from flat has been estimated at around £1.50 at off-peak rates and £4 during peak periods. This means that if you were to charge your MINI E at off-peak rates, BMW estimate the cost at just over a penny a mile for fuel. All other servicing and maintenance costs will be covered by the monthly lease.
This is a historic day for MINI and for the BMW Group
Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW Group (UK) was quoted as saying in a BMW press release.
It is fitting that the brand with its inspiration in the oil crisis of the 1950s is again at the forefront of energy efficiency with a car that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Tags: bmw group plant oxford, mini e, MINI E Field Trails, MINI E UK, plant oxford
