MINI Releases New Electric Concept

MINI has taken the wraps off its new Electric concept.

Set to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the Electric concept was designed to appeal to city dwellers and offers a "window into how pure-electric day-to-day mobility might look in the years ahead."

Looking like a futuristic MINI Cooper, the concept features a unique grille which is flanked by LED headlights and a sporty front bumper with "simulated air intakes.”

The racy styling continues further back as designers installed flush-mounted door handles and fiberglass side skirts. There are also distinctive 19-inch wheels which have aerodynamic inlays that were created by using a 3D printer.

The rear end is slightly more conventional as it boasts a tailgate-mounted spoiler and a fiberglass diffuser. MINI's British origins are also on display as the concept has bespoke LED taillights with Union Jack accents.

Motivation is provided by an electric powertrain which uses a "powerful" motor. There's no word on specifications but MINI says the concept is responsive and delivers a go-kart feeling.

The fact that the concept looks nearly production ready shouldn't come as much of a surprise as the company reaffirmed its commitment to launch a new electric vehicle in 2019. As BMW AG Chairman Harald Krüger explained, "The MINI Electric concept offers a thrilling preview of the all-electric production vehicle."