back	November 20, 2008 RSS

Premiere of the MINI E at the LA Auto Show

It’s amazing, the MINI E makes no noise! None. This is what we learned today at a press conference at the LA Auto Show where the highly anticipated model had its world debut. To watch someone turn the vehicle on in the middle of the convention center and then see it glide away silently was literally like watching a silent movie. Jarring and yet also kind of peaceful. I later got a chance to drive the car myself on the streets of LA and was again floored with how quiet it was. In fact, it was amazing to notice only once the car started moving that the engine was turned on and working. At this point I discovered the second big difference between the MINI E and a car with a fuel engine. When you take your foot off the MINI E's pedal it begins slowing down right away. You could almost get away without using the brake pedal. If electric cars are the future, I predict the brake pedal might become a thing of the past. During my interview this afternoon with Dr. Armbrecht, Senior Vice President of MINI Brand Management, I strongly suggested he gives me a MINI E but he demurred. Evidently you need a garage for the mandatory installation of a charging station. I guess I have to wait until there is a way to charge the car with a cell phone charger. But then... well, you know where to find me. Related links Become a test driver Interview with the creators of the MINI E