OWNERS of the original Mini are being given the chance to go electric with a conversion devised by engineers at the MINI factory in Oxford.

The electric conversion of classic Minis combines traditional values with future-oriented technology and was born before the brand had the MINI Electric on sale when a one-off, classic Mini Electric was built in 2018 and presented at the New York Auto Show.

The reactions were so positive that a team from MINI Plant Oxford set to work and developed the plan to make a corresponding offer available to customers who own a classic Mini.

With the MINI Recharge conversion the original petrol engine of the classic Mini is replaced by a modern electric drive.

And if owners wish to switch back the original engine of each vehicle is marked and stored so it can be reused.

Bernd Korber, head of the MINI Brand said: "What the project team are developing preserves the character of the classic Mini and enables its fans to enjoy all-electric performance. With MINI Recharged, we are connecting the past with the future of the brand."

The electric drive generates a continuous output of up to 90 kW and accelerates the electrified classic Mini from zero to 60mph in approximately nine seconds and with a full charge range of some 100 miles.

Each converted Mini is fitted with a central instrument cluster, which displays the drive temperature, the selected gear, range and speed.

The cost of the works conversion has not been revealed but similar conversions by specialist garages are in the region of £25,000.