Citroen Survolt Artcar

Citroen and French artist, Francoise Nielly, have teamed up to create this masterpiece. The painting is based on the all-new, all-electric Citroen Survolt concept, first unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year.

The car is quite stunning simply left standing on its own, but with the colourful splashing of pink, green and yellow over the bonnet and other prominent contours, the car presents a fresh vibrant look and a definite step away from the usual ‘boring’ electric cars we’ve become used to.

The Citroen Survolt measures 3.85 meters long, wide and 1.2 1.87.mm high and weighs 1150 kilograms. Comes with a tubular chassis, a flat bottom with a hood and a full carbon body. In terms of features Survolt exclusively powered by electricity and 0-60 mph in just a shade under five seconds to produce a top speed of 162 mph.

The Survolt art car is displayed at C_42, the automotive producer’s “creme de la creme” showroom, which is located on the Champs-Elysees in Paris.




Press Release

Citroen has launched a new season at the Company’s international showcase, C_42, featuring a display of exciting models including a new ‘Art Car’ version of Survolt by Francoise Nielly, and Flavio Melchiorre’s personalised Citroen DS3 – winner of the Citroen Créative Awards competition.

The 14th season at the distinctive landmark building on the world famous Champs-Elysées also celebrates this year’s Paris Motor Show, bringing some of Citroen’s newest models such as the New C4, C-ZERO, DS3 Racing and DS4, to the public’s attention in the centre of Paris.

A specially created LED display on the C_42’s façade welcomes visitors with a multi-screen, digital creation symbolising Citroen’s ‘Créative Technologie’. Inside, the building’s magnificent revolving rotunda presents Citroen’s exciting model and concept ranges across several floors.

In the ground floor atrium, the exhibition opens with DS4, the second model in Citroen’s distinctive DS line. Guests can then experience the latest version of the C5 Tourer, presented in matt-black paintwork; the New C4, featuring Citroen’s innovative new e-HDi micro-hybrid technology; the stylish, hot-blooded special-edition DS3 Racing, displayed in a carbon setting; and the zero noise, zero fuel consumption and zero emission C-ZERO full-electric city car.

Fresh from its exhilarating UK duel against an electric superbike – the first head-to-head of its kind – the stunning all-electric Survolt racecar concept has been recharged with a bold, vivid and brightly contrasting new fluorescent paint scheme by Francoise Nielly. A source of inspiration for the original styling of Survolt, renowned contemporary artist Francoise Nielly worked closely with Citroen’s design team to create the exciting new interpretation of Citroen’s 100% electric racer – the Survolt ‘Art Car’.

On the top floor of C_42 is a display of Flavio Melchiorre’s personalised Citroen DS3 – the creation that won the Italian artist first prize in the Citroen Créative Awards, an international design competition launched in May 2010. The first Citroen Créative Awards received over 700 projects from around the world and the prize-winners were announced at a special evening held at C_42 on 5thOctober. Flavio Melchiorre’s DS3 creation will be launched in 2011 together with other new DS3 personalisation options.

2010 Paris Auto Show: Renault Twizy【Video】

Renault has releases the Twizy mini city car, at the 2010 Paris motor show.

The Renault Twizy Z.E. Concept is an all-electric compact vehicle which features a width of just 1.1 meters, faired wheels and two seats located one behind the other. It previews the brand's future electric models that will be intrododuced from 2011.

There will apparently be two different versions of the Twizy available, one sporting nine horsepower that can hit a top speed of 28 miles per hour and one with 20 horses that can hit 47 mph. A three-and-a-half-hour charge will result in 60 miles of range from the onboard lithium ion battery pack.

The vehicle is powered by a 15-kW electric motor and has a top speed of 47 mph and a range of 60 miles between charges. It features an integrated charger that enables the battery pack to be charged from roadside outlets. On household current, the Twizy can be fully recharged in 3.5 hours.

Renault claims that the EV is good for 60 miles making it perfect for those who have to commute to the city – just make certain that you do not live more than 60 miles return journey. The cost of the Twizy is expected to be around £6000.

