25,000 miles is just around the corner!

Wow, how the miles have slipped by in the MINI E. On Monday, I'll slide past the 25k mark. I've yet to notice any decrease in range due to the batteries aging and even after all these miles, the feeling I get when I punch it brings a smile to my face every time.

When the MINI E program started there were quite a few negative comments directed at BMW. Folks were saying they were just putting out the MINI E to meet state and government emission standards to help offset the other vehicles in their line-up. For those folks following the automotive news of late, you've seen that BMW is committed to the Megacity (full EV) along with other vehicle types that reduce emissions. I was fortunate enough to see first hand what's around the corner and while I can't discuss in detail due to confidentiality agreements, folks are in for a pleasant surprise. BMW has conducted research on population patterns, where folks are most likely to live in the future, how far they'll be driving, etc and is preparing the company accordingly. One however shouldn't get the impression that the excitement of driving the ultimate driving machine is heading out the window. That's not the case at all. They are simply preparing for the future and will be providing choices that will meet the needs of a variety of drivers. Google BMW Megacity to read the full report.

It was pretty gutsy to put the MINI E out on the road with real world drivers. While other manufacturers have cars in the works or soon to be on the road, BMW was the only one to actually put a large number of vehicles in the hands of folks to drive under real world conditions. This could have been a disaster. Sure there have been some issues (as one would expect with a test vehicle) but they've been dealt with and things that have arose have helped BMW move forward in preparing their next vehicle, the ActiveE and then finally the Megacity which will be available as a 2013 vehicle.

It's wonderful to see so many car manufacturers jumping on board the EV train but for me, I'll be sticking with the BMW brand. I've been given a unique opportunity to drive the MINI E, transition to the Active E and then finally (if I've saved enough pennies..he, he) move into the Megacity. It's an exciting time in the automotive world and I'm thrilled to play a small part in the future.