In an exclusive Valentine's Day announcement, The Independent can reveal that Britain's most beloved automotive icon is undergoing a revolutionary electric transformation. Oxfordshire-based specialist Everrati has confirmed ambitious plans to resurrect the original 1960s Mini as a fully electric vehicle, blending nostalgic design with cutting-edge zero-emissions technology.
The Emotional Legacy of a British Classic
The original Mini, immortalised by cultural icons like Twiggy and The Beatles and celebrated for its motorsport triumphs including Paddy Hopkirk's Monte Carlo Rally victory, holds a unique place in British automotive history. For Everrati founder Justin Lunny, this project represents more than just another conversion in the company's expanding portfolio of electrified classics.
"I think it's one of the most emotionally important cars ever built," Lunny explained in an exclusive interview. "We've all got a Mini memory. It's a car people absolutely love, one that to many people is a very emotional car."
From Royal Request to Strategic Vision
The project originated unexpectedly when Everrati received a bespoke commission from the family office of a Middle Eastern prince, who requested an electric Mini inspired by high-end restomod traditions. "He loved what we do and he said, 'could you do this for us?'" Lunny recalled. This singular request quickly evolved into a strategic opportunity to create what Lunny describes as "an entry-level Everrati" that could make electrified classics more accessible.
Preservation Through Electrification
Everrati's approach to the Mini transformation mirrors their established methodology for converting Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz Pagoda, and Land Rover classics. Each donor Mini undergoes a comprehensive restoration process, stripped to a bare shell before being meticulously rebuilt with a custom electric powertrain. Specialist components from other Everrati models will be integrated while maintaining the vehicle's original character.
Lunny emphasises that preservation, not reinvention, drives their philosophy: "The whole point is not to ruin these cars. It's about respecting them and actually creating something that is going to be fun, engaging, and used for generations to come."
Technical Specifications and Urban Focus
The Mini's compact dimensions necessitate modest battery packaging, targeting a practical range of approximately 110 to 120 miles. This specification intentionally positions the vehicle for urban environments rather than long-distance touring, faithfully reflecting the original Mini's purpose. Charging will utilise a 7kW AC system designed primarily for convenient overnight home charging.
Crucially, the exterior will maintain its iconic appearance. "You don't need to do anything with it," Lunny asserted. "People love it for what it is." Everrati avoids structural alterations to original body shells and preserves chassis architecture while subtly upgrading suspension and braking systems to accommodate the electric drivetrain.
Accessible Luxury and Global Expansion
Pricing for the Everrati Mini starts at £155,000, excluding donor vehicle costs and local taxes. This positions it significantly below Everrati's average vehicle price of nearly half a million US dollars (£367,000) over the past year, establishing the Mini as the brand's most accessible entry point into electrified classic ownership.
While proudly British, Everrati is expanding globally with approximately 70% of current deliveries going to US clients. The company has developed a separate "Powered by Everrati" division to supply turnkey electric powertrains to low-volume manufacturers and plans a Southern California facility to serve its largest market.
Engineering Excellence and Selective Projects
Everrati's engineering team includes former specialists from McLaren, Bentley, Jaguar Land Rover, Rimac, and Formula One. Each conversion involves comprehensive re-engineering beyond simple engine replacement, considering weight distribution, centre of gravity, dial design, switchgear, air conditioning, and software calibration.
"We don't just convert a car," Lunny emphasised. The company remains selective about projects, having declined requests to electrify certain historically significant models unless damaged examples could be sourced. "We said no, it's too important a car," Lunny recalled of one proposal.
Discreet Modernisation and Climate Consciousness
Inside the vehicle, subtle modern enhancements include hidden Apple CarPlay integration, upgraded audio systems, heating capabilities, and optional heated seats, all concealed behind period-correct fascia designs to maintain aesthetic authenticity.
Everrati's founding was inspired by Lunny's desire to reconcile classic motoring with environmental responsibility, sparked by his daughter's climate concerns and the electric Jaguar E-type Zero revealed at the royal wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. "The goal was always to create the world's most iconic electric cars," Lunny stated.
More than six decades after Sir Alec Issigonis revolutionised automotive packaging with the original Mini, this British icon now prepares for a new electrified chapter, preserving its cheeky character while embracing a sustainable future.
