Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[BMW mull lengthening Mini E lease times]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/bmw-mull-lengthening-mini-e-lease-times/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/bmw-mull-lengthening-mini-e-lease-times/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/bmw-mull-lengthening-mini-e-lease-times/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mini E - Click above for high-res image gallery

There are reasons to criticize the Mini E leases that BMW is offering - for example, that BMW is using the program to game CARB's Zero Emission Vehicle credit system - but one of the undeniable problems on the ground was some trouble with slow home charging. Because of the trouble with some home chargers at the start of the program, the manager of Mini electric vehicle operations and strategy, Richard Steinberg, told Car and Driver that BMW is considering extending the leases. There are two reasons an extension would be good for the automaker: it would keep customers happy and to it would make sure the project is in operation long enough for BMW to get the data that it is looking for. This data includes information on how often the EV was charged and how it was driven. If people couldn't drive their EVs because they were not able to charge them, then BMW doesn't get its gigabytes of data, so an extension might be best all around. No word on if customers would have to pony up more money for the extra months.


Gallery: MINI E


[Source: Car and Driver]

BMW mull lengthening Mini E lease times originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric miniElectricMiniminimini emini e leaseMiniEMiniELeaseThu, 12 Nov 2009 13:06:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mini's future models roadmapped; big, small, efficient and diesel (maybe)]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/report-minis-future-models-roadmapped-big-small-efficient-a/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/report-minis-future-models-roadmapped-big-small-efficient-a/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/report-minis-future-models-roadmapped-big-small-efficient-a/#commentsFiled under: , ,


MINI Coupe Concept and Roadster Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you'll please forgive us our one tired cliché of the day... BMW has big plans in store for its smallest brand. In this case, quite literally as the next model that comes from Mini will reportedly be the long-expected Countryman crossover, which we can expect to hit the market in the first quarter of 2010. All-wheel drive will make an appearance on the soft-road 'ute, and - drumroll please - we hear that a diesel engine is under consideration for the U.S. market... but don't hold your breath just yet.

On the concept car front, BimmerFile reports that Mini is working up a Moke revival that will be shown at an undetermined auto show sometime next year that's described as a small Jeep Wrangler and known internally as the SpaceBox. We're also told to expect a more mainstream concept built off the four-door R60 Countryman platform that would theoretically go up against such respected players as the Volkswagen GTI hatchback. The last concept that is rumored to be in development would share its inspiration with the BMW Vision Concept and feature technology from the automaker's eco-friendly Project i initiative.

Finally, the crystal ball tells us that the well-liked Coupe Concept and Roadster Concept seen earlier this year at the Frankfurt Motor Show have been green-lighted for a hopeful 2012 debut. One year later, the stalwart Cooper hatchback is scheduled for its second major redesign since the Mini brand was first launched back in 2001, very possibly getting a new range of powerplants that will include three-cylinders for the very first time.



[Source: BimmerFile]

REPORT: Mini's future models roadmapped; big, small, efficient and diesel (maybe) originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cooperminimini coopermini countrymanmini countryman conceptMINI CrossoverMINI Crossover Conceptmini mokemini spaceboxmini visionMiniCooperMiniCountrymanMiniCountrymanConceptMiniCrossoverMiniCrossoverConceptMiniMokeMiniSpaceboxMiniVisionMon, 02 Nov 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[GM-Volt founder stranded, learns why EVs take so long to bring to market]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/gm-volt-founder-stranded-learns-why-evs-take-so-long-to-bring-t/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/gm-volt-founder-stranded-learns-why-evs-take-so-long-to-bring-t/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/gm-volt-founder-stranded-learns-why-evs-take-so-long-to-bring-t/#commentsFiled under: ,

MINI E - click above for high-res image gallery

Over the last several years, many of the fans of battery-powered vehicles here on ABG have asked quite vociferously why it's taking companies like General Motors so long to bring cars like the Volt to market. Many of you seem to think you can convert an existing platform and have it on the market in six months. While it is certainly plausible for individual conversions to be done in that time frame, mass production is a very different matter. Media guru Jeff Jarvis even recommended that automakers follow the Google model of just releasing cars as betas and fix them as they go along. We've already denounced that idea, but GM-Volt founder Lyle Dennis recently learned the hard way the down side of this approach.

