Mini to Launch 2 All-New Electric Models


Mini announced that the next generation of the MINI EV model range will launch with 2 MINI Cooper Electrics.

BMW sees Mini as its entry level brand that gives a younger demographic the chance to get into a proper prestige German car for less money. Although Mini cashes in on its German owners, it also trades heavily on its Brutishness, and is often adorned with Union Jacks and quaint English monikers.

The unbearably cute MINI is meant to be a fun car that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and the 3-door is aimed at people wanting fun, but have an eye for the environment and economy. To that end, the Zero Emissions Mini has two power levels that don’t sacrifice the go-cart-esque ability.

The all-electric MINI Cooper SE was launched in 2020, and saw a 25.5% sales increase in 2022. It is now the most popular MINI model, with over 43,000 MINI EVs sold worldwide last year. BMW claims that 1 in 5 MINIs on the road now are electric. That might be true elsewhere, but Mini electric remains a very rare sight on Australian roads.

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ABOVE: All New Mini Electric Cooper SE

Electrified Mini

Like all EVs, the electric MINI has full torque from a standing start, and with no transmission, there are no pesky gear shifts to interrupt the smooth acceleration. The 2 models start with the 135kW MINI Cooper E, top out with the MINI Cooper SE, with a beefier 160kW.

The lithium-ion battery is under the floor which affords a low centre of gravity for better road holding and weight distribution.

The MINI brand is able to use the knowledge of the BMW Group, a brand known for handling and performance. Most people are familiar with the original Mini, but they may not be aware of BMW’s ownership from the 2001 MINI 3-door onwards.

The important part of any EV is how much battery power can be stored. The current model’s city-only range has been widely criticised, and although the new cars have smallish battery packs, the range is a little more generous.

MINI Cooper E’s bijou 40.7 kWh battery, and Cooper SE’s larger 54.2 kWh unit, are good for between 300 and 400 kilometres, considerably more than the current models.

As with the original MINI, space is well considered and cleverly designed. The interior is configurable for 4 adults and their luggage. Let’s not forget Mini 3-door is still a city car, so if more luggage space is needed, the back seaters will have to stay at home.

Both Mini 3-door and MINI Countryman will to be produced at the BMW Group Plant Leipzig from November 2023. MINI Aceman will complete join the range from 2024 onwards.

Written by Alan Zurvas

Alan Zurvas is the founder and editor of Gay Car Boys, Australia's leading LGBTQI+ automotive publication. Before launching GCB in 2008, Alan's automotive writing was published in SameSame.com.au and the Star Observer. With over 16 years of hands-on car reviewing experience, Alan brings an honest, irreverent voice to every review — championing value and innovation over brand loyalty.


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