Category: MINI
As part of the MINI ‘Big Love’ campaign, Bowker MINI on Preston Docks and Trident Park in Blackburn will volunteer staff time to The Ribble Rivers Trust from August. The centres will also invite MINI owners to join them in volunteering activities.
The Ribble Rivers Trust is involved in a number of important conservation activities in the Ribble catchment area. Volunteers will be involved in organised support which may include tree planting, clean ups, fencing, and brash building using wood from fallen trees.
For Bowker MINI in Blackburn, Daniel Gibson said: “All our staff live locally. Many of our staff enjoy the Ribble Valley countryside for recreation and leisure pursuits. Bowker MINI already supports a range of local charities and organisations. But we wanted to build on our volunteering and charity partnerships; especially when it comes to helping the local area.”
For Bowker MINI in Preston, Peter Turner added: “With the Ribble Rivers Trust, there are many different activities and options to interest staff. We are promoting the conservation work in our Centre and to our MINI owners; encouraging them to get involved too!”
The Bowker MINI volunteering pledge also forms part of a national initiative launched by MINI UK called Big Love. MINI retailers nationally have submitted a unique Big Love pledge. Each pledge is an ongoing commitment to each retailer’s local community. This simple promise encourages centres to build partnerships with local organisations, like The Ribble Rivers Trust, to deliver help and support.
The Ribble Rivers Trust is a local charity working to improve, protect and promote the River Ribble for both people and wildlife. Based in Clitheroe, the Trust works with the public and private organisations to deliver river improvements. Projects can take place across the entire Ribble catchment for the benefit of local people and the environment.
Jack Spees, chief executive for The Ribble Rivers Ribble Trust, said: “Our team of Ribble Rivers Trust volunteers are incredibly important to us. They are the vital work force we need to help deliver our projects, and the eyes and ears of this vast area! It’s great news that Bowker MINI staff will be joining us.
“With over 3,114 miles of rivers and streams in the catchment there is always a lot to do. Bowker MINI staff will enjoy the great outdoors and meet like-minded people, as well as gaining experience and learning new skills.
“All Bowker MINI’s help is appreciated. Their volunteers will be able to do as much or as little as they can manage. We can’t be everywhere at once. But, with a dedicated team of volunteers on the ground, we can get pretty close!”
Organisations interested in volunteering for the Ribble Rivers Trust can find out more here by visiting ribbletrust.org.uk/volunteer/
This Easter weekend, all Bowker Motor Group Centres are open for Sales and Aftersales, view all opening times below.
Opening hours for over the Easter Bank Holiday Weekend.
sales opening hours
Service and Parts opening hours
To make an enquiry or request a call back, please Click Here to contact us.
Putting you in the driving seat.
Enjoy the thrill of driving your MINI instantly. MINI 5 Day DriveAway Car Insurance is a comprehensive policy. Once you activate it, you are covered from the moment you collect your new MINI for 5 days*.
For more information and to activate MINI 5 Day DriveAway Car Insurance, please complete the form below.
Terms and Conditions.
* MINI 5 Day DriveAway Car Insurance applies when purchasing a new MINI only.
MINI 5 Day DriveAway Car Insurance is underwritten by Highway Insurance Company Limited. MINI Car Insurance is arranged and administered by Wrisk Transfer Limited, registered in England under company number 10657213 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wrisk Limited. Wrisk Transfer Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Financial Services Register number 788062.
We are delighted to announce that we will be attending the Lancashire Business Expo on 25 March, so we thought we would give the event organisers, Shout Network, the chance to experience the MINI Electric for themselves!
Shout Expo Director, Jordan, was excited for his weekend with the MINI Electric and having never driven an electric car before he wasn’t sure what to expect. We always find that you can tell someone 100 times about how fast the MINI Electric is off the mark, and how it handles like it’s on rails, so we weren’t surprised when we received a message 10 minutes after he collected the car saying, “It sure is nippy, it surprised me even after what you said!”
Jordan had a busy weekend ahead of him, with trips around Lancashire in preparation for the Expo. Following his activity on social media, we saw Jordan make a trip to Preston North End Football Club, Winckley Square and Preston Docklands to name a few.
Here is what Jordan had to say about his experience with the MINI Electric:
“Having a usual preference for larger cars, I was pleasantly surprised at how roomy and luxurious the MINI Electric felt. It had an intuitive dashboard with all the tech you’d expect from a leading automotive brand such as MINI. The MINI Electric was an impressive, smooth drive and very responsive on the road. This was my first experience of driving an electric car, so I wasn’t 100% sure what to expect. I was surprised at how simple the charging was and how the car handles. The whole experience has certainly made me an electric car convert!”
