BMW is working on an all electric MINI model according to Peter Schwarzenbauer, BMW board member in charge of the MINI brand. We’ve heard rumors for over a year now that MINI is leveraging technology developed for BMWi and more specifically the i3 to develop what could be the brand’s 2nd electric offering after the pioneering MINI E. As opposed to the MINI E however any new electric MINI would be offered to the entire market rather than a limit test-based release.

>Much still depends on progress in battery technology – Peter Schwarzenbauer, BMW board member

Mr. Schwarzenbauer warned however that the car is still only in the planning stages and production isn’t guaranteed. “Much depends on progress in battery technology, he said. But he also added “Mini is the urban brand and long term, we will see a lot of electric mobility in the urban environment. Mini definitely needs one.”

When we’ll see it and what shape will it take is still not known. On one hand a larger MINI would allow for greater flexibility in battery size and potentially greater range. However using a smaller MINI would better align with urban needs.

We’ll have more when we get it.