Switched on Mini

The Mini E trial went live as cars were handed over to 40 pioneering drivers at Plant Oxford, offering the first opportunity for real-world drivers to experience what parent company BMW describes as "a fast charging, fun to drive, longer range electric car" under everyday conditions. The 12 month trial will evaluate the psychological, social and technical aspects of living with an all-electric vehicle The handover to the 40 test drivers, who are all members of the public, marks the start of two consecutive six-month field trial periods, the findings from which will be used both to inform the BMW Group engineering teams, as they create zero emissions vehicles for the future, and the wider world to help guide power providers, policy makers and component manufacturers in their decision making. The BMW Group has played a pioneering role in the development of sustainable private transport through ever more efficient petrol and diesel power plants. This is being achieved through the comprehensive application of a wide range of technologies, collectively known as Efficient Dynamics. More than 1.6 million cars worldwide have been sold with Efficient Dynamics technology integrated into their design. The company also has a long-term commitment to the development of both hybrid and hydrogen powertrains. " Tim Abbott, managing director of BMW Group (UK) said: "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." The trial is a collaborative effort within a BMW Group UK-led consortium. Additional funding is provided by the Government-backed Technology Strategy Board and the Department for Transport (DFT) as part of a UK-wide programme involving trials of 340 ultra-low carbon vehicles from several manufacturers. To cover the research and investment costs of the project a Mini E would normally cost in the region of £550 a month to lease, however part funding from the Government's Technology Strategy Board means that the lease cost to the pioneer drivers is £330 per month, which includes VAT, insurance, service and maintenance. Over and above this payment, the only other costs they will incur are for the electricity they use when charging their car. A full charge at home (for a completely flat battery) costs £1.50 using off-peak electricity or around £4 when charging during peak hours. This translates to just over a penny a mile when charging off-peak.