The MINI E is currently being delivered to 450 lessees in the state of New York and California.  For now, MINI E drivers will have to make due with charging from a 110 volt outlet until the Underwriters Laboratories approves the 220 volt charging cable.

In a slight mix up, MINI was not capable of getting the required approval for the 220 volt charging cable in time for the release of the vehicle.  Without the approval, MINI can not send out the cable and instead drivers will have to rely on standard 110 volt power to recharge their vehicles until approval comes in near the end of July.

The MINI E can charge through a dedicated 220 volt outlet in 4 hours.  MINI E lessees had to have this outlet installed in their homes in order to take delivery of the vehicle, but they will be unable to use this charging option until the cable gets approval and instead will have to resort to charging via a 110 volt outlet which takes up to 23 hours.

At 23 hours, some long distance commuter will only be able to use their vehicle every other day while they wait for it to charge enough to make the trip again.  The main problem associated with this mix up is that early adopters of new technology usually speak up about their experiences either in positive or negative ways.  A negative first experience with an EV could persuade possible future EV buyers to consider other types of vehicles.

To rectify the problem, MINI has announced that customers will not have to pay the monthly lease fee of $850 until the 220 volt cable arrives.

Source:  USA Today