Mini Electrifies Past, Future With Electric Concept Duo: Photo Gallery
With a (mini) foot in the past and one in the future, Mini unveiled the Classic Mini Electric concept at the 2018 New York International Auto Show, combining the styling of a classic Mini Cooper with new electric-drive technology. Also on hand was the regular Mini Electric Concept that the automaker debuted last year at the 2017 Frankfurt auto show.
Related: More 2018 New York Auto Show Coverage
The Classic concept builds off of the Mini Electric Concept, which previews the automaker’s first all-electric vehicle. Mini says the production version will be unveiled in 2019 — which marks the original Mini’s 60th anniversary — and be based on the two-door version of the Mini Hardtop.
The Reflection Silver and Striking Yellow colors of the Electric Concept, coupled with its closed front grille and hooded headlights, look futuristic. Charging plug icons dot the exterior: They’re in the headlights, charging hub, rearview mirror turning indicators and exterior paint. Out back, the rear LED taillights show the British Union Jack flag, with one half of the flag displayed on each light.
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In contrast, the Classic concept wears the heritage model’s squat, mushroom-like silhouette and round multi-headlight design. The red Mini’s paint is contrasted with a white roof and dual hood stripes, as well as a yellow Mini Electric logo in the grille and on the wheel hubs.
Specs on either model weren’t given, but we expect the production model will use a version of the BMW i3’s electric powertrain. Mini said the new electric setup won’t compromise the vehicle’s spunky spirit.
“The spontaneous power of its electric motor provides a new dimension to the unmistakable go-kart feeling that helped propel the British small car in its original form to worldwide popularity,” the automaker said in a statement.
Check out the photo galleries for more.
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