Synergy Mini E-Drive

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Not the Mini-E, but a pretty decent conversion:

MINI E-Drive | First Drives | Car Reviews | Auto Express

We drove this Synergy E-drive version of the MINI, and although it’s a prototype – based on the MkI hatch – it’s very close to going on sale. The model isn’t to be confused with the official MINI E, and is an affordable, desirable and easy-to-use all-electric alternative to a petrol car. It’s engineered and built by London-based company Synergy Innovations.

Unlike the big-budget MINI E, which ditches the back seats and boot to make room for its batteries, the E-drive makes no such compromises, as the power pack is stowed under the boot floor. Inside, there’s a chunky central switch to select forward, reverse or park, and a large LCD screen on the dash which shows real-time performance data.

Price: £25,000 (est)
Batteries: 288V lithium polymer
Power/torque: 116bhp/190Nm
Transmission: Single gear, direct drive
0-62mph: 10 seconds
Top speed: 95mph
Range: 70-90 miles
Charging time: 4-6 hours
Equipment: Charging cable, broadband Internet, Bluetooth audio streaming, regenerative braking, ABS, multifunction steering wheel
On sale: 2010

It's not clear if that £25k includes the donor vehicle, but if so, it's a bargain.


BTW, this week's Auto Express newsletter included 2 stories on factory EVs, 2 on conversions and 1 new hybrid. That would never have happened a year ago - I'm sure Tesla has a lot to do with that :smile:

 

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Synergy Innovations bringing electric MINI to Auto X Prize

 

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