Mini has partnered with the Electric Vehicle Experience Centre (EVEC) in Milton Keynes, ahead of the launch of its first fully-electric model.

Two Mini Countryman Plug-In Hybrid vehicles will initially join the Experience fleet and will be on display so visitors can explore the car or book a test-drive.

In March next year, the Mini Electric will be launched in the UK and will also join the EVEC fleet.

David George, director of Mini UK, said: “Mini fully supports what the Electric Vehicle Experience Centre stands for, to inform and transform public opinion about flexibility, whether it’s for the daily commute or a big weekend adventure, so it’s a perfect addition to the EVEC fleet.”

The EVEC is part of the Go Ultra Low City scheme funded by the government and supports the town’s aim to grow and promote the use of plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, offering free education, test drives and advice to visitors.

Visitors can also rent the demonstrator vehicles for a small weekly fee to get better acquainted with EV ownership without the pressure of a sales environment.

Located within Centre:MK, the centre has welcomed more than 100,000 visitors in two years and conducted more than 4,500 test drives.

Ted Foster, Electric Vehicle Centre manager added: “I am really excited for what our new Mini partnership will do for the EVEC and for the future adoption of electric vehicles.”