Are you interested in test driving the MINI Electric, and seeing how it could work for your business? Book your test drive* today.
Alternatively, you can nominate a business for the MINI Electric’s next adventure by filling out the form below.
*Test drives subject to applicant status and availability.
The All-Weather Floor Mats are perfectly matched to your MINI and reliably protect the footwell against water, dirt and wear for both the front and rear. The special material is particularly flexible and fitted with a holding strap which makes removing the mat from the car easier. Available for all MINI models.
BENEFITS:
- The mats have been custom-sized to the floor trim. The flexible, special material is a perfect fit.
- The non-slip, coloured surface of the floor mat has an extremely high-quality design and enhances the interior of the car.
- The mats are surrounded by a raised mat edge, preventing the pooling of liquids in the footwell area.
- The structured surface ensures the drainage of water in the heel area, so that it is very effective in even the wettest weather.
MAT PROTECTION KIT – £135
The Mat Protection Pack includes front and rear all-weather floor mats and a rear luggage compart mat. Perfect to protect your MINI all year round.
Individual pricing starts from:
- Front All Weather Floor Mats – From £52
- Rear All Weather Floor Mats – From £42
- All Weather Boot Liner – From £54
For more information, please call Bowker Blackburn on 01254 274333 or Bowker Preston on 01772 761234. Alternatively, complete the enquiry form and we’ll call you back.
Learner drivers in Clitheroe will be amongst the first in Lancashire to take driving lessons in a new electric MINI.
Bob Devine of Clitheroe School of Motoring has become the first driving instructor to buy an electric MINI from Bowker in Blackburn. His new MINI electric will be available to students to drive later this month.
After picking up his new MINI from the Bowker MINI centre on Trident Park in Blackburn, Bob Devine said: “I’ve driven MINIs from Bowker for more than 16 years now. When the MINI electric was launched last year I was immediately curious. Then I drove one – and wow! It was so smooth! I started to wonder how my learners would react if I bought one. I asked followers on my business page how they would feel about learning on an electric vehicle. And the response was extremely positive.
“I had no issues about switching over to electric. The automatic transmission is more popular than ever with learners. In fact, many tell me they may never need to drive a manual transmission vehicle. I have two children who, when old enough, will both learn in the automatic electric MINI. Now the driving industry as a whole is starting to adapt; ready for the future.
“The fuel costs alone are at least a third of my previous diesel/petrol car. That’s before you factor in road tax. The range is perfect for my business and lifestyle needs. And the environmental benefits are the icing on the cake.”
The MINI Electric delivers 0-62mph in just 7.3 seconds. Bob will charge at home or at one of the increasing number of over 11,000 public charging points.
For Bowker MINI, Adam O’Neill, said: “Bob has been a valued customer for many years. He is one of an increasing number of drivers taking an interest in our electric and hybrid models. We hope that Bob’s students will love driving his new electric MINI as much as he does.”
The growth of the EV market is expected to accelerate in the coming years as the UK prepares itself for the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales. By the end of 2022, it’s projected that electric cars will outsell diesel and mild hybrid diesel.
Have a question about your MINI? We’ve put together some of our frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the answer you’re after you can submit a question using the enquiry form.
To contact Bowker Preston located at Preston Docklands simply call 01772 761234, alternatively you can contact them online here.
To contact Bowker Blackburn located at Trident Park on the Ring Road, simply call 01254 274333, alternatively you can contact them online here.
The opening hours for Bowker Preston MINI are as follows:
A full service for a MINI might be scheduled every 12 months if you use your vehicle a lot and record relatively high mileage, or around every 10-12,000 miles. Compared to an interim service, a full service covers more vehicle checks, such as air filter maintenance, door locks and spark plugs.
When your MINI requires a service a service icon will appear on your dashboard. If you have added your MINI to the app you will be sent a notification, you will also be able to book a service via the MINI App.
You are always welcome to bring your vehicle in so that our service department may perform an actual key read on your vehicle to let you know if it is due for service.
The cost of a service can vary depending on the age and mileage of the vehicle. Bowker MINI offer a bespoke discount* on vehicles over three years old. Learn more about our Bespoke Discount click here.
Both Bowker Preston and Bowker Blackburn have service Centres with trained MINI technicians. Book your appointment or contact us today for a quote. Call 01772 761234 for Preston, or 01254 274333 for Blackburn.
The price of an MOT at Bowker MINI is just £46.85. Not only will you be leaving your pride and joy in the safe hands of an expert MINI Technician, but they will take it through 150 rigorous checks and only use Genuine MINI Parts for any repairs.
Unsure about when your MINI needs an MOT? Click here and enter your vehicle’s make and registration number.
