Do you like MINI? Do you like electric cars? If yes, then your luck is in, because MINI has announced it is looking for 20 British drivers who can take part in phase two of a trial that will test the electric MINI E on public roads. Unfortunately, you can only apply if you live in a 'triangular geographical area between Andover, Oxford and West London.'

The successful applicants will test the MINI E in every day life situations. The data and experiences will then be applied to a BMW Group zero emissions 'mega city' car in the future. Drivers will pay a monthly lease fee of £330, which includes VAT, insurance and maintenance. Happily, because the E is an electric car, the London congestion charge won't be applicable, and of course, there will be no petrol costs.

MINI is also keen to point out that, despite the E being electric, it still manages to keep the original MINI looks and has performance that is 'close' to that of the John Cooper Works model.

If you're interested then you can apply at www.electricMINI.co.uk.

Lee Pickering - 15 Apr 2010