They picked me!
MINI is field testing their new all-electric vehicle, the MINI E. They accepted applications in late 2008 looking for test subjects. On a lark, I applied. On March 16, 2009, I was notified that I was chosen as one of the 500 US drivers who will have one year to play with... er... test the MINI E. This is a record of my experiences.
-
Test Drive Day
Posted on May 20th, 2009 2 commentsThe MINI E demo cars have been making the rounds to dealers on both coasts. On May 19, I got my chance to drive one…
Stu will be back with his test drive review shortly.
Right now, we interrupt this post for an important news bulletin…MINI E Charging Cables Are A No Show
Plugged-In Newletter – May 20, 2009- MINI announced today that because of the delay in UL approval of the MINI E charging cables, only 150 cables will be ready by the time the cars have to be delivered. The other MINI E Pioneers will have to rely on a 110V charging cable for approximately one month. The good news is that MINI will wave the first month’s lease payment and consider allowing Pioneers to extend their leases so they get 12 full months of fast charging MINI E enjoyment. Despite the cable delay, drivers in California will start taking possession of their cars next week. New York and New Jersey drivers will have to wait until approximately the second week in June.
MINI E Alternate Charging Method
I’ve seen other posts such as this one by Peter showing his new charger with a cable. These guys are going to be doubly happy upon hearing the above news. Luckily, I have a 26 mile round-trip commute. This means that I should be able to charge up overnight without problems. After my test drive, I’ll take this car any way I can get it. Of course, if this delay continues I may have to find a clock-tower, cable, trolley pole, and pray for a lightening strike to quickly charge up my MINI E.
We now return you to your regularly scheduled post…
2 responses to “Test Drive Day”
-
The good thing is in order to support the alternative charging method, Mini will supply one brand new UL approved Flux Capacitor to each pioneer. And when that baby hits 88 MPH, you’re gonna see some serious stuff.
-
Oh, my very own Flux Capacitor? Going to have take a short trip and pick up a Mr Fusion, add a little garbage, and who needs a cable?
-
Raj May 21st, 2009 at 07:34