Although it’s been a long-time feature on European models, auto start/stop systems for both manual and automatic transmissions might finally be coming to US MINI vehicles. This system actually first appeared overseas back in 2007. It’s been a long time coming, but the timing for a US debut seems likely.
In Winter Park, MINI Cooper used vehicles are already quite efficient. However, auto start/stop systems could make these vehicles even more so. Here’s how it works. On automatic cars, the system turns the engine off when the driver comes to a complete stop. When the driver lifts their foot off the break, the engine starts seamlessly again.
Clearly, there are some efficiency benefits to this system. In fact, it could conserve quite a bit of fuel, which will help drivers’ wallets big time. Especially if you’re in a steady stream of start/stop traffic, this system would ensure your engine isn’t constantly running.
This feature comes at a cost, but MINI isn’t passing it along to consumers. The automaker is dedicated to making more and more efficient vehicles, and the auto start/stop system is a key component of that.
At Fields Orlando MINI, we can’t wait to see this long-awaited feature make its way to vehicles on the showroom floor. We’ll have to stay tuned for an official announcement. In the meantime, come and check out all the highly efficient vehicles already on sale and see which one meets your needs.
