Richard drives a MINI Electric Level 2 32.6kWh 2022 electric car.
This is Richard’s first electric car, he’s owned the MINI Electric from new and drives 10,000-15,000 miles annually. The current mileage of the car is between 0-500 miles and he achieves 120 miles range from a full charge.
Why did you choose the MINI Electric?
After having two ICE Minis, I was familiar with the car and liked the concept that the BEV version is virtually identical to look at; not at all a ‘look at me’ car, until you accelerate, that is! The performance from the electric motor with instant torque is a massive improvement on the petrol version that I previously had.
After comparing the car to similarly priced and sized competition, which were all slightly lower powered and didn’t handle as well (in my opinion), I knew that the MINI was the electric car for me.
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Positives – List 3 or more reasons why you love this electric car
- Instant torque and acceleration
- drives and handles just like any other MINI
- plenty of physical controls, rather than touchscreen interfaces for everything.
Negatives – List 3 or more things that you really don’t like about this electric car
- I wish the range was better, although you learn to work around it
- green mode takes all of the fun out of it and doesn’t seem to add much range (in my current experience)
- the option list is nowhere near as flexible as the equivalent petrol version.
Have you experienced any faults with the car? If so, what have they been?
No faults experienced
What are the standout technological features of your MINI Electric?
Compared to my 2018 petrol MINI, I find the remote monitoring of the charging status great. Much of the technology on the two cars are the same but the sat nav with automatic updates and app integration is particularly useful. Having a disability in my left side, I also find the iDrive (rotary controller) much easier to use than cars with just a touch screen.
Surprise us! Tell us something people wouldn’t readily know about this electric car
I’ve heard it’s as fast to 30 as a BMW M3!
What electric car(s) are you interested in next and why?
Something slightly bigger but staying with BMW/MINI as the control systems work for me. I’d love an i4 M50!
Electricity supplier & tariff – outline both positive & negative elements
I’m currently on a flat rate of 34p/kW with Shell Energy. I do not currently have any specific feedback related to charging the car at home.
What public charging networks would you recommend to others and why?
- Pod Point for value (price per kW)
- Osprey and InstaVolt for ease of use.
Insurer – outline both positive & negative elements
Direct Line – they offer an ‘EV Benefits’ package which includes discounted public charging and discount off a home charger. My premium increased slightly but I would get that’s because of the power increase in the car, from 136bhp to 180bhp.
Please itemise where you’re saving money owning & running a MINI Electric
Monthly payments have increased slightly, but there will be:
- No VED
- reduction of 75% in charging costs vs petrol
- servicing is included.
I estimate I will save at least £100 a month by going electric.
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