Source: Renault






Press Release

TWIZY: A NIMBLE, PRACTICAL ELECTRIC VEHICLE FOR A FRESH APPROACH TO CITY MOTORING

Renault has chosen the 2010 Paris Motor Show to unveil the definitive version of Renault Twizy, a model that ingeniously illustrates Renault's new 'Drive the Change' brand signature. Twizy stands out as a particularly innovative answer to urban motoring:

• Thanks to its innovative concept, assertive character and ultra-compact footprint, Twizy is sure to appeal to active city dwellers looking for a stylish yet particularly practical vehicle.

• It is nimbler than a conventional car, while its acceleration in urban and suburban traffic is comparable to that of a scooter. Twizy offers the driver and passenger - seated one behind the other - protective bodywork, plus the reassuring road holding and braking ability of a four-wheeled vehicle.

• Twizy is an all-electric vehicle, so it doesn't produce any emissions during its use on the road. It is powered by a 15kW (20hp) motor developing 57Nm of torque and delivers all the advantages associated with electric mobility, including a silent ride, smooth acceleration and the immediate availability of maximum torque.

The liveries of the examples displayed on Renault's stand at the Paris Motor Show feature graphic designs conceived by Renault Design to serve as examples of the model's scope for customisation that is sure to appeal to Twizy owners.

Along with Renault Fluence Z.E. and Renault Kangoo Van Z.E., Twizy will be the third model in the Renault Z.E. electric vehicle family to be introduced. It is scheduled for release in the UK in early 2012.

It is already possible to place pre-orders for Renault Twizy at www.renault-ze.com

Twizy will be manufactured in Valladolid, Spain.

An innovative response to the challenge of urban mobility

A unique concept

The ultra-compact footprint of Twizy (length: 2.32 metres / width: 1.19 metres / height: 1.46 metres) is ideally suited to city motoring. Twizy will clearly appeal to busy, car-owning city dwellers looking for a second vehicle, as well as to younger drivers interested in a safe way to gain experience in traffic thanks to the availability of a version that will not require a driver's licence (depending on country).

Although its compact dimensions are likely to prompt comparisons with the world of scooters, Twizy delivers all the fundamentals associated with any car, namely four wheels, a steering wheel and pedals, plus an enveloping body for two occupants sitting in tandem, one behind the other.

A unique design

Twizy combines real character with a resolutely modern design that boasts sweeping lines, open bodywork, original gull wing doors and a full windscreen which extends over the top of the car to form a large glazed area, not to mention the model's original lighting signature.

Twizy buyers are likely to be sensitive to new design trends and will be able to customise their vehicle thanks to a wide choice of graphics available from launch.

TWIZY CUSTOMISED BY RENAULT DESIGN AT THE PARIS SHOW

The Paris Motor Show will see Renault display three Renault Twizys sporting customised liveries conceived by Renault Design.

The graphics of Twizy Dot Dot's design place the emphasis on elegance, Twizy Circuit takes its cues from the computer-generated imagery associated with science fiction films, and Renault Twizy Totem combines high-energy colours with tribal forms.

Nine other examples will be visible in virtual form, and visitors to Renault's stand at the Paris Motor Show (or to www.renault-ze.com) will be invited to vote for the customised Twizy they prefer from the 12 creations proposed by Renault Design.

The design which receives the highest number of votes will serve as inspiration for a limited edition version that will go on sale in 2011.

As nimble and practical as a scooter, with far superior occupant protection

Twizy's nimble handling makes it ideal for motoring in and about town. Thanks to its extremely compact footprint and a turning circle of just 3.4 metres, Twizy has no trouble finding parking space in built-up areas where micro city cars give up and look elsewhere.

Twizy's motor delivers maximum torque (57Nm; four times that of a three-wheeled 125cc scooter) the instant it is switched on. Renault Twizy consequently accelerates crisply from standstill and performs briskly in traffic. A top speed of 47mph also ensures that Twizy is at home in suburban traffic and on busy ring roads, etc. In some countries, a version limited to 28 mph will be available.

A particularly practical solution:

• Twizy's enveloping body and side deflectors combine the enjoyment of open-air motoring with protection from the elements. Additional lower door panels are available to provide even more effective shielding against wind and rain.

• The amount of in-car stowage space is ideally suited to the needs of owners travelling to and from work, or to and from the shops. A 31-litre lockable cubby - ideal for a briefcase or limited shopping - is readily accessible underneath the rear seat. The capacity of this locker can easily be increased to 55 litres. There are also three litres of stowage space either side of the steering wheel.