Yes, you can part-exchange your current MINI for a new model, and the good news, it’s really simply and our team are here to assist you with any questions you have. So, whether you’re looking for a fully Electric, Plug-in Hybrid, Diesel or a Petrol MINI we have what you’re looking for. You’re guaranteed to find the perfect MINI for you.
Why not use our Finance Health Check to see what your vehicle is worth?
Selling your MINI is really easy! We’re are currently looking for MINIs to add to our Approved Used stock. Our valuations are quick, accurate, and reflect the condition of your car at the time of inspection. Holding a full MINI service history will improve the value of your car.
Yes, at Bowker MINI we offer Complimentary Finance Health Check, regardless of the make or model of vehicle you currently own. Why not see what your vehicle could be worth?
With the MINI App you can plan journeys more easily than ever before. Start from the comfort of your couch by planning your route from the app, then send it directly to your MINI’s infotainment system so you’re ready to go. Plus, you can use the MINI App on your smartphone to track down where you’ve parked and even check whether you locked your doors. And when your next service is due, the app will ping you a notification to remind you to get booked in with your local Bowker MINI Centre.
To add your MINI to your MINI App, first make sure you have downloaded the app. When given the option to login or register. Once this stage is complete and you have logged in, enter your four digit pin to complete authentication.
You will then be able to add your MINI onto the App using your vehicles VIN number.
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Submit your question and we will get back to you.
*Ts&Cs apply. Bespoke discount not applicable for any additional work required. Please contact us for more information.
MEET YOUR MINI SPECIAL EDITION.
Find a car that’s as unique as you are. Meet the MINI Editions. Delightfully detailed and inspired by our rich heritage of motorsport and design, these special edition MINIs for 2022 are a unique reimagining of our current models, packed with unique exterior styling, striking body colours, dynamic trims, and stylish interiors.
Above all, these special edition MINIs are all about Big Love – the optimistic MINI attitude that sees beauty in individuality, and the potential in creativity. All the MINI feels, but with an extra-special twist.
So whether you’re an individualist, free-spirt, wild adventurer, or understated stylist, there’s a MINI special edition to suit you.
MINI RESOLUTE EDITION.
UNMISTAKABLY RESOLUTE.
Time to make a statement. The MINI Resolute is the special edition Hatchback, Electric and Convertible that proudly wears our heritage on its sleeve, all the way down to its exclusive go-faster bonnet stripes.
- Rebel Green finish
- Pepper White contrast roof and mirror caps
- Exclusive Resolute Bronze design elements
- Sleek styling in Piano Black
- Cloth/leatherette upholstery in Black Pearl
Available for: 3-door Hatch, 5-door Hatch, Convertible and MINI Electric
MINI CLUBMAN UNTOLD EDITION.
STORIES UNTOLD.
Stylish, whatever your story. Chic craftsmanship is taken to the next level with the MINI Clubman Untold Edition.
- Sage Green finish
- Edition-specific bonnet stripes
- Exclusive Refined Brass design elements
- Sage Green MINI Yours Leather Lounge seats
Edition specific 18” - Untold Spoke Alloy Wheels
Available for: Cooper, Cooper S
MINI COUNTRYMAN UNTAMED EDITION.
ADVENTURE UNTAMED.
Adventurous, whatever the weather. The MINI Untamed is the rugged SUV.
It’s the MINI Countryman levelled up for even bigger adventures.
- Momentum Grey paint finish
- Roof Rails and mirror caps in Piano Black
- Exclusive Frozen Bluestone elements
MINI Yours leather lounge Highland Green upholstery - 18” Untamed 2 Tone Spoke Alloy Wheels
Available for: MINI Countryman and MINI Countryman Plug-in Hybrid
UNLOCK THE MINI ELECTRIC. 11 – 2pm, Sunday 20 February.
MINI Electric looks like a MINI, but does it handle like one? Does it get you where you’d like to go in style and comfort? Is it easy to charge?
When it comes to something new, we all have questions. But why not ask someone who knows best?
At our MINI Electric event running between 11-2pm on Sunday 20 February, you’ll be able to meet Phil and Sue, at our Preston MINI Centre, and Ian, at our Blackburn MINI Centre. They’re genuine MINI Electric drivers, so if anyone has all the juicy gossip, it’s them.
They’ve been zapping about in their MINI Electric, and now having been Electric owners for a while, we think they’re the best people to be on hand to answer any of your questions, chat all things charging and share their electric experience with you.
We’ll also give you the chance to be in the driver’s seat* so you can feel the thrill of its instant torque for yourself.