Dennis is one of 500 Americans selected to test drive the MINI E for a year. He has had recurrent problems with the shift lever popping into neutral and, ultimately, BMW replaced an electronic control unit to "fix" the problem. It mostly went away until he hit a pothole recently that caused the car to go into neutral and stay there permanently. After the car was hauled away on a flat-bed, a similar solution rectified the problem but only after several days. Undoubtedly, this is an excellent way for BMW to learn the pitfalls of EV use in the real world and they have always maintained that the MINI E fleet is meant to do just that. In fact, BMW is planning to expand the trials to Australia.

This is the sort of issue that is normally found and fixed in the hundreds of thousands of miles of durability testing done before a car is put on sale. All of this applies to every new vehicle regardless of powertrain. Is this public beta testing really what you want automakers to do? Or would you rather be patient and have the car come to market right? I think most people would opt for the latter.

[Source: GM-Volt.com]

GM-Volt founder stranded, learns why EVs take so long to bring to market originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gm-voltLyle DennisLyleDennismini emini e testmini electricmini evMiniEMiniElectricMiniETestMiniEvtestingvehicle developmentvehicle testingVehicleDevelopmentVehicleTestingWed, 28 Oct 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[MINI selects 40 UK test drivers for MINI E leases]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/mini-selects-40-uk-test-drivers-for-mini-e-leases/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/mini-selects-40-uk-test-drivers-for-mini-e-leases/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/mini-selects-40-uk-test-drivers-for-mini-e-leases/#commentsFiled under: , ,


MINI E - Click above for high-res image gallery

Apparently drivers in the UK were not as enthralled by the prospect of leasing the battery-powered MINI E as Americans. While some 10,000 drivers were reported to have applied for the privilege of paying MINI to beta test the EV, only 515 wanted in on the UK test. Of those 40 were chosen, half of which are private users.

While Americans have to pay $850 per month for a year, British drivers get off with only £330 a month (approx $640 U.S.) for six months. All of the UK-based MINI Es will be in the southern part of the country, mostly between Oxford, London and Andover. Oxford is, of course, the site of the MINI factory and home base to the little cars. The cars will be delivered before Christmas and, hopefully, charging cords and wall boxes will be in place before the cars arrive.

Gallery: Electric MINI E


[Source: AutoExpress]

MINI selects 40 UK test drivers for MINI E leases originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>minimini emini e deliverymini e leasemini e londonmini e testmini electricMiniEMiniEDeliveryMiniELeaseMiniElectricMiniELondonMiniETestWed, 14 Oct 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[MINI Es gather in Long Beach]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/mini-es-gather-in-long-beach/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/mini-es-gather-in-long-beach/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/mini-es-gather-in-long-beach/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Yesterday, about 20 MINI E drivers brought their all-electric rides to Jesse James' Cisco Burger in Long Beach, California for a little plug-in love fest. MINI E driver Todd C. was there and sent in some pictures and said that it was the first West Coast get-together for MINI E owners. The meet-up was organized by the MINI E Facebook group and you can check out the group's wall posts for more details. From those reports, it seems that a lot of positive energy was shared, and EV drivers were happy to meet others who share their passion for plug-in cars. Todd reports that AC Propulsion was there with two MINI Es, including one with special, blacked out rims. Check out some pics of the meet-up in the gallery below. Thanks to Todd C. for the tip and pictures!

Gallery: MINI E get together at Cisco Burger


[Source: Todd C.]

MINI Es gather in Long Beach originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cisco burgercisco burgersCiscoBurgerCiscoBurgersmini emini e deliverymini electricmini evMiniEMiniEDeliveryMiniElectricMiniELondonMiniEvMon, 21 Sep 2009 17:02:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW accepting applications for lower-cost MINI E leases in UK]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/bmw-accepting-applications-for-lower-cost-mini-e-leases-in-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/bmw-accepting-applications-for-lower-cost-mini-e-leases-in-uk/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/bmw-accepting-applications-for-lower-cost-mini-e-leases-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: , ,


MINI E - Click above for high-res image gallery

Good news for southwest England residents who are fans of EVs and/or the MINI: BMW is now accepting applications for an allotment of 20 MINI E leases. Why is it good news that a company will take your money? Because these leases will be offered with a substantial price reduction. Thanks to a £25 million fund from the Technology Strategy Board, BMW will offer the £550 monthly leases for just £330, including VAT (sales tax), insurance and basic maintenance costs. The new lessees must have a private place to keep the car at their home, as they will get a 240V/32 amp charging unit from the Southern Electric utility that allows the batteries to be charged in about 4.5 hours. A full charge during low-demand hours will cost around £1.50 and it'll cost about £4 during peak hours. An additional adaptor for use with an ordinary 13 amp socket will also be supplied. Interested? The application can be found here. Full press release after the jump.

