New tires and wiper blades at 13k service

Just had the 13k service at 13,200. The two front tires were replaced along with the wiper blades. The tires were below the 2.5mm minimum on the left and right sides of the tire. The tires looked great to me but thanks to MINI for keeping me safe and sound. Was given a 335i loaner. Brand new car. A rocket ship but only got 17.5 mpg. I did have a lot of stop and go traffic which doesn't help a gas powered car but increases the range of an electric car due to the regen braking. I spent $26.00 over the two days driving to work and back. In the MINI E my cost would have been $4.50. :)
I find myself really missing the regen braking when I'm without the E.

13,000 miles and driving in the rain

Just crossed the 13,000 mile mark today on the way to work on this rainy Thursday. The Southern California area has been getting drenched of late and the MINI E hasn't had any problems driving or charging in the rain. The only thing I've noticed is that with the front wheel drive you have to take it easy when going around a corner and not punch it or you spin the tires a little bit. All that torque gets things spinning pretty quickly, if you're heavy on the pedal. While at work, I've been plugging in via the 110 cable and even in downpours that last for hours, the orange light keeps blinking and the car charges away. While driving on the wet highways at various speeds, the car feels stable and safe. Having a great time driving emission free. :)

MINI to extend leases until ActiveE arrives

Good News for those not quite ready to give up their MINI E after a year. The added bonus of being offered the ActiveE is icing on the cake. Thank You MINI and BMW USA!

MINI to extend leases

P.S. While no pricing was announced, I have no doubt that the price will be lowered from the current $850.00 plus tax for the extension.