THE classic Mini is being recreated as an electric vehicle with conversions being offered by Recharged Heritage to future-proof the iconic vehicle.

Costs will start from £42,500 for converting an existing Mini and £62,500 to include a donor classic Mini.

Built in the UK from its facilities in Burnley and Bristol the team at Recharged Heritage replace the original petrol engine with a modern electric drive train.

During the conversion, the interior is updated and the distinctive rear end gets Mini Recharged branding.

The car has been engineered so that it weighs no more than the original and the company says the body remains totally original and the car's petrol engine can be refitted if required.

Potential customers can either have their own classic Mini converted or purchase a model from Recharged Heritage and then have it electrified.

With two modes available from the 18-kWh lithium-ion battery with a 72kW electric motor revving up 14,000 rpm, customers can opt for Pure mode, which accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 11.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of 78 mph (equivalent to the Classic Mini 1275 GT) or Sport mode, which reaches 0 to 62 mph in 8.5 seconds and travels at a top speed of 92 mph.

With a 6.6 kW on-board charger, the battery can be charged in three hours on a 7kW wall-box or nine hours on a standard three-pin plug house connection, the Mini Recharged offers a range of 103 miles.

Two special Mini Recharged vehicles have already been revealed - one in collaboration with designer Sir Paul Smith and the other linking up with London-based artist Lakwena.

"We attach great importance in ensuring that Mini Recharged conversions retain the authenticity of the original vehicle when we marry it to the latest 21st Century EV technology," said Recharged Heritage co- founders and directors Tom Festa, Chris Harper and Chris Hazel.

"Not only does this idea underline the legacy of the traditional British brand, but also demonstrates British engineering excellence fit for the future."