A legend in the 1960’s and beyond, especially in the exciting Monte Carlo Rally, today’s Mini is a grown-up version of that diminutive early model and this new, three-door and rather quick Mini Cooper (still carrying the name of that famous engineer, you will note) is the very latest incarnation. This model is in addition to and enhances the existing range of electric Mini models and should be available to order early in 2024.
The Power
With 218 electrically generated horse-powers (160 kW) and 330 Newton metres of maximum torque, the brilliant and emission-free Mini Cooper Electric offers keen drivers the ability to sprint from 0 to 62mph in 6.7 seconds. The high-voltage battery installed in the car offers range of up to 250 miles. With many details to admire, the Sport trim emphasises the brand's motor sport genes.
The Looks
This all-electric not-so-mini Cooper in Sport trim combines a passion for iconic design, legendary performance and sustainable mobility, say the manufacturers. It is, they tell us, the epitome of efficiency and driving pleasure.
Individual front and rear design feature a motor-sport oriented look
incorporating the new John Cooper Works (JCW) logo which is characterised by clear outlines that stand out particularly well with its traditional red, white and black colour scheme and the symbolised chequered flag on the octagonal front grille. The powerful appearance of this electric vehicle (EV) is achieved, among other things, by 18 inch wheels in ‘Lap Spoke’ 2-tone design with ten spokes each and JCW brake callipers in eye-catching red. Bonnet stripes on the body further emphasise this car’s sporty character.
Sport Trim
As standard, the Mini Cooper EV includes striking diffusers at the front and rear. The radiator grille surround and logo are finished in high-gloss black. Visual highlights include the contrasting roof and the mirror caps in Chilli Red. The LED headlights have individual light signatures. With the selected JCW signature, the front lights only show two horizontal stripes as daytime running lights and emphasise the minimalist design of this premium car. The graphics of the matrix rear lights underline the width of the rear of the vehicle.
Sporting Interior
The JCW seats combine synthetic leather with red stitching and multi-coloured knitted material in the shoulder section. The black and red colour concept is continued on the material covering the interior of the door and the dashboard – the passenger side of which is adorned with the JCW-specific pattern in the style of a chequered flag.
The central, high-resolution and thankfully still round OLED display, with a diameter of 240mm, bundles vehicle-related data and provides information on navigation, media, telephone and climate settings. Within the ‘Mini Experience’ Modes, the technology offers new possibilities for individualisation. These include the John Cooper Works-inspired ‘GO-KART’ Mode, which colours the display and interior lighting anthracite red! In addition to the special GO-KART sound, the optimised throttle response of the accelerator pedal in this mode enhances the sporty driving experience, even if this car isn’t powered by internal combustion.
Efficient Charging
With 12 ultrasonic sensors and four surround cameras, the ‘Parking Assistant Plus’ simplifies parking and identifies free parking spaces. The advanced ‘EXPLORE’ Mode offers a unique solution for this vehicle segment: it allows parking via smartphone, without the driver having to sit in the vehicle. A significant plus in convenience when parking space is tight at the side.
Fast charging with direct current is possible with up to 95 kW. This means that the battery can be charged from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in just under 30 minutes at a quick-charging station. The high-voltage battery is charged with 11 kW using alternating current (AC). When charging is activated, the high-voltage battery of the Mini Cooper Electric is prepared to the ideal temperature for efficient charging depending on the weather conditions. The advantage: a significantly shorter charging time, especially at low outside temperatures.
The Drive
This new model should prove to have a performance advantage over existing Mini electric versions. Thanks to the single ‘gear’ instant response of electric vehicles, the Mini drive offers the typical darty and agile response expected from this modern equivalent of the Monte Carlo legend. Expect the new JCW model to be the quickest yet.
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