Charismatic Simplicity
The outgoing electric Mini has too limited a driving range for some due to its 28.9-kWh battery. The new generation addresses that problem by offering two battery sizes and boosting its stamina to more than 400 kilometres.
For this fifth-generation Mini hatchback, the designers wanted to stay as close as possible to the 1959 original. They created a new design language to this end, called "Charismatic Simplicity", with as few frills and superfluous lines as possible, combining short overhangs with a small bonnet and large wheels. Even a non-specialist will immediately recognise the car as a Mini, even though it is completely new.
The round headlights were carried over as a design theme, but at the rear, the large lights of the previous generation have been replaced by new ones offering three different light signatures, including a new interpretation of the British Union Jack.
Simplicity in interiors
Inside, the central circular instrument cluster once again adorns the cabin, which on this generation gets a different layout depending on the "Experience Mode" selected. As on the original Mini, there is no driver display behind the steering wheel and the number of physical buttons is strictly limited to the so-called "toggle bar" to keep everything as tidy and uncluttered as possible. There is, however, a head-up display for the driver.
A nice detail is the light projection on the dashboard that projects a different colour and details on the woven and 92 per cent recycled fabric of the dashboard and doors depending on the mode selected.
Up to 402 kilometres
The new Mini will come with internal combustion engines later, but the initial offer only comprises two electric versions. The first one is called Cooper E and carries a 184-hp and 290-Nm electric motor on the front axle that allows it sprint from 0 to 100 in 7.3 seconds. The battery of the "E" has a capacity of 40.7 kWh, the equivalent of 305 kilometres.
If you need a bit more oomph and/or stamina, you can opt for the Cooper SE. This version boasts a 54.2-kWh battery and hits the 400-km mark (402 kilometres WLTP to be precise). With this driving range, the electric Mini can finally truly compete with the other electric cars in this segment. The SE not only gets a bigger battery but also a more powerful motor. It is rated at 218 hp and 330 Nm and gets you to 100 kph in just 6.7 seconds.
AC charging can be done at 11 kW in both cases. At a DC fast charger, the electric Mini’s are limited to 75 kW and 95 kW respectively.
Cooper E
- Power184 hp
- Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h7.3 seconds
- Range (WLTP)305 km
- Torque290 Nm
Cooper SE
- Power218 hp
- ACCELERATION 0 - 100 KM/H6.7 seconds
- Range (WLTP)402 km
- Torque330 Nm
New Mini Electric
