MINI is presenting an all-electric version of the classic Mini at the New York International Auto Show this week.

The classic Mini Electric combines the historic look of the iconic small car with advanced electric drive technology; with this unique vehicle, MINI says it is sending a clear signal demonstrating its commitment to retaining the brand’s unmistakable character while embracing innovative zero local emission technology.

The classic Mini Electric presented in New York will remain unique. A late and carefully restored example of the classic Mini Cooper serves as the basis for this special vehicle. The exterior red paint is complemented by a contrast white roof and characteristic hood strip, with the yellow MINI Electric logo in the brand emblem and on the wheel hubs.

The electric classic remains true to the brand, both in terms of its visual appearance and driving characteristics. The spontaneous power of its electric motor provides a new dimension to the unmistakable go-kart feeling that helped propel the British small car in its original form to worldwide popularity.

MINI announced its MINI Electric Concept at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, paving the way for the brand’s first all-electric vehicle which will be unveiled in 2019—just in time for the 60^th anniversary of the classic Mini. The fully electric production vehicle is currently in development, based on the MINI 3-Door Hatch, and will be produced for the first time at MINI Plant Oxford next year.

In 2008, the brand presented the MINI E, based on the predecessor model of the current MINI 3 Door. About 600 examples were produced and used in a field trial under everyday conditions. This trail played a central role in paving the way for the development of the BMW i3.

The currently available MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid model combines an internal combustion engine with an electric drive to deliver a system output of 165 kW / 224 hp.