Posted on Wednesday 11 July 2007
Nevada’s Hybrid Technologies has started production of its electric-powered BMW Mini Cooper all-lithium model. In development for the past two years, the new electric Mini uses Hybrid Tech’s own proprietary advanced lithium management and battery-balancing system, which promises a cycle life in excess of 1,500 recharges.
The powertrain consists of a brushless AC motor with peak power of 105hp (78kW), and sees the 1,315kg electric Mini complete the 0-60mph dash in just six seconds. Top speed is only around 80mph but driving at a slower speed preserves battery-life and means owners will be able to travel up to 120 miles on a single charge.
Hybrid Tech takes delivery of the Mini Cooper rolling chassis from the Oxford plant in the UK, and then completes the conversion to all-lithium in North Carolina at its Mooresville plant. The maintenance free lithium ion packs weigh a significant 250kg and takes around 8-10 hours to completely charge when plugged into an ordinary household power outlet.
This would imply that there is some kind of problem/limitation with the current hybrid technology. Note to hybrid manufacturers…don’t rush technologies to the market to make a buck!