Easy to drive:

• Driving Twizy is a different, yet enjoyable and intuitive experience. Acceleration is smooth, torque is instantly available and the motor is particularly quiet.

• Dashboard information includes an econometer and a range gauge. Both are very clear and ensure that drivers feel immediately at home behind the wheel.

Twizy provides a standard of safety performance superior to that of a scooter.

Twizy's bodywork, for example, is far more visible in traffic to other road users. In the case of a head-on collision, both occupants are protected by a deformable structure, while the outboard position of the four wheels and the lateral beams located either side of the chassis provide protection should the vehicle be involved in a side-on impact. The safety retention systems include a driver's airbag, a four-point harness at the front and a three-point safety belt at the rear. Also, since Twizy's occupants are protected and held in place, they are under no legal requirement to wear any sort of protective gear (crash helmet, protective clothing, etc.). Thanks to its four-wheeled chassis and extremely low centre of gravity, Twizy delivers a reassuringly stable ride, while disc brakes all-round ensure precise, efficient stopping power.

An all-electric vehicle for zero-emission motoring (during road use)

Renault Twizy's carefully honed weight - 450kg, including batteries (100kg) - is directly beneficial to its range which stands at 60 miles (combined cycle). Its battery is also particularly easy to charge thanks to an extendable spiral cable stored beneath a flap at the front of the vehicle. Thanks to an integrated charger, this cable is also compatible with roadside battery charging facilities. An adapter permits this cable to be plugged into any 220V 10A household electrical supply.

The battery fully charges in three-and-a-half hours.

Twizy will go on sale in Europe at the end of 2011 with a price tag similar to that of a three-wheeled scooter. For the UK, launch is planned for the first quarter of 2012. Like the other models that make up the Renault Z.E. range, customers will be able to take out a monthly subscription to cover battery rental and associated services.

RENAULT TWIZY - Technical Specification

DIMENSIONS
Standard rims (inches)		13
Length (mm)		2,320
Width (mm)		1,191
Height (mm)		1,461
Wheelbase (mm)		1,684
Front/rear track (mm)		1,050/1,036
Front/rear overhang (mm)		292/345
Kerb weight (kg)		450 (with 100kg battery)
Standard tyres (front/rear)		125x80 R13 / 145x80 R13
MOTOR
Type		Electric
Transmission		Direct drive with reducer and forward/reverse inverter
Maximum continuous power (EEC) (45kph version/75kph version)		4kW (5hp)/8kW (10hp)
Maximum peak power (EEC)(45kph version/75kph version)		7kW (9hp)/15kW (20hp)
Maximum torque EEC (Nm)		57
BATTERY
Type		Lithium-ion
NEDC combined cycle range		60 miles
PERFORMANCE
Top speed	47 mph

Skoda Octavia Green E Line Concept

This year’s edition of the Paris show will see the VW Group’s successful Skoda brand unveiling its first-ever electric-powered vehicle called the Octavia Green E Line. Skoda says it is planning to create a special test fleet of Octavias Green E Line in 2011 with the goal of obtaining additional information relevant to the further development of the electric drive. The concept model is based on the series production Octavia Combi [estate] and is powered by an electric motor delivering a constant power of 60 kW / 80-hp and a maximum output of 85 kW / 114-hp.

The electricity for the Octavia Green E Line is supplied by a modern lithium-ion battery. With a range-per-charge of 140 kilometers (87 miles), the Skoda Octavia Green E Line comfortably meets the requirements of most everyday commuters in Europe. Located under the middle and rear parts of the floor and extending partly into the luggage compartment, the 26.5 kWh battery is made up of 180 lithium-ion cells (diameter 150 mm, length 650 mm) and weighs about 315 kilograms. However, the battery has almost no impact on the volume of the passenger and luggage compartments. The Octavia Green E Line is fitted with five comfortable seats, and its passenger compartment is identical with that of the Octavia Combi with a combustion engine.

The car is finished in a Pearl White exterior color and features chrome-trim on both the front and rear of the vehicle as well as on the wheels creating a contrast with the glossy black roof with integrated energy-generating photovoltaic panels.

