If you want a fun, stylish, and affordable electric car, check out the Mini Cooper Electric. This is the new generation of the legendary hatchback that will hit the market in early 2024. The Mini Cooper Electric is not just an electrified version of the current Mini Hatch but a completely new model that will be made in China on a new platform designed by Spotlight Automotive, a partnership between BMW and Great Wall. A petrol-powered version, which will look more like the current car, will be produced in Oxford, using a different platform but sharing the same design cues. In this article, we'll show you how the Mini Cooper Electric brings "the iconic hatchback to its roots" with a minimalist and functional design, a powerful and agile performance, and a user-friendly and simple interior. We'll also tell you how it compares to its main rival, the Fiat 500 Electric, and why you should consider buying one.
What Makes the Mini Cooper Electric Different from the Current Mini Hatch?
The new Mini Cooper Electric still looks like a Mini, and it's still about 3800mm long, but it also shows some significant changes that make it stand out from the current Mini Hatch. The car has a wider track, shorter overhangs, a longer wheelbase, and larger wheels, making it look more dynamic and sporty. The design is also cleaner and more minimalist than before, with less plastic and chrome elements and more focus on function and sustainability. The new Mini Cooper Electric doesn't have the bulky black plastic wheel arches, the split bonnet, the contrasting trim details and the chrome headlight rings of the current Mini Electric. Instead, it has a fresh look that reflects its modern and contemporary character.
How Does the Mini Cooper Electric Perform on the Road?
The Mini Cooper Electric is powered by an electric motor that delivers 181bhp and 199 lb-ft of torque and draws energy from a 28.9-kWh battery. The car can accelerate from 0-62mph in about 7.0sec, which makes it almost as fast as today's petrol-powered Cooper S hot hatch and, more importantly, a close rival to the new Fiat 500 Electric. The car also retains the Mini's trademark go-kart handling, making it fun to drive on twisty roads. The only drawback of the Mini Cooper Electric is its relatively short driving range, which is estimated at around 110 miles per charge. This is far less than what other low-cost EVs can offer and may limit the appeal of the car for some buyers. However, for those who are looking for a fun and affordable EV for the city, the Mini Cooper Electric may be a great choice.