Gallery: Electric MINI E


[Source: Mini UK]

Continue reading BMW accepting applications for lower-cost MINI E leases in UK

BMW accepting applications for lower-cost MINI E leases in UK originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 17:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Englandmini britainmini emini e leasemini e test drivesMiniBritainMiniEminie leaseMiniELeaseMiniETestDrivessouth west englandSouthWestEnglandTue, 01 Sep 2009 17:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Germany setting sights on one million electric cars by 2020?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/germany-sets-sights-on-one-million-electric-cars-by-2020/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/germany-sets-sights-on-one-million-electric-cars-by-2020/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/germany-sets-sights-on-one-million-electric-cars-by-2020/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


MINI E - click above for high-res image gallery

According to a report from the Associated Press (via Drive.com.au), Germany is about to get serious about electric cars. How serious? Chancellor Angela Merkel's Cabinet is currently drafting a plan that would aim to put a million electric cars on German roadways by 2020.

To meet that lofty goal, a series of financial incentives are reportedly on the table that would start in 2012. It's not clear as of yet what these stimulus packages would include, but specifics are to be announced in the fall. We'd expect manufacturers, suppliers and consumers would all get some sort of incentive thrown their way to build or purchase EVs.

It's no secret that German automakers like Volkswagen, Daimler and BMW have lagged well behind Asian and American automakers in electric and hybrid vehicle production, largely focusing instead on diesel technology. BMW's first MINI-based EVs are currently undergoing large-scale testing and Daimler recently teamed up with Tesla Motors in America to advance its EV presence.


Gallery: MINI E


[Source: Drive.com.au]

Germany setting sights on one million electric cars by 2020? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angela merkelAngelaMerkelfalsegermanygermany electric vehiclesgermany evGermanyElectricVehiclesGermanyEvminimini coopermini emini evMiniCooperMiniEMiniEvWed, 19 Aug 2009 20:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Coda Automotive adds former MINI, VW exec as marketing officer]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/16/coda-automotive-adds-former-mini-vw-exec-as-marketing-officer/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/16/coda-automotive-adds-former-mini-vw-exec-as-marketing-officer/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/16/coda-automotive-adds-former-mini-vw-exec-as-marketing-officer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Code EV sedan - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Coda electric sedan just got a new advocate. Kerri Martin, who used to work for Harley-Davidson, BMW Motorcycles, MINI and Volkswagen "launching, building and reinvigorating some of the world's most iconic pop culture brands" over the past 15 years, has been hired as Coda Automotive's new chief marketing officer. Her first official statement as CMO: "I'm thrilled to be part of the electric vehicle movement, especially with Coda, a company that is intent on disrupting the category conventions and has the vision to reinvent the car buying and ownership experience."

The Coda EV is due next year. sedan has a range of between 90 and 120 miles, depending on driving conditions. Cost? $45,000 before incentives.

[Source: Coda Automotive]

Continue reading Coda Automotive adds former MINI, VW exec as marketing officer

Coda Automotive adds former MINI, VW exec as marketing officer originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 16 Aug 2009 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codacoda automotivecoda electric carCodaAutomotiveCodaElectricCarfalsekerri martinKerriMartinmiles evMilesEvSun, 16 Aug 2009 15:39:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW gets MINI E research assist from UC Davis in year-long study]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/14/bmw-gets-mini-e-research-assist-from-uc-davis-in-year-long-study/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/14/bmw-gets-mini-e-research-assist-from-uc-davis-in-year-long-study/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/14/bmw-gets-mini-e-research-assist-from-uc-davis-in-year-long-study/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MINI E - click above for high-res image gallery

The University of California at Davis has a long history of understanding plug-in vehicles and how people use plug-ins. After all, this is a school with a dedicated Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Research Center. The latest automaker to benefit from the UCD team is BMW, which is asking drivers of the all-electric MINI E how they use and what they think about their cars. The good news is that the findings of the year-long study will be made available to the public and the school believes it will "influence understanding of the future role of electric vehicles for many stakeholders, including electric utilities, governments and automakers." As a public university, it is fitting that UCD publish the results for all to see.