Motivation is provided a 26.5 kWh lithium-ion battery which sends power to an electric motor that produces 85 kW (114 hp / 116 PS) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. This allows the wagon to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 12 seconds, hit a top speed of 135 km/h (84 mph) and travel up to 140 km on a single charge.

Source: Skoda




Press Release

OCTAVIA GREEN E LINE CONCEPT: ŠKODA'S FIRST-EVER ELECTRIC VEHICLE

• Range: up to 140 km per charge thanks to modern ion-lithium battery

• Engine: maximum power 85 kW

• Test fleet to start in 2011

Mladá Boleslav, 29 September, 2010 - The 2010 Paris Motorshow will see the Octavia Green E Line concept. Škoda's first-ever electric-powered vehicle will demonstrate the company's innovative potential and technological competence in this growing area. The first fleet of test vehicles is planned for 2011.

Mobility for people and clean cars for the environment - these are Škoda's commitments. Mobility without emissions is the future. "The Octavia Green E Line embodies the values of the brand absolutely perfectly - the vehicle combines the desire for individual mobility with our environmental goals", said Škoda Auto BOD Chairman Prof. Dr. Winfried Vahland.

The Green E Line concept is based on the Škoda Octavia Combi. With its modular chassis design, this series-production car is the ideal option in terms of arranging the batteries, electronic control units and the electric engine with its constant power of 60 kW and max. power of 85 kW. Available right after the start (as is typical of this type of drive), the maximum torque of 270 Nm gives the car enough power for sharp acceleration and a good amount of agility and responsiveness, which the driver will appreciate mainly in busy city traffic. The Octavia Green E Line accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just twelve seconds, and the car's maximum speed is limited to 135 km/h.

The electricity for the Octavia Green E Line is supplied by a modern lithium-ion battery. With a range-per-charge of 140 kilometres, the Škoda Octavia Green E Line comfortably meets the requirements of most everyday commuters in Europe. Located under the middle and rear parts of the floor and extending partly into the luggage compartment, the 26.5 kWh battery is made up of 180 lithium-ion cells (diameter 150 mm, length 650 mm) and weighs about 315 kilograms. However, the battery has almost no impact on the volume of the passenger and luggage compartments. The Octavia Green E Line is fitted with five comfortable seats, and its passenger compartment is identical with that of the Octavia Combi with a combustion engine.

With smart dashboard indicators, the driver of the Octavia Green E Line always stays in control. The computer screen provides continuous information including instant output, power consumption, battery charge and the remaining range. The navigation display describes the energy flow, i.e., informs the driver that the electric engine is being supplied with electricity or, on the contrary, that it is generating electricity as the car decelerates or goes downhill.

The look of the Škoda Octavia Green E Line conveys the environmental-friendliness of its electric drive.Pearl-white exterior colour and elegant chrome-trim on both the front and rear of the vehicle as well as on the wheels create an impressive contrast with the glossy black roof with integrated energy-generating photovoltaic panels.

Škoda Auto is planning to create a test fleet of Octavias Green E Line in 2011 with the objective of obtaining additional information relevant to the further development of the electric drive.

Sketch: 2013 Infiniti EV

Infiniti just released a few details about its first luxury electric vehicle, including a sketch. Based on the the brand’s “Inspired Performance” motto, the Infiniti EV will be a stylish, compact, high performance, five-seat luxury car with an electric powertrain. The market lauch is confirmed for 2013.

“This future EV will play a major part of Infiniti’s ‘eco performance’ strategy that will see a greater focus on hybrid and EV technology,” Infiniti Vice President Ben Poore said in a statement. “We are committed to applying the world’s best technologies to reduce emissions without sacrificing driving excitement or engagement.”

Infiniti will unveil the 2012 M35 hybrid sedan in November at the Los Angeles auto show. The M hybrid is based on the M sedan and will deliver V8 performance with 4-cylinder fuel economy from an estimated 302-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine and a 50 kilowatt electric motor with estimated horsepower of 67.

Source: Infiniti


Press Release

Infiniti Releases Sketch of Future Luxury Electric Vehicle

– Infiniti’s “Eco Performance” Strategy Also Includes Upcoming Infiniti M Hybrid Sedan –

Mississauga, ON (Sept. 24, 2010) – Infiniti today released a sketch of its first luxury electric vehicle, which is set to launch in Canada and other global markets in 2013. Befitting the brand’s promise of “Inspired Performance,” the Infiniti EV will be a stylish, high performance five-seat luxury vehicle with zero emissions technology.