And of course – it’s not an event unless there are refreshments, right? We’ll be serving up special MINI Electric cupcakes alongside tea and coffee from our refreshment bar.
To reserve your place at the event, simply complete the form below.
Terms and Conditions
*Test drive subject to availability and driver eligibility.
ONE YEAR’S FREE CAR INSURANCE | FOUR YEAR'S FREE SERVICING
monthly rentals of £333, plus £0 initial rental*.
MORE FEEL-GOOD JOY THAN EVER BEFORE.
The MINI Electric hatchback delivers the same feel-good joy the Hatch is famous for, with all the excitement and efficiency of being a fully electric car. Put your foot down to feel that instant torque, as you zip from 0-62mph in just 7.3 seconds. And enjoy that trademark go-kart handling while emitting zero driving emissions.
ONE YEAR FREE CAR INSURANCE.
Enjoy extra grins when you drive away your MINI and take advantage of one year’s free comprehensive car insurance on new MINIs ordered from 30 June to 28 December 2023**.
4 YEAR'S FREE SERVICING.
With MINI Electric Service Inclusive†† you can relax until your car’s fourth birthday, knowing it’s getting our best care at our best price. The plan includes Vehicle service checks, Brake fluid servicing, Micro filter servicing and MOT Protect for the life of the package.
Premium design and styling details of the Level 2 MINI Electric includes:
- Electric Folding Door Mirrors
- MINI Navigation
- Cruise Control
- Comfort Access
- Reversing Camera
- Rear-view Mirror with Auto dimming
- Extended storage
- Front Heated Seats
- Ambient Lighting
- Rear Parking Sensors
- Additional Interior Lighting
- MINI TeleServices
Below are our MINI Select Finance Examples. All quotes can be tailored to your required model, deposit and annual mileage so please contact us for a personalised quotation.
For more information or to arrange a test drive†, please complete the enquiry form on this page and we’ll be in touch. Click here to view our Centre opening hours.
MINI Personal Contract Hire Finance Example.
| Model | MINI Electric Level 2 | MINI Convertible Electric |
|---|---|---|
| 47 Monthly Rentals | £333.35 | £569.98 |
| Term of Agreement | 48 Months | 48 Months |
| Initial rental | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| Deposit Contibution | £5,500.00 | £11,375.00 |
| Annual Mileage | 8,000 | 8,000 |
| Excess Mileage Charge | 7.50p | 9.22p |
*Bowker Blackburn Ltd and Bowker Preston Ltd are credit brokers.
Price shown is for a 48 month Personal Contract Hire agreement for the models shown above with a contract mileage of 32,000 miles and excess mileage charges. Applies to new vehicles ordered between 01/10/2023 and 31/12/2023 and registered by 31/03/2024 (subject to availability) or within 10 days of vehicle arriving at Retailer. Retail customers only. At the end of your agreement you must return the vehicle. Excess mileage, vehicle condition and other charges may be payable. Hire available subject to status to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. Hire provided by MINI Financial Services, a trading name of BMW Financial Services (GB) Limited, Summit ONE, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 0FB. Bowker Preston Limited and Bowker Blackburn Limited introduces customers to a selected panel of lenders, which includes MINI Financial Services. We receive a fixed commission for introducing you to MINI Financial Services calculated by reference to the vehicle or as a percentage of the amount you borrow. We do not have any discretion to vary the interest rate or APR you pay under your finance agreement. An introduction from us does not amount to independent financial advice.
†Test drive subject to availability and driver eligibility
‡For full terms and conditions, please click here.
**Offer valid for new MINIs ordered from 30 June to 28 December 2023 and registered by 31 March 2024. Offer excludes MINI John Cooper Works models. MINI Car Insurance is managed and administered by Wrisk Transfer Limited, registered in England under company number 10657213 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wrisk Limited. Registered Address: 45 Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7BG, United Kingdom. The company is registered in England under company number 09721622. Wrisk Transfer Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Financial Services Register number 788062.
This insurance is underwritten by Highway Insurance Company Limited. LV= and Liverpool Victoria are registered trademarks of Liverpool Victoria Financial Services Limited and LV= and LV= Liverpool Victoria are trading styles of the Liverpool Victoria General Insurance Group of companies. Highway Insurance Company Limited, registered in England and Wales number 3730662 is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority, register number 202972. Registered address: 57 Ladymead, Guildford GU1 1DB. Tel. 0330 1239970.
