BMW doesn’t typically trumpet its ownership of Mini, but its announcement of the Concept ActiveE was rife with references to the Bavarian brand’s British beneficiary. That’s because BMW is considering the recently launched Mini E as a precursor to the Concept ActiveE, which will debut in January at the 2010 Detroit auto show.
Based on the 1-series coupe, the Concept ActiveE will see limited production and distribution of the sort that put the Mini E into the hands of consumers for a brief lease. BMW says, however, that it intends the ActiveE project to exceed the 500 units the Mini E dispersed. The next step, according to the company, is an electric production vehicle that will enter the market in the first half of the next decade under a yet-to-be-announced sub-brand. Currently, BMW is referring to the project as the Megacity Vehicle.
Like the Mini E, the ActiveE will place an electric drivetrain into a current body shell with no major external modifications. The Concept ActiveE of course boasts bespoke 18-inch wheels, a rear fascia devoid of any exhaust outlet, and environmentally friendly blue accent trim inspired by electronic circuitry on the doors and side panels. What would normally be the fuel filler cap is now a translucent blue panel covering the charging port. Matching blue and white trim is found inside.
Thanks to: Car and Driver
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