“This future EV will play a major part of Infiniti’s ‘eco performance’ strategy that will see a greater focus on hybrid and EV technology,” said Wendy Durward, Director, Infiniti Canada. “We are committed to applying the world’s best technologies to reduce emissions without sacrificing driving excitement or engagement – a pledge that will become more evident soon with the upcoming introduction of our new Infiniti M Hybrid.”

The 2012 Infiniti M35h, which features Infiniti’s Direct Response Hybrid technology, makes its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. The M Hybrid is based on the popular Infiniti M sedan and promises V8 performance with 4-cylinder fuel economy from a 302-horsepower (est.) 3.5-litre V6 supported by a 50 kW (67 horsepower est.) electric motor. Dubbed “the driver’s hybrid,” the M35h will be able to be driven on electric power alone at speeds up to 80 kilometers per hour. The compact Lithium-ion battery pack design also allows use of a spacious passenger cabin and ample trunk capacity.

“The new Infiniti M Hybrid changes the rules, achieving excellent fuel economy while delivering the exhilarating driving performance expected of a luxury sports sedan,” added Durward.

The Infiniti M35h will be available at Infiniti retailers in Canada in spring 2011.

Paris Preview: Mini Scooter E Concept

BMW has releases the MINI Scooter E Concepts that will officially debut at the Paris Auto Show next week. Created to bring together a youth-oriented lifestyle element and sustainable mobility, the scooters take significant design cues from the MINI lineup of cars while using a lithium-ion battery pack to deliver guilt-free mobility.

Mini's moped is, predictably, an uncannily retro two-wheeler. The step-through design, front fender, and curved body all bear a striking resemblance to vintage Lambretta scooters. Appropriate, we suppose, given the Lambretta -- like the Mini itself -- was once tied to the British Mod scene in the 1960s. Minor cues, including the chrome trim on the leg shield, the round projector headlamp, spoiler-like grab handle, and twin taillights do help tie the Scooter E to its four-wheeled Mini siblings.

Design-wise, the Scooter E Concept takes many cues from the MINI paradigm. The large wheels, 11-inch rims, give the scooter a bulky look, while the headlight unit is also sizable and round and the Scooter E features upright taillights similar to the MINI Countryman.

Apart from the compact battery, a charging system and connecting cable are integrated snugly in the rear of the MINI Scooter E Concept. The charging cable has a plug which fits into any conventional domestic socket. This has the major advantage that topping up the energy reserve does not depend on a special charging station being available. Stop-offs for shopping or visiting a café can be used for hassle-free battery recharging.

The three concepts, styled by a small team in Munich, Germany, under the guise of BMW Group design boss Adrian von Hooydonk, will be used to gauge public reaction before Mini decides whether or not to press ahead with a premium-priced electric scooter.

Source: BMW




Press Release

Urban driving fun with zero emissions: The MINI Scooter E Concept.

Spontaneous, flexible, CO2-free mobility in the characteristic style of the brand - World-first transfer of that familiar MINI feeling to the two-wheel segment brings alternative drive technology to the attention of lifestyle-led target groups - Innovative vehicle concept marks its world premiere at the 2010 Paris Motor Show.

Munich/Paris. Hardly a year has gone by since the launch of the MINI E, and MINI is at it again, opening up fascinating prospects for urban mobility that reduce CO2 emissions without any compromises on spontaneity and independence. The MINI Scooter E Concept transfers the brand's hallmark driving fun to the two-wheel segment for the first time. Equally unique features are the link between the scooter's alternative drive concept and its unmistakable design, intelligent functionality and detailed personalisation options in true MINI style. The MINI Scooter E Concept is powered by an electric motor integrated in the rear wheel. The motor's lithium-ion battery can be recharged at any conventional power socket using an on-board charging cable. The concept study, which is being launched as a world premiere at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, meets the mobility aspirations of a target group that sets store by premium quality and advanced technology as well as placing sustainability on a par with individual style and an emotional driving experience. The MINI Scooter E Concept also highlights new ways of attracting in particular a young audience to the MINI brand.