During the next year, UCD will ask 50 volunteer MINI E drivers questions, both online and in interviews, and will also collect data through travel diaries. The school will use a "global research methodology" that is also being used in the MINI E tests in Europe to collect and analyze the data.

Gallery: MINI E


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW gets MINI E research assist from UC Davis in year-long study

BMW gets MINI E research assist from UC Davis in year-long study originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw electric carbmw mini eBmwElectricCarBmwMiniEminimini eMiniEFri, 14 Aug 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[EV-TV perfects Porsche, now converting Clubman]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/ev-tv-perfects-porsche-now-converting-clubman/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/ev-tv-perfects-porsche-now-converting-clubman/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/ev-tv-perfects-porsche-now-converting-clubman/#commentsFiled under: , ,



In the "Can I convert a gas vehicle to electric" installation of our Greenlings series we featured a video of a very sweet '57 Porsche 356 Speedster reproduction from Special Edition that had an electric drivetrain installed in place of its original gas-burner. Jack Rickard, the man behind that project, has now begun a second conversion that, Speedster styling aside, should be even sweeter. Not only that, as part of his EV-TV website effort, every bit of the process is being filmed and posted for free on the Internets.

Once it's completed, the extended MINI will be packing 54 kWh of lithium badness to power its AC motor. That should give it a real world 150-mile range, leaving the official MINI E from BMW crying for an extension cord. All that and a back seat too! You can find all kinds of great information about the conversion and a wealth of related wisdom on his blog and catch up on several already completed episodes on his Cooper Clubman page. Can't spare that kind of time right now? Hit the jump for the introductory episode as well as a bonus video of his Speedster getting lots of love from his local news station.

[Source: EV-TV]

Continue reading EV-TV perfects Porsche, now converting Clubman

EV-TV perfects Porsche, now converting Clubman originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMW MINI ClubmanBmwMiniClubmanelectric Clubmanelectric conversionElectricClubmanElectricConversionEV-TVJack RickardJackRickardMINI ClubmanMINI EMiniClubmanMiniEWed, 12 Aug 2009 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: BMW and PSA partnership will go beyond engine sharing]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/rumor-bmw-and-psa-partnership-will-go-beyond-engine-sharing/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/rumor-bmw-and-psa-partnership-will-go-beyond-engine-sharing/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/rumor-bmw-and-psa-partnership-will-go-beyond-engine-sharing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



BMW and PSA share a couple powertrains: The diesel Minis have the 1.6 HDi developed by PSA, while the 1.4- and 1.6-liter gasoline engines were co-developed with BMW. However, BMW chief exec Norbert Reithofer has confirmed in the Financial Times that the two European automakers could begin sharing not just powertrains, but platforms as well - specifically with Mini. From here, we can speculate that the DS3 could form the underpinnings of a forthcoming Mini SUV? Perhaps a new Peugeot 207 John Cooper Works? Whatever happens, it won't be a new German-French auto alliance.

[Source Pistonheads via Le Blog Auto]

Rumor: BMW and PSA partnership will go beyond engine sharing originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliancealliancesjoint venturejoint venturesJointVentureJointVenturespsa alliancepsa-bmwpsa-miniPsaAlliancepsabwmshared platformsSharedPlatformsWed, 12 Aug 2009 09:04:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Inside Line resides over the battle of the fuel sippers]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/video-inside-line-resides-over-the-battle-of-the-fuel-sippers/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/video-inside-line-resides-over-the-battle-of-the-fuel-sippers/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/video-inside-line-resides-over-the-battle-of-the-fuel-sippers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Click above image to watch the video after the jump

Fuel efficiency is the big buzz word in marketing circles, and with good reason. 2008's record fuel prices appears to have finally curbed America's appetite for inefficient trucks and SUVs, and customers are demanding less pain at the pump. Several vehicles have been beneficiaries of the green car movement, and our friends over at Inside Line corralled three hybrids, a diesel and a supersized go-kart in the ultimate test of fuel economy prowess.

The Toyota Prius, Mini Cooper, Honda Insight, Ford Fusion and VW Jetta TDI were assembled to compete for the best fuel economy in city, highway and back road driving. IL also measured the cost to fuel each vehicle, and the amount of CO2 each vehicle emitted during the test. The five vehicles were prepped to do battle, but it wasn't much of a fight. The Toyota Prius won every conceivable category by a significant margin, with amazingly similar fuel economy between 47 and 48 mpg in all driving categories. The Prius also took on all comers in with regards to CO2 emissions, as the symbol of green motoring spewed .08 lbs less pollutants during the test than the second-place Honda Insight.

