BimmerCast #9 – The MINI E
No you’re not seeing things… that’s the word BimmerCast up there. And no we’re not merging MotoringFile with BimmerFile. However what we are doing is cross-posting our latest BimmerCast since is almost entirely related to the MINI. Specifically we talk about the MINI E and MINI’s struggles with rolling out the cars and the infrastructure. We also talk about MINI Diesels and the general difficulties of both BMW and MINI’s diesel program (or lack there of) in the US market. Enjoy!
[audio:http://www.bimmerfile.com/podcast/bimmerfile_9.mp3]Download (24 MB MP3)
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<p>Its nice to hear some first hand accounts of the MINI E. As much as I can never see myself driving one, I think MINI is making a good image with the E. As far as diesel goes, and the whole economy of scale idea, how about only making the S and D engines? Say, 60% of the MINIs had a diesel then MINI could turn a profit and it would cost less to make them. Just an idea.</p>
<p>BMW needs to take a LONG look at the Chevy Volt. Burn gasoline to make electricy to drive the car. BMW has the advantage on Hydrogen, So a small hydrogen motor to generate electricity.</p>
<p>The northamerican big 3 automakers did not have a problem with E85 roll out and building infrasturcture. They made the cars flexible (granted you had to empty the tank, couldn’t swap mid tank)</p>
<p>This should have been on WHITE ROOF RADIO!</p>
<p>Range anxiety needs some examination. Poll driving habits (percentage of 50 mile trips, 25 mile trips, etc) would be one way to demonstrate that many of us could easily get by with an electric as our second car. Obviously not this iteration of the MINI E, but we’re not far off.</p>