Once again, this study by the MINI design team has furnished evidence of a special strength exhibited by the brand: the ability to identify new challenges for mobility in major urban areas at an early stage and to meet those needs with innovative vehicle concepts. 51 years ago, the world's first concept for a small car focused consistently on efficient use of space and driving fun to create the platform for the classic Mini. The design principles applied to the brand's forebear all those years ago define the segment for small cars and compacts to this day. As the world's first premium small car, the MINI has been an unparalleled success following the relaunch of the brand in 2001. More than 1.7 million vehicles have been sold worldwide, providing impressive testimony to the potential even in this segment for generating a desire to embrace a successful combination of driving fun, quality, striking design and individual style.

The design of the MINI Scooter E Concept also incorporates current changes in urban mobility requirements. Its heritage of more than 50 years has seen the MINI brand following the principle of promoting individual mobility with optimum use of space implemented on the smallest possible footprint. This principle is now being applied to the brand's first two-wheel vehicle, offering seats for up to two people within remarkably compact dimensions. The study also embodies the first two-wheel concept to combine a sustainable drive technology with design features geared to lifestyle.

Typical MINI design - a world first on two wheels.

The MINI Scooter E Concept, making its world debut in two individual design versions, opens up a whole host of options for enjoying the driving fun associated with MINI while at the same time being immediately recognisable as a true ambassador of the brand. This synthesis has been achieved by the systematic transfer of fundamental MINI design principles to the new vehicle concept and through an authentic reinterpretation of unique details. The design language and wealth of individual details embodied in the two-wheel study are based on the current production models of the MINI brand.

Clearly defined proportions and smoothly contoured lines lend the MINI Scooter E Concept an aesthetic appearance that evinces significant parallels to the brand's cars. The relationship between the size of the wheels and the vehicle as a whole play a significant role here. The 11-inch rims of the MINI Scooter E Concept give the study a powerful and robust appearance, emulating the profile of MINI cars. The alignment of the contours enhances this impression from the side by clearly defining the front and rear of the vehicle before sweeping up towards each other at virtually identical angles. The windshield of the MINI Scooter E Concept is angled in an upright position similar to that of the front windshield in MINI cars. The curvature designed into the sides also displays parallels with the transitions of a windshield in the MINI as it merges into the A-pillars.

Round headlights with independent contour, windshield with an aperture in MINI radiator grille style.

The front view of the MINI Scooter E Concept is dominated by a remarkably large, round headlight unit. Similar to the headlights of the MINI Countryman, the headlight contour diverges slightly from the original circular shape, and both designs are influenced by the geometry of the surrounding surfaces. The independent contour of the headlight unit in the MINI Countryman matches the brawny, curved wheel arches and the robust radiator grille, while on the MINI Scooter E Concept it takes its cue from the low-slung windshield. The headlight unit tapers upwards and features a chrome surround, creating a strong profile in characteristic MINI style. The circular shape of the main headlight interior is highlighted by an illuminated coloured ring.

Projecting indicators, meanwhile, invoke the front view of the classic Mini. The glass covers for the flasher lamps are enclosed in chrome fames and curve slightly outwards to resemble the historic profile.

A stylised aperture in the windshield configured below the headlight contributes to the front profile so typical of the brand, its shape mimicking the contour of the hexagonal radiator grille in MINI cars. This design element also has a chrome frame, while the impression of familiarity is further enhanced by the MINI brand logo above it. The windshield itself is framed by a wraparound plastic surround. Each of the two study versions also has individually matched paintwork for the windshield, wheel covers and fairing enclosing the frame. A contrasting colour is applied to the surface of each of the windshields, and the range of hues in the paintwork reflects the light and shade effects on the curved engine bonnet of a MINI four-wheeler.

Inimitably MINI: chrome elements, round mirrors and two upright tail lights.

Other chrome elements are evident on the hand grip at the back of the seat and on the footrest. The hand grip is shaped like the rear spoiler of the MINI Cooper S, while a continuous band of chrome positioned directly below the seat recalls the side sill on MINI cars.

The rear-view mirrors on the MINI Scooter E Concept likewise display familiar characteristics in their shape and their size in proportion to the vehicle. This applies to the round contour of the mirror surfaces, the eye-catching volume of the hemispherical casing, as well as the different mirror cap designs that permit additional individualisation options.