Hit the jump to view the entire video. Outside of the dominance of the Prius, we were a bit surprised how the other four vehicles ranked during the battle for MPG.

[Source: YouTube Inside Line]

VIDEO: Inside Line resides over the battle of the fuel sippers originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 07:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 mini cooper2009MiniCooper2010 ford fusion2010 honda insight2010 Jetta TDI2010 toyota prius2010FordFusion2010HondaInsight2010JettaTdi2010ToyotaPriusdieselford fusionFordFusionhonda insightHondaInsighthybridjetta tdiJettaTdimini cooperMiniCoopertoyota priusToyotaPriusWed, 12 Aug 2009 07:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Tales of woe from the electric car frontier, MINI E edition]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/tales-of-woe-from-the-electric-car-frontier-mini-e-edition/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/tales-of-woe-from-the-electric-car-frontier-mini-e-edition/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/tales-of-woe-from-the-electric-car-frontier-mini-e-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


MINI E - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've heard the stories about the charging problems with BMW's MINI E lease program and understand that paying $850 a month for one of these electric cars doesn't appeal to everyone. Still, the issues that some early adopters are dealing with with these EVs are pretty dramatic: the car going into neutral when you step on the accelerator is a big one, as is paying an extra $1,500 for a home wiring upgrade. Also, the MINI E sends out a warning that the batteries are too hot when the ambient temperature is high. BMW recommends that, when this happens, drivers take a break, maybe smell the roses or something like that. More standard ailments - like brakes that need repair - are also present in the MINI E fleet.

BusinessWeek makes the case that the people who are shelling out for the MINI Es are more than willing to put up with hassles than "regular" car. An auto analyst told BusinessWeek that, until there is a battery breakthrough, "some of these cars will go begging for buyers." But there's a possibility that this is the wrong way to look at the issue. For ages, people have put up with filling their vehicles at smelly gas stations every couple hundred miles. Will the relative ease and lower cost of driving on electrons - even with all of the inherent problems of the early technology - be able to make us rethink which is a bigger hassle some day?

Gallery: Quick Drive: MINI E


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: BusinessWeek]

Tales of woe from the electric car frontier, MINI E edition originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 19:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric car chargingelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarChargingElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevev chargingEvChargingfalsemini emini e chargingmini evMiniEMiniEChargingMiniEvWed, 05 Aug 2009 19:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Home charging: Renewable energy-powered MINI Es start testing in Munich]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/04/home-charging-renewable-energy-powered-mini-es-start-testing-in/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/04/home-charging-renewable-energy-powered-mini-es-start-testing-in/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/04/home-charging-renewable-energy-powered-mini-es-start-testing-in/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


MINI E - click above for high-res image gallery

BMW has officially announced a partnership with the E.ON utility company to test drive 15 MINI Es in Münich, Germany. E.On will provide electricity for the cars in 13 special charging stations near the Museumislen area of town. The juice for these stations will be certified to come from renewable energy sources, E.ON says. After launching the MINI E in the U.S. to customers this May, the all-electric MINI is now being tested in Germany, in Berlin and Münich. A fleet trial for Britain is also planned. The Münich test will take 12 months to complete and opens the door for a larger, more stable EV recharging network in the Bavarian Capital city down the road.

Gallery: MINI E



[Source: BMW]

Home charging: Renewable energy-powered MINI Es start testing in Munich originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bavariabayerne.on utilityE.onUtilitymini emini e testmini e test munichMiniEMiniETestMiniETestMunichmuenchenmunichTue, 04 Aug 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt preview: BMW announces plans for MINIMALISM display, special MINI editions]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/frankfurt-preview-bmw-announces-plans-for-minimalism-display-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/frankfurt-preview-bmw-announces-plans-for-minimalism-display-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/frankfurt-preview-bmw-announces-plans-for-minimalism-display-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


BMW's Frankfurt preview - Click above for high-res image gallery

The IAA Frankfurt Motor Show is still a month and a half away, but the BMW Group is gearing up to show the world that its three brands - BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce - include efficient and enjoyable driving machines. The BMW Groups vehicles will be displayed on a special circuit track that encloses all of Hall 11's exhibition space. The company wants to use the media and visitor attention to "set the stage for important social issues such as sustainability." BMW walks the walk, too, with a modular, reusable exhibition system that results in less waste than traditional display areas.

