Mini Cooper Electric Unveils Refreshed Design and Increased Range
BMW has unveiled the fifth-generation Mini Cooper, which stands out from its traditional combustion counterparts with a distinctive design. The initial release, the Mini Cooper E, features a powerful 135 kW/184 hp electric motor, 290Nm of torque, and can accelerate from zero to 62 miles per hour in just 7.3 seconds. Notably, it offers an extended range of 145 to 190 miles.
This distance jumps to 250 miles in the Mini SE and includes higher outputs such as 330 Nm of maximum torque, 160 kW/218 hp and a jump from zero to 62 mph in 6.7 seconds. The batteries can also charge from 10% to 80% in less than half an hour.
In terms of looks, the fifth-generation Mini had adopted something the company calls “charismatic simplicity” to emphasize the car’s most important modern features. “Inspired by our history, we have developed our own new design language that defines our DNA.” Oliver Heilmer, director of Mini Design, said in a statement. “The idea behind it is a design that gives each new MINI model a strong, individual character and is characterized by a clear, reduced design language that is intuitively focused on the essentials of the brand.”
Externally, this new model features larger wheels, recessed door handles and fender flares. The interior was inspired by the original 1959 Mini, with a “round instrument cluster” front and center, with switches below. The modern upgrade includes a 9.5-inch high-resolution OLED display that showcases Mini Operating System 9 and offers everything from media to apps. The Mini also features the brand’s first “intelligent personal assistant” in the form of an animated Mini or Spike. The blue and white English Bulldog helper was first announced in April and appeared directly on the circular OLED screen. Either way, you can control navigation, entertainment and more with a push-to-talk button or simply saying “Hey Mini”.
Additional features of the fifth-generation Mini include optional Parking Assistant Plus (with 12 sensors and four cameras) and a green mode that can extend battery life. In addition, it has four new equipment options: Essential, Classic, Favored and JCW.
BMW also announced the third generation Mini Countryman. It’s the first time the crossover SUV will be available as an all-electric model that’s a few inches taller and five inches longer than its predecessor. The Mini Countryman E offers a range of 287 miles, an output of 150 kW/204 hp and a torque of 250 Nm. The Mini Countryman SE has slightly more power at 230kW/313hp and 494Nm, but a slightly shorter range of 269 miles.
Other features include a revised lever bar with five switches, improved aerodynamics and wider wheel arches. As of 2021, there have been rumors of an all-electric Countryman, which is in line with BMW’s goals for Minis to be all-electric by 2030.
