Just had a similar problem with my 2009 R50, which turned out to be where the positive cable from the rear battery connected to the switch under the passenger seat no longer properly connecting to the terminal in the plug. Okay cold, but as it didn't take too long till the current in the lead caused it to heat and then the connection became worse and it became an intermittent connection, and quite hot. the lack of connection when hot caused the switch to recognise a difference in voltage, so the motor would crank once or twice then stop, and subsequent efforts did nothing. Trying to bring in the second battery by left-turning the key did nothing, a jump start under the bonnet would get it underway again.
Can't claim to have found it myself, a good auto-elec chased it down when I pointed him at the switch.
Good luck.
Can't claim to have found it myself, a good auto-elec chased it down when I pointed him at the switch.
Good luck.