MINI Insurance Solutions is a trading name of BMW Financial Services (GB) Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, reference number 312578, registered office: Summit ONE, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 0FB. BMW Financial Services (GB) Limited and Wrisk Transfer Limited are not part of the same corporate group. Drivers must be aged between 21-80. Cover only for the use of the insured vehicle. Theft or attempted theft of your car if your car is unoccupied at the time of theft, unless your car is locked and the ignition key or other removable ignition device was not in, on, or left unattended in the immediate proximity of the car. Loss or damage to non- standard audio / visual and other non standard in- car entertainment. Driving other cars restricted to drivers aged 25 or over. No Claims Bonus (NCB) Protection is only available if you have earned at least 4 years NCB at inception of the policy. Option to purchase No Claims Bonus protection and Legal Expenses cover during free cover period. Uninsured driver promise will only apply once we prove the accident was not your fault and you provide details of the uninsured driver if possible. Optional add-ons are not included within this offer. This promo is not transferable.
††T&Cs apply. Cover applicable for Electric vehicles until four years from vehicle registration and Petrol and PHEV vehicles until five years from vehicle registration. MOT Protect will cover all warrantable items with the exception of windscreen, wheels, tyres, items replaced as part of routine servicing (e.g. brake disks and pads) modified and/or non-MINI components.
Built to journey big, the MINI Countryman offers cutting-edge tech and stacks of room. No other MINI is better equipped for adventure. And with our Plug-in Hybrid model, explore more with fewer emissions.
Don’t just take our work for it, Bowker MINI were proud to partner with Five Little Doves for a Big Family Day Out in the MINI Countryman. The local Lancashire family took to the road on their big adventure and visited some local hotspots – including a day trip with their four-legged friend, Oscar, to Yarrow Valley and an action-packed weekend at Ribby Hall Village. Here is what Laura and her family had to say:
“Last weekend we set off on our Mini Big Days Out to Ribby Hall and what a weekend it was! We are so lucky here in Lancashire to have some gorgeous places to visit and even luckier to explore them in the new Mini Countryman for the weekend! With 8.8 inch screen navigation, LED rear lights in a new Union Jack design, fully digital display cockpit and go-kart handling it really does have everything you could ever need from a family car. And, having never driven a Mini before, I was well and truly converted!! 😍
Our weekend was packed with festive fun – the big light switch on at Ribby Hall, visiting Father Christmas, a Beauty & The Beast panto plus a wander round the Wild Discovery zoo. It was such a lovely way to spend some time together as a family and somewhere we will definitely go back to! ❤️
Handing back the Mini Countryman at the end of the weekend was hard (my own car feels so boring in comparison!) but fingers crossed it won’t be the last Mini Countryman we drive – I’m ready for our next Mini Big Days Out adventure!! 🙌”
Are you ready for a big adventure?
To show you just how spacious and supremely fun a MINI Countryman is to drive, we’ve been exploring to find the best views, adventure, and fun for you to enjoy on a Big Day Out of your own. We’ve scouted out some locations we think you’ll love to visit:
Whether you choose to visit one, two or all the locations we’ve picked, it’s set to be an amazing day experiencing all the MINI Countryman has to offer. Book your test drive today and get ready for your Big Day Out*.
*Test drive subject to availability and driver eligibility.
The MINI Convertible pairs the inimitable spirit of the original Hatch with the excitement of a soft top. Benefit from zero-emission driving with the first ever MINI Electric Convertible. With just 150 available in the UK and limited to only 999 worldwide, this MINI combines wind-in-your-hair freedom with all-electric performance for the very first time.
Marking 30 years since the launch of the original MINI Convertible, you can still embrace all the elements and open-air adventures – just with added torque, easy charging, and none of the driving emissions. Plus, a multitude of benefits for your business!
Below is our compelling MINI Convertible Contract Hire* offer, designed for businesses running fleets of less than 50 cars. All quotes can be tailored to specific mileage profiles.
For more information or to arrange a test drive†, call Bowker Blackburn on 01254 274333 or Bowker Preston on 01772 761234. Alternatively, complete the enquiry form on the page and a member of the team will be in touch.
Business Contract Hire Offers
| Model | MINI Electric Convertible |
|---|---|
| Term | 36 Months |
| Initial Rental | £3,434.74 |
| 35 Monthly Rentals | £557.29 |
| Annual Mileage | 6,000 |
| Excess Mileage Charge | 10.62p |
Bowker Blackburn Limited and Bowker Preston Limited are credit brokers.