The BMW fleet in Frankfurt will include the ActiveHybrid 7, the ActiveHybrid X6, and world premieres of the 5 Series Gran Turismo and the BMW X1 as well as "further additional product surprises." For MINI, BMW is celebrating the brand's 50th anniversary with two new birthday editions: the MINI 50 Camden and the MINI 50 Mayfair. On the blatantly green front, the MINIMALISM concept, "a package of measures developed to optimize fuel consumption and to reduce emissions, which is presented in a futuristic area that offers great experiences," will also be on display. And then there's whatever Rolls-Royce will show.

Gallery: BMW Group at the IAA 2009

p90049749_highresp90049627_highresp90049625_highresp90049748_highresp90049756_highres

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Frankfurt preview: BMW announces plans for MINIMALISM display, special MINI editions

Frankfurt preview: BMW announces plans for MINIMALISM display, special MINI editions originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw frankfurtbmw iaaBmwFrankfurtBmwIaafalsefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowiaa 2009Iaa2009mini camdenmini mayfairMiniCamdenMiniMayfairThu, 30 Jul 2009 15:54:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: No R56-based Mini diesels bound for U.S.]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/report-no-r56-based-mini-diesels-bound-for-u-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/report-no-r56-based-mini-diesels-bound-for-u-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/report-no-r56-based-mini-diesels-bound-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2008 Mini Cooper D - Click above for high-res image gallery

And now to repeat one particular bit of news that's been playing over and over like a broken record since the modern Mini first made its appearance Stateside back in 2001 - there's little if any chance that the U.S. market will be blessed with an oil-burning Mini Cooper any time soon.

While Mini USA reportedly wants nothing more than to import the Mini D to America, the financial realities are such that the car will either cost way more than anyone is willing to pay (a ridiculous 40-50 percent premium is being bandied about) or sell at such a low price that Mini's German parents won't make a dime on the transaction.

That said, according to the Mini-obsessed boys at MotoringFile, it remains a possibility - however much a long-shot as it seems after all these years - that the next-generation R60 Mini could some day hit U.S. shores with an optional diesel. That would be welcome news indeed, but please excuse us for taking that tidbit with an appropriately large grain of salt.


Gallery: ABG Garage: 2008 MINI Cooper D


[Source: MotoringFile]

REPORT: No R56-based Mini diesels bound for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 09:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>minimini coopermini dmini dieselMiniCooperMiniDMiniDieselr56 minir56 mini dr56 mini dieselR56MiniR56MiniDR56MiniDieselr60 minir60 mini dr60 mini dieselR60MiniR60MiniDR60MiniDieselWed, 29 Jul 2009 09:13:00 EST<![CDATA[MINI E survives first fender bender]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/mini-e-survives-first-fender-bender/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/mini-e-survives-first-fender-bender/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/mini-e-survives-first-fender-bender/#commentsFiled under: ,


MINI E - Click above for high-res image gallery

The first accident we've heard of that involved a MINI E resulted in a dent in the rear hatch and not much else. The fender bender - which took place at low speeds and was apparently the fault of a large white van behind the all-electric MINI in stop-and-go traffic - wasn't related to anything about the car's powertrain.

We know about the accident to MINI E #438 thanks to the My MINI E blog, part of a true blossoming MINI E blog network (see here, here and here) that describe the joys of driving the converted cars (and quick charging) in a way that BMW must be glad to see. As long as those rear-seat batteries survive any upcoming crashed without issue, then we expect the positive reviews to keep coming. Thanks to Yanquetino for the tip!

Gallery: MINI E live reveal


[Source: My MINI E]

MINI E survives first fender bender originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw mini eBmwMiniEelectric carelectric car blogelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarBlogElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesmini emini e blogmini e crashmini electricmini evMiniEMiniEBlogMiniECrashMiniElectricMiniEvThu, 23 Jul 2009 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[MINI UK adds new entry-level First model to appeal to scrappers]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/18/mini-uk-adds-new-entry-level-first-model-to-appeal-to-scrappers/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/18/mini-uk-adds-new-entry-level-first-model-to-appeal-to-scrappers/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/18/mini-uk-adds-new-entry-level-first-model-to-appeal-to-scrappers/#commentsFiled under:



Ever since the modern MINI debuted earlier this decade, it has always been marketed as a premium small car. Even the least expensive variants were pricier than some comparable subcompacts. This has now changed. MINI UK has just added a new, lower-priced model specifically aimed at first time buyers and those taking advantage of the car scrappage program currently in effect in the United Kingdom.