Another characteristic design feature is reinterpreted at the rear of the MINI Scooter E Concept: the two tail light units are mounted on the outside of the rear wheel fairing in an upright position. A transparent glass cover recalls the MINI Countryman and provides a view of the three-dimensional structure of the tail lights, brake lights and indicators. Each of the tail light units on the MINI Scooter E Concept is mounted in a chrome frame and the MINI logo is positioned between the tail lights.

One concept, two characters.

The exceptional potential of the new mobility concept is underscored by the parallel presentation of two design concepts. These two versions highlight the key features of the study - driving fun, sustainability, sportiness and lifestyle orientation - with an individual focus. The concepts have different functionalities in terms of the number of seats: the MINI Scooter E Concept is presented in a version developed to support driving fun for two people and in an emphatically sporty, thoroughbred version with a seat designed for the rider alone.

The colour design of the two-seater version of the MINI Scooter E Concept is based on the appearance of the MINI E, which highlights its emission-free drive concept in a particularly striking way. The livery designed in matt anthracite creates an attractive contrast with the seat finished in yellow, with the iridescent colour of the windshield around the headlight unit and the yellow mirror caps providing further accentuating features. The surface of the seat is made of tough fabric material, with a yellow strip bordering the lower part of the seat.

In each of the two versions of the MINI Scooter E Concept, this strip sweeps downwards from the front of the seat into the frame fairing and continues along the edge of the footrest towards the front, where it also runs around the windshield. This creates a visual boundary between the body of the scooter and the rider/passenger area including the foot space and cockpit.

The design of the second version of the MINI Scooter E Concept is steeped in the brand's heritage and British origins. Primarily designed for solo riders, this version represents the sportier version of the new vehicle concept. Its British Racing Green finish harks back to classic racing cars, with the sparkle of the paintwork lending a particularly distinguished, high-quality aura to this new interpretation. The seat is upholstered in dark brown leather and the surface has an artifically created "used look". Attractive contrasts to the dark-green body colour are provided by silver mirror caps and paintwork around the headlight unit in the windshield that flips between green and silver.

Progressive, stylish, uncomplicated operation.

The MINI Scooter E Concept is a rallying call for spontaneous riding enjoyment. This is fostered by intuitive operation and agile ride characteristics. Thoroughbred mobility in hallmark MINI style entails vehicle handling that is completely intuitive and needs no further explanation. That applies to the immediate activity of riding as well as charging the lithium-ion battery. The operating concept is also directed towards enabling straightforward and effortless use of the other functions designed to enhance driving fun.

This challenge is met by an innovative way of integrating mobile devices. The cockpit of the MINI Scooter E Concept comprises a Centre Speedo in the circular shape familiar from MINI, with a smartphone integrated in the middle. The wraparound speedometer is in the form of a tube filled with fluid, the content expanding in line with the speed rather like a thermometer. In the lower area of the Centre Speedo, a battery charge level display indicates the range currently available. The design of all the control elements for lights, direction indicators and other driving functions corresponds to the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel of MINI cars.

Smartphones as key, display and central control element.

The inside of the round instrument comprises a snap-in adapter for a smartphone, which operates simultaneously as the vehicle key, display and central control element. As soon as the rider docks his mobile phone and switches it on, the vehicle is ready to go. This configuration in the MINI Scooter E Concept yields new initiatives for integrating infotainment, communication and navigation functions in a two-wheeler. While the scooter is in motion, the smartphone can be used as a navigation system, music player or telephone as required. A wireless Bluetooth interface can be connected to a helmet from the MINI Collection. This is fitted with a microphone and headphones so that riders are able to use the telephone function or access their personal music collection while on the road.

The innovative operating concept creates a network between the rider, the vehicle and the environment which paves the way for numerous new interactive functions. Building on the MINI Connected services already available in current MINI production cars, specific features can be implemented by adding further smartphone applications. For example, the navigation function can be supplemented by a special map view in Google Maps which indicates the current position of other scooters from the brand in the immediate vicinity. This provides a feature similar to social networks on the internet where riders who are friends can be identified and invited to come together on a whim by simply pressing a button. A greeting function has also been developed for the MINI Scooter E Concept to further strengthen the community appeal and highlight the friendly and open-minded personality of this vehicle. An automated full-beam headlight function that operates when two vehicles meet strengthens this sense of community.

