Going full electric is the direction of the automotive industry as various markets will soon ban the use of internal combustion engines (ICEs). Mini wants to future-proof its cars as the British marque now allows customers to convert their classic Mini models into electric vehicles (EVs) via the car brand’s Recharged project.
The British marque presents the MINI Recharged project
The idea for this project came about after Mini showcased an all-electric vehicle at the New York Auto Show in 2018. With the amount of admiration shown to the model, the car brand knew it had to do the same to the rest of the classic Minis, hence the Recharged project was founded.
“What the project team [is] developing preserves the character of the classic Mini and enables its fans to enjoy [an] all-electric performance. With MINI Recharged, we are connecting the past with the future of the brand,” said Mini Head Bernd Körber.
An effort to connect past and future
Under the Mini Recharged project, owners of a classic Mini with model years ranging from 1959 to 2000 can have their vehicles get a new electrified powertrain. This includes an electric motor that can deliver 121 horsepower, accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in nine seconds. A 6.6 kW battery enables an estimated range of around 160 km.
Mini models that will receive the electrification treatment obtain the characteristic central instrument cluster. This will be installed to show the necessary information of the new emission-free powertrain. It now displays the drive temperature, the selected gear, range, and speed.
Young at heart
The Mini Recharged project aims to combine the authentic Mini driving experience of the past and the sustainable benefits of the future. For now, it is only available exclusively in the United Kingdom. Conversions don’t need a new registration so owners don’t have to concern themselves about paperwork.
“Unique classic Mini models have always been created, including true works of art on wheels. That’s why future collaborations are also planned as part of the Mini Recharged program, allowing well-known artists to express their creativity with specially designed classic Mini models,” said Mini Global Brand Management Head Sebastian Beuchel.
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