Business users only. Price excludes VAT at 20%. Prices shown are for a 36 month Business Contract Hire agreement. Applies for new vehicles ordered between 03/01/24 and 02/04/24 and registered by 30/09/2024 (subject to availability) or within 10 days of vehicle arriving at Retailer. At the end of your agreement you must return the vehicle. Excess mileage, vehicle condition and other charges may be payable. Available subject to status to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. The amount of VAT you can reclaim depends on your business VAT status. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. Hire provided by BMW Group Corporate Finance, a trading name of Alphabet (GB) Limited, Alphabet House, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 0FB. Bowker Blackburn Limited and Bowker Preston introduce customers to a selected panel of lenders, which includes MINI Financial Services. We receive a fixed commission for introducing you to BMW Financial Services calculated by reference to the vehicle or as a percentage of the amount you borrow. We do not have any discretion to vary the interest rate or APR you pay under your finance agreement. An introduction from us does not amount to independent financial advice.
†Test drives subject to applicant status and availability.
A Lancashire rescue dog is leading a North West car retailer’s national crusade to produce and share the best video in the country on social media.
George, abandoned by previous owners 9 years ago, has made his acting debut in a video that celebrates the feeling motorists get when they collect a new car. The video is representing Bowker MINI in Blackburn and Preston in a national competition.
The video also features George’s owner and fellow acting debutante Jess O’Neill. Jess is a marketing executive at Bowker Motor Group. Together they demonstrate a motorist’s experiences from the moment she wakes up through to picking up her new MINI Electric and driving it for the very first time. The MINI Electric was launched in March 2020 and it is the first fully-electric MINI.
Bowker Motor Group marketing executive Jess O’Neill said: “George and I loved the challenge of acting in the video. George is very special to us. He is so cheeky and I think that glint in his eye comes through in the video footage. He’s not really used to the limelight. But he took his first acting and filming experience in his stride.”
The video is the automotive retailer’s entry in a national competition for MINI retailers to develop influencer content then shared on each retailer’s social channels. The video will be judged for creativity and innovation alongside others from throughout the UK.
Bowker Motor Group marketers teamed up with local creatives Sam Mellor from Mellor Media and photographer Scott Clarkson who filmed the video together. It was shot over a day and a half in locations throughout Lancashire including Pleasington, Preston City Centre and Wrea Green.
Four finalists will represent the UK and Republic of Ireland in the global competition.
Earlier this year, Bowker MINI centres beat off competition from more than 130 other UK centres to win the Marketing Champion category at the MINI UK Retail Awards. Bowker MINI was the only retailer group located outside of the South to be shortlisted in the marketing category.
The first place finish saw Bowker MINI go one better than two years ago when they finished runner up in the same category.
Bowker MINI are proud to announce that we have partnered up with the wonderful people at Brindle Distillery.
Based at Holmes Farm in Brindle, the award-winning distillery, known for the name ‘Cuckoo GIN’ are dedicated to the future and strive to be sustainable. They take pride in using locally sourced raw materials, with a natural spring delivering fresh spring water to the distillery which is then used in the distillation of their spirits and for cooling their still, nicknamed ‘Maggie’.
With our expanding MINI Electric and Hybrid range, Bowker MINI wanted to contribute to the sustainability of their business. Currently, the distillery ensures the use of sustainable and ethically sourced botanicals from the UK and across the world that give their spirits their award-winning taste.
Mark Long, Director and Master Distiller had this to say after their MINI Electric Experience, “Teaming up with a local company like Bowker MINI was a great privilege, to do it because of our shared sustainable principles was the icing on the cake. At Brindle Distillery (Cuckoo Gin) we live by our tag line, ‘Inspired by the past, dedicated to the future’. The past harking back to times and farming stories created our brand name Cuckoo Gin. We are dedicated to the future by using the land on the farm to create a product that in turn builds the local economy, creates jobs and tourism for the area. We strive to be sustainable and green in all aspects of our product production, from using biomass to heat our still, using our own water in production and spreading waste back on our land. Part of our long-term goal would include using electric transport to ship our products and meet customers out on the road. Bowker have introduced us to this technology, and we are massively impressed with the performance of the MINI Electric and the range from just one charge. We hope this is the start of a great partnership together.”
More About the MINI Electric
The MINI Electric, offering a range of up to 145 miles* from a full charge is a practical option for any business striving towards sustainability. Financially, the Electric strikes a chord too, costing approximately just 4p a mile and as of April 2021 just 1% BIK for Business users. Charging could not be easier either, with a wallbox the MINI Electric will be ready to go in just three hours, so whilst you are charging your batteries, so is your MINI. And with the charging network continually growing, with the help of a 50kw charging unit, now found at many motorway services, the MINI Electric can go from 0-80% charge in just 35 minutes. So, a quick snack and a coffee and you are ready to go, and with the Electric going from 0 to 62 in just 7.3 seconds you’ll be there before you know it.
Do you know or have a company that could benefit from a MINI Electric Experience? Why not ‘Nominate a Business’ and find out?
