The results also showed that the Mini Es covered an average daily distance of 29.7 miles - further than the conventionally powered 'control' cars that BMW also sent out to see how usage compared (presumably because the trialists were enjoying the cars). The petrol-powered Mini Coopers and BMW 116is covered an average of 26.5 miles, slightly more than the 25 miles Mini claims is the national average.
Because of this, and the average single trip distance, eight out of 10 of those that took part in the test said that 80 percent of their journeys could be done in the Mini E. If the Mini had come with rear seats and a bigger boot, then nine out of 10 trialists said they would have been able to do all of their trips in the electric car.
The survey found that they charged the cars at home, and on average fewer than three times a week. While this was as much to do with making the most of cheap night-time electricity tariffs as it was with the lack of a charging infrastructure, 82 percent of testers said it was "essential" for a network of charging points to be established.
This was contradicted however, as range anxiety appeared not to be a significant issue, with some of the respondents doing long trips on a regular basis. One driver did more than one trip of 88 miles in cold winter weather.
The highest mileage put onto an individual car by one driver was 7954 miles in a six month period, while the average distance was 3,226.
Nearly all of the 138 drivers that took part said they would consider buying an electric car in the future - 96 percent said they would do so at one point, while 30 percent said they would consider buying one in the next year. 51 percent said they would happily pay more for an EV.
The Mini E was a two-seater adaptation of the standard Mini, which is powered by a 201bhp electric motor that should be fully chargeable in 3.5 hours, and could achieve 112 miles between charging.
Kulveer Ranger, the Mayor of London's environment director, said that the study will also shape policy decisions, adding that Boris Johnson's plans to expand the Source London charging point infrastructure will address many of the concerns raised.
Kulveer Ranger, the Mayor of London's environment director, said that the study will also shape policy decisions, adding that Boris Johnson's plans to expand the Source London charging point infrastructure will address many of the concerns raised.
"Electric driving technology is coming on leaps and bounds, but people naturally still have questions and concerns," he said.
"Research such as this ... into real-life experiences is invaluable as it debunks some common myths and underscores why electric vehicles are perfect for urban driving."
