Sixty years after the iconic Mini first hit the streets, a British technology company has unveiled the first production electric classic Mini. The Swind E Classic Mini combines a fully-restored body and bespoke powertrain developed in-house by Swindon Powertrain.
Produced in Wiltshire at the firm’s recently-upgraded facility, the Swind E Classic Mini instils all the affection of the original with state-of-the-art EV technology to create an individual, nippy, zero-emissions city car with character. While retaining the same look, proportions and spirit of the original Mini, the bespoke 80kw motor and single transmission ensures responsive and smooth power that can be used without incurring congestion charge fees. Available to order immediately in either left- or right-hand-drive, the limited production run of 100 cars starts at £79,000 and comes with an unlimited mileage one-year warranty and MOT.
Standard features include a Lithium Ion battery containing 24kWh of energy and electric motor producing 80kw of power (the equivalent of 110bhp).
Fully charged in four hours via a female Type 2 connector (with a fast charging option available) the range is 125 miles (200km) with a regenerative braking system. Top speed is 80mph (130km/h) with 0 to 60mph (0-100km/h) in 9.2 seconds.
This highly-advanced Swind E Classic Mini is the brainchild of Swindon Powertrain’s managing director Raphael Caillé, who saw an opportunity to produce an electric car with a soul that people from all walks of life would instantly fall in love with. “This is the first time an electrified classic Mini has entered production,” confirmed Caillé. “There have been one-offs and prototypes before, but Swind is the first company to launch such a car to the public. The classic Mini has such a special place in people’s hearts, not only in the UK but around the world. The packaging of Sir Alec Issigonis’ 1959 design was truly ground-breaking and now we are making it relevant again. Its compact size and good visibility, together with contemporary performance and handling, makes it a car you’ll want to drive in the city and put a smile on your face.”