*The values of fuel consumptions, CO2 emissions and energy consumptions shown are determined according to the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the version applicable at the time of type approval. The figures refer to a vehicle with basic configuration in Germany and the range shown considers optional equipment and the different size of wheels and tires available on the selected model and may vary during the configuration.
explore:
ELECTRIC CAR CHARGING AT HOME.
The great thing about electric car charging at home is that it’s easy to do. There are different home car charging points that you can use depending on what suits you best, so you can be sure you’re always ready to hit the road.
HOUSEHOLD PLUG.
You don’t actually need any complex installation or unit to charge at home.
Simply use the standard charging cable and adapter included with your all-electric MINI to plug into any conventional household 230-volt power socket (SchuKo).
2.5 hours of slow charging will be enough for your next commute of up to 50 km.
A whole night using the household plug will be enough on average to give you several days of city driving.
FASTER CHARGING WITH A WALLBOX.
A wallbox offers you a convenient, faster alternative to the standard mains supply, if you want to charge your EV regularly at home.
More power: a dedicated, 3-phase 11 kW wallbox connection will generally give you up to 3-times faster charging time. So your All-electric MINI can be fully charged within around 3.5 hours.
Safety first: a wallbox is specifically designed with overheating protection and a fault circuit breaker to allow for a constant high load.
Convenience: there is nowhere more convenient to charge your car than those places you spend most time during the day or overnight.
To install a wallbox, you will need the expert assistance of an approved electrician. If you are interested in installing a MINI Wallbox, we would be happy to help you locate such a specialist in your area. MINI now offers highly attractive options which give you the chance to finance a wallbox with your All-Electric MINI at competitive rates.
You can find more information about the wallboxes we offer right below.
Charging your MINI at home is just as easy as charging anything else. Whether it’s through a conventional 3-pin plug or a home wall box, find everything you need to know by watching our useful home charging video below.
ELECTRIC CAR CHARGING POINTS.
RAPID CHARGING.
The fastest charging points are typically found at motorway service stations and on main routes. They use a DC supply to charge rapidly at a rating of up to 50kw. Using this method, the MINI Electric can charge from 0-80% in as little as 36 minutes.
FAST CHARGING.
Fast charging points are the most common and deliver an AC supply at a higher rating of either 7.4kw or 11kw. While MINI Electric can use both, it has a maximum rating of 11kw with an AC supply. Which means a full charge would take 3 hours and 30 minutes.
SLOW CHARGING.
Slow charging points are less common and tend to be older devices. They deliver an AC supply and are rated at up to 2.3kw. If you have enough time, MINI Electric can achieve a full charge in 12 hours. You can also use this method by charging with a standard 3 pin plug at home.
PUBLIC CHARGING.
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR PARKING TIME.
Ever more supermarkets, shopping centres and DIY stores are offering free use of their AC, and DC, charging stations or triple chargers at their parking facilities. Many hotels are also keen to be seen as more environmentally aware and making more effort to accommodate guests with electric vehicles. Multi-storey car parks are also offering electric parking spaces at no extra cost.
Your employer might also consider setting up charging facilities for you and your colleagues if space allows.
TYPE 2 CHARGERS.
Many AC public charging stations require you to bring your own Type 2 cable. They offer the same power as a wallbox athome and you can charge a MINI Electric with the same 11 kW, while the MINI COUNTRYMAN plug-in hybrid uses 3.7 kW. Your MINI includes a Type 2 cable, enabling you to charge wherever you go. Take a look at the other cables available below.
CCS FAST CHARGERS.
Wherever you’re heading off to, your all-electric MINI couldn’t be better equipped. You can also take advantage of fast charging of up to 50 kW via the Combined Charging System (CCS). This is the standard for rapid charging in Europe.
The upper part of the plug resembles the Type 2 plug, while the more powerful conectors below allow for direct current (DC) with a much higher voltage and amperage. AC power has to be transformed by your vehicle, while DC power directly charges your battery.
CCS chargers include the charging cable and no additional hardware is needed. The combination of practically-sized charging capacity and stable charging performance of your MINI ensures you can take many ways to reach your destination – and always have several charging options within reach.
Please note that plug-in hybrids usually don’t support CCS as the smaller battery can’t take as much power.
Charging your MINI in public couldn’t be easier. Whether you’re connecting through AC or DC charging, find everything you need to know by watching our useful home charging video below.
MINI CHARGING.
MINI Charging gives you instant access to one of the largest public charging networks and will allow you to seamlessly connect to over 11,000 electric vehicle charging stations in the UK. It’ll also give you access to stations in all other MINI Charging markets within Europe. Currently in the UK the MINI Electric network is connected to charging points from key operators such as our partner Pod Point, ChargepointNetwork UK and others, as well as high-power charging stations available via IONITY.