MINI Centre Rail in an innovative design and with specific accessories.

Alongside the intuitive control and interactive functions, the advanced functionality of the MINI Scooter E Concept also contributes to its intuitive and compelling operation. Two compartments on the inside of the windshield are available for stowing personal items. The study also incorporates an innovative aluminium design of the MINI Centre Rail first presented in the MINI Countryman. The mounting rail configured inside the windshield extends downwards into the foot space, and the unique clip-on mechanism offers a range of options for transporting items that are required during the journey or at the rider's destination. These items are stored so that they easily come to hand.

Dedicated Centre Rail specifications are offered for each version of the concept. The universal mounting system means that they can be switched between vehicles at any time or complemented by other products from the MINI Accessories range for the MINI Countryman. The accessories for the Centre Rail include tailor-made holders from the MINI Collection for the helmet as well as for umbrellas, sunglasses and thermos flasks. An additional closed compartment and an expanded rain guard to protect the rider's legs can also be easily connected to the Centre Rail. A music player, calendar, stopwatch and tea cups specially designed for the MINI Scooter E Concept can also be attached to the Centre Rail.

All you need is a power socket: maximum independence guaranteed by an integrated charging cable.

When riding the MINI Scooter E Concept, brief stops can be used to top up the on-board energy storage system. Consistent charging significantly increases independence and flexibility when using the electrically powered two-wheeler. The electric drive unit, concealed beneath a painted cover inside the rear wheel, is powered by electricity supplied from a lithium-ion battery. Apart from the compact battery, a charging system and connecting cable are integrated snugly in the rear of the MINI Scooter E Concept. The charging cable has a plug which fits into any conventional domestic socket. This has the major advantage that topping up the energy reserve does not depend on a special charging station being available. Stop-offs for shopping or visiting a café can be used for hassle-free battery recharging.

Plugs and cables are accommodated underneath a cover similar to the round tank flap in a MINI car. After opening the illuminated flap, the plug and charging cable can be pulled out to a length of up to five metres and connected to the power system. After the battery has been charged up, a button-operated spring mechanism ensures that the cable is retracted and coiled in a space-saving compartment.

MINI Scooter E Concept: innovative, sustainable, lifestyle-oriented - in other words, a true MINI.

Urban driving fun enters a new dimension with the MINI Scooter E Concept. This innovative mobility concept embodies a combination of sustainability and lifestyle unprecedented in the two-wheel segment. Both facets are showcased particularly convincingly by the MINI brand. A period spanning more than 50 years has seen this brand representing leading-edge vehicle concepts that encompass environmental and economic aspects while satisfying the desire for spontaneous driving fun and individual style. In its time, the classic Mini became the icon of a new kind of mouldbreaking mobility in modern urban environments. The MINI Scooter E Concept similarly delivers alternative solutions for the shifting requirements in today's urban traffic landscape. Its design in typical MINI style incorporates a pioneering operating concept and comprehensive options for creating a personalised vehicle, taking account of the sophisticated requirements of young, environmentally aware target groups who are open to new trends.

The MINI Scooter E Concept represents the first mobility concept in this vehicle segment to bring sustainability and lifestyle into harmony. The MINI Scooter E Concept represents a means of conveyance that is as classless as the classic Mini in its time. Easy operation and agile handling offer ideal conditions for giving young drivers a fascinating entry into the world of the MINI brand. At the same time, the concept will appeal to style-conscious and environmentally aware car drivers who are interested in an attractive adjunct or a longer-term alternative to their accustomed form of personal mobility.

The drive concept incorporated in the study also underpins the consistent development efforts of the BMW Group in its quest to achieve CO2-free mobility. The electric drive plays a key role in this endeavour and allows the MINI Scooter E Concept to deliver the driving fun associated with the brand in a new and highly contemporary package. The instantaneous pick-up of electric drive systems, plus the vehicle's low weight and compact dimensions, ensure maximum agility in typical traffic conditions on urban roads. These features and the simple operation of the charging system make the MINI Scooter E Concept a pioneering symbol of independent, flexible and spontaneous mobility.