PML Build 640 Bhp Electric Mini!

British company PML, have created an electric BMW Mini with a total power output of 640 bhp.

PML debuted the car at the British Motor Show recently, with 160 bhp at each wheel, the total power output equals an incredible 640 bhp. This means a top speed of 150 mph and acceleration that would put a Porsche 997 Carrera to shame.

The Mini runs on a battery and bank of capacitors, but can also be powered by a small internal combustion if a longer journey is needed, creating an unbelievable 80 mpg.

Martin Boughtwood, PML’s MD, explains “Until now, most electric vehicles have been little more than souped-up milk floats, limited by range and speed, with compromised performance. For those with a green conscience who also value an enhanced motoring experience, there is still something missing.”

“Working in partnership with our customer, Synergy Innovations, we set out to demonstrate what our electric wheel technology is capable of. We simply took a standard BMW Mini One, discarded the engine, the disc brakes, the wheels, and the gearbox. These components were replaced by four of our electric wheels, a lithium polymer battery, a large ultra capacitor, a very small ICE with generator (so small it almost fits alongside the spare wheel), an energy management system and a sexy in-car display module.”

The wheel motors control everything, including ABS and traction control, it’s all cleverly built into the software.

The only parts that suffer mechanical wear are the wheel bearings, so power never deteriorates.

Smart stuff indeed. I bet it doesn’t sound as good as a V8 though…

[Source: World Car Fans]