The new MINI First gets a 75 hp version of the 1.4-liter engine that makes 95 hp in the MINI ONE. While the low-cost edition probably looses some interior features, it retains most of the important functional elements such stability control, automatic start-stop, brake energy regeneration and an up-shift indicator light. The low power engine gives a combined rating of 44.4 mpg (U.S.) and CO2 emissions of 128 g/km. The First is priced from £10,950 compared to £12,345 for the ONE.

[Source: MINI UK, AutoExpress]

MINI UK adds new entry-level First model to appeal to scrappers originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 18 Jul 2009 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>minimini firstmini ukMiniFirstMiniUkuk car scrappinguk scrappingUkCarScrappingUkScrappingSat, 18 Jul 2009 16:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Synergy Innovations bringing electric MINI to Auto X Prize]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/synergy-innovations-bringing-electric-mini-to-auto-x-prize/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/synergy-innovations-bringing-electric-mini-to-auto-x-prize/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/synergy-innovations-bringing-electric-mini-to-auto-x-prize/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Like BMW's official MINI E, but don't appreciate how the battery pack takes up most of the space behind the front seats? Synergy Innovations, one of the officially registered teams in the Automotive X Prize, is using a MINI as a basis for their prototype electric vehicle powertrain called the Synergy E Drive. The converted all-electric MINI, they claim, retains the "general appearance, boot, rear seats and full safety spec" (PDF). It was launched in London earlier this year.
The Synergy Innovations Electric MINI is meant to "demonstrate that electric drive vehicles can be high performance and fun to drive," the company claims. To that end, the car has a top speed of 95 mph and a range of between 70 and 90 miles from its 78 lithium polymer cells putting out 288V and three-phase AC induction motor. Thanks to Dick P. for the tip!

Gallery: Synergy Innovations Electric MINI


[Source: Synergy Innovations]

Synergy Innovations bringing electric MINI to Auto X Prize originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>synergy electric minisynergy innovationssynergy innovations electric minisynergy miniSynergyElectricMiniSynergyInnovationsSynergyInnovationsElectricMiniSynergyMiniWed, 15 Jul 2009 14:11:00 EST<![CDATA[MINI explains the drop in estimated range for MINI E]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/mini-explains-the-drop-in-estimated-range-for-mini-e/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/mini-explains-the-drop-in-estimated-range-for-mini-e/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/mini-explains-the-drop-in-estimated-range-for-mini-e/#commentsFiled under: ,


MINI E - click above for high-res image gallery

Those paying close attention might have noticed that as MINI USA has been delivering battery-powered MINI Es in recent weeks, the range estimate is being quoted as 100 miles. Last November, when we first saw and drove the MINI E, the range was estimated at 156 miles. When we actually drove the car in LA, the rate of decline of the estimated range was in fact closer to the new estimate than the original. In 6.5 miles we went from 72 to 49 percent charge.

We contacted MINI USA spokeswoman Nathalie Bauthers to learn more about the discrepancy. It turns out that the original 156-mile estimate was based on a California Air Resources Board protocol for testing zero emissions vehicles and was in fact a straight highway test. At the time that was the only number available as the EPA calculations were not yet completed. The EPA takes the raw numbers from ZEV range tests (just as they do with raw fuel consumption numbers) and puts them into a formula to make some adjustments. Those adjusted numbers are what is reported on the range/mileage sticker.

The MINI E is certainly not the first EV to fall short of range estimates and probably won't be the last. Going forward, hopefully, the EPA will be keeping an eye on real world results of EVs and making adjustments to the range formula just as they have with the mileage formula to give customers more realistic results. If not, early adopters of EVs are going to find themselves sadly disappointed with the vehicles.

Gallery: Quick Drive: MINI E


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: BMW]

MINI explains the drop in estimated range for MINI E originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleelectric vehicle rangeelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehicleRangeElectricVehiclesev rangeEvRangemini emini evMiniEMiniEvrangerange estimatesRangeEstimatesMon, 13 Jul 2009 19:04:00 EST