Electric powered MINI charges up sales charts

The lithium-ion powered MINI E is proving to be a sales hit. The sparky MINI is only available in the US, and then only in three states (California, New York and New Jersey). However, lessors have been racing to sign up for the US$850 per month payments. During this initial pilot program there will be 250 cars offered in California and 250 split between New York and New Jersey. “Owners” sign up for a 12 month lease, with the possibility of an extension. Although, demand is believed to be four times what MINI can satisfy, so perhaps lease extensions may not be as simple as first thought.

The MINI E only has two seats, but the excitement it is creating in the market has not deterred eager customers. Speaking to Bloomberg.com Mario Soto, a 45-year-old graphic designer and father of three, said “I’ve got to take my kids to school, so the car makes no sense for me from a practical point of view. But I kinda want to be part of this.”

The MINI E has shown the go-kart philosophy of the MINI brand extends into the green market. Josh Lewis, from rawautos.com, who test-drove the MINI E last November said, “I’m all about saving the world, one car at a time if necessary. But I want to have a good time in my car. That’s exactly what the MINI E gives me.”

The up front costs of the MINI E is quite a lot more than a petrol powered MINI, which can be leased for just US$250 per month, however, the cost of the electricity needed to power the car could be as much as 40% less, based on current fuel prices.

Source: Bloomberg.com via MotoringFile