Extraordinary Ellie driven to be the best

Double Paralympic gold medallist, Ellie Simmonds MBE, has added to her preparations for London 2012 by learning to drive in her specially adapted Mini One Hatch which she received as part of Mini’s commitment to be the biggest fan of Paralympics GB and Team GB.


The 17-year old, who is originally from Walsall, spends weekdays training in Swansea and a considerable amount of time travelling between the two. She’s looking forward to gaining the greater independence it will offer:

“I’m really enjoying being out on the road and my Mini is perfect – I can’t wait to pass my test! It will be really great to be able to drive myself around and the support is really helping me to do that.”

To allow Ellie to make the most of her new car, the Mini’s interior has been redesigned to feature a false floor in the driver’s foot well and pedal extensions.

Ellie’s car is just one of a number that BMW will be adapting as part of its role as the Official Automotive Partner of London 2012. Various cars will be adapted to the requirements of disabled volunteers with modifications including push-pull hand controls for brake and accelerator, left-foot throttles and steering balls all in the process of being installed.

BMW was chosen by the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG) as the Official Automotive Partner to London 2012. As part of the partnership, BMW will supply a range of Efficient Dynamic diesel cars, hybrids and electric vehicles, achieving average CO2 emissions below the LOCOG target of 120 g/km, as well as bicycles and motorcycles.

Posted in: BMW,Mini,Out of Wheels