How do you get more mini than a MINI? Try the MINI Scooter E, a new concept to be shown at the Paris Motor Show
which takes the design language of MINI's current line-up and adds a
healthy dose of retro styling to create an all-electric two wheeler – a
first for the brand. The Scooter E uses an in-hub motor at the rear
wheel powered by a lithium-ion battery which is recharged via a
conventional socket using an on-board cable. Conventional keys are
discarded in favor of a smartphone, which also becomes the display panel
when slotted into the integrated dock.
The use of a smartphone also extends to the navigation and infotainment
system, with a Bluetooth link to a MINI helmet providing access to your
tunes – and phone calls – while on the move. A wraparound speedometer
surrounds the smartphone dock along with a charge indicator.
Other notable design elements include 11-inch rims, lashings of
chrome trim, two upright tail lights flanking the MINI logo and a
distinctive large headlight derived from the MINI Countryman.
Also taken from the MINI Countryman is the mounting rail which runs
from inside the windshield down to the foot rest. This rail accommodates
various clip-on holders for helmets, sunglasses, umbrellas and the
like. There's also two compartments on the inside of the windshield for
carrying personal items and at the rear, a storage space is provided for
the five meter long charging cable (complete with spring-loaded
mechanism for simple retraction).
Other notable design elements include 11-inch rims, lashings of
chrome trim, two upright tail lights flanking the MINI logo and a
distinctive large headlight derived from the MINI Countryman.
Also taken from the MINI Countryman is the mounting rail which runs
from inside the windshield down to the foot rest. This rail accommodates
various clip-on holders for helmets, sunglasses, umbrellas and the
like. There's also two compartments on the inside of the windshield for
carrying personal items and at the rear, a storage space is provided for
the five meter long charging cable (complete with spring-loaded
mechanism for simple retraction).
A sign of the times
MINI's interest in the two wheeled space seems to make sense given
the ongoing push towards greener, leaner ways to get from A to B and the
need for smaller vehicle footprints in urban areas. Daimler clearly
agrees, having also announced that it will show a two wheeled smart escooter concept concept in Paris. We wonder what the big motorcycle manufacturers make of this new direction.
Source: gizmag.com @ By Noel McKeegan
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