In your MINI Electric, you’re never far away from a public charging point. And there’s more than one way to find them.
MINI NAVIGATION.
The MINI Electric on-board sat-nav makes it easy to find nearby charging locations using voice control or touch screen. With live traffic updates, MINI Navigation always finds the fastest way.
MINI CONNECTED.
Take control with the MINI App. Plan routes in advance based on your battery usage. Keep track of your available charge. And find charging points fast for longer journeys or top-ups.
ZAP-MAP.
Download this handy ev charging app. Zap-Map helps you find more than 15,000 public charging points across the UK. Plan routes and find charging points, tailored around your battery usage.
faq'S:
Upon account creation you are presented with a single basic tariff, named Flex tariff.
The Flex tariff provides access to all included network operators without any monthly membership/subscription fees. This base tariff is most suitable for occasional users as the customer only pays for the charging sessions they complete. The price for the charging session is determined by the individual charging point operator and therefore varies dependent on the charging point/network used. The current pricing for each charging point is shown directly in the MINI Charging app or website and it is recommended that the customer always check the prices in operation prior to commencing the charging session. Typical prices range from £0.18-£0.42 per kWh for AC/DC charge points.
For more frequent public charging users, you can choose to add optional packages. Whereby for a monthly subscription fee, each package provides more attractive/preferential pricing for charging sessions conducted on those networks.
bppulse package
The bppulse package is suitable for frequent users of the bppulse network.
For a monthly subscription fee of £7.85 you can access preferential pricing per/kWh when charging at the included bppulse charging points. There are currently >5,000 MINI compatible bppulse charging points available in the UK
NEW VEHICLE OFFER
New vehicle customers who have purchased a new fully electric or plug-in hybrid MINI vehicle through Bowker MINI and whose vehicle handover took/takes place on or after 01 April 2021 are eligible to receive the “bppulse” package for 12 months without subscription fee if they have registered for the Flex tariff.**
**The offer is valid once for a specific vehicle from 1stApril 2021 and cannot be transferred to other vehicles or owners. After the subscription fee exemption expires, the regular Flex Tariff conditions will be applied. This promotional offer applies to the package subscription fee only, usage costs remain the responsibility of the customer. This promotional offer does not apply to used vehicles.
The MINI Navigation system shows all charging points within the MINI Charging network.
The MINI Charging App is available for both Apple iOS and Android.
The My MINI App.
To start and end a charging session at a MINI Charging partner charging point, either the RFID card or mobile app may be used, depending on the capability of the charge point.
Yes of course. Simply use the steadily expanding public network of MINI Charging or other charging stations as available, such as from your employer. The MINI App* or the navigation system in your vehicle shows you public charge points in the vicinity.
Attractive public charging tariffs and personalised offers are also available exclusively to MINI customers.
The time taken to charge electric cars (depending on the cable or charging station) takes longer with alternating current (AC), while direct current (DC) is significantly faster. The new MINI Electric, for example, is charged from 0-80% after approx. 35 minutes when charged with 50 kW at a Rapid charging (DC) station. These are commonly found at motorway service stations. Alternatively, using a BP Pulse wallbox, the charging time is between 3 – 5 hours.
Discover the MINI electric & PHEV RANGE.
Discover the MINI Range at your local Bowker Centre and experience the fun for yourself with a test drive*. Fill out the form on this page or call your local Bowker MINI Centre: Bowker Preston 01772 761 234 | Bowker Blackburn 01254 274 333
* Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.
The MINI Hatch has been awarded ‘Most Fun Car to Drive’ at the 2021 Auto Trader New Car Awards.
Erin Baker, Editorial Director of Auto Trader, said: “With their short wheelbase and nippy, cheeky character, it’s a deserved win. Owners commented on the “go-kart feel and acceleration” and the fact that MINIs “don’t take themselves too seriously”.
The MINI Hatch, which took the same award in 2019, was decided the ‘Most Fun Car to Drive’ by 148,000 UK car owners who took part in a comprehensive survey to understand the honest opinions of those who have bought, driven and lived with their new vehicles. They rated their cars across different criteria including reliability, performance, appearance and running costs, as well as detailing their overall satisfaction with the car and if they would recommend it to others.
David George, Director, MINI UK said “Being fun to drive and putting a smile on the driver’s face is one of the most important parts of MINI’s DNA, so to officially win Auto Trader’s ‘Most Fun Car to Drive’ is a brilliant and very fitting award for the MINI Hatch.”
Discover the MINI Hatch Range at your local Bowker Centre and experience the fun for yourself with a test drive. Select your preferred Centre below to book.