Classic e-powered Mini zaps you with a $150,000 price tag

Britain’s David Brown Automotive has a reputation for taking classic Minis to the max. Now the restomod specialist has turned out its first e-powered car, and it’s the firm’s most expensive model to date.

Previous examples of its Mini Remastered program have sold for more than $100,000 but the new Mini eMastered will set you back at least $150,000.

Like every David Brown car the eMastered can be tailored to its owner’s tastes with countless luxury trappings incorporated into the tiny cabin. Leather seats feature embossed DB logos, there’s knurled switchgear, alloy pedals, a new instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and a central infotainment system. While retaining its iconic exterior design, the eMastered gets subtly flared wheelarches filled by color-matched Minilite-style alloy wheels. LED headlamps replace the dim beams of the original.

Rather than go for neck-braking pace, Brown has opted for an appropriate level of performance by fitting a compact 18.8 kWh battery pack under the Mini’s snout. It powers the front wheels via a 72 kW (97 hp) motor which is enough to move the Mini from 0-62 mph in 8.5 seconds and on to a 92 mph top speed. Range is a claimed 110 miles and charging takes three hours.

Crucially the Mini’s, er, minimal mass has been maintained at just 1410 pounds, meaning it should be just as nimble as you’d expect as it zips around town.

“There is an inherent challenge in electrifying such an iconic model, to retain the high levels of reliability, performance, and quality that our customers expect. Mini eMastered is a shape that captures hearts and minds, and it is the embodiment of our passion, vision, and commitment to sustainable luxury today and into the future,” says Michelle Gay, Sales & Marketing Director.