MINI is ready to electrify its fans with its new family of models that are all-electric, digital, and distinguishing. The British brand, owned by BMW Group, is presenting two members of the new MINI family at the IAA (International Motor Show) in Munich this week: the all-electric MINI Cooper 3-door and the all-electric MINI Countryman.
The new MINI models are part of the brand's strategy to become an all-electric brand by 2030, following the high demand for its locally emission-free vehicles. According to Stefanie Wurst, head of the MINI brand, the new generation of MINI models will appeal to urban target groups all around the world with their electrified go-kart feeling, immersive user experience, and responsible attitude.
The original reinvented: the all-electric MINI Cooper 3-door
The MINI Cooper 3-door is the core of the brand and embodies its tradition with its hallmark MINI design. The fifth model generation of the MINI Cooper 3-door is fully electric and consistently geared towards urban driving fun. It features a powerful electric motor that delivers 160 kW/218 hp and a range of 402 kilometers (250 miles) determined in the WLTP test cycle. Using a fast-charging station, the battery can be charged up to 80% in 35 minutes.
The new all-electric MINI Cooper 3-door also boasts a modern and purist design that focuses on the essentials. The classic round headlights and the octagonal grille form the characteristic face of the MINI Cooper. The grille is closed to improve aerodynamics and has a yellow accent strip to indicate its electric nature. The side scuttles also have yellow elements and display the model name "Cooper Electric." The rear lights have a Union Jack design that reflects the brand's British heritage.
The interior of the new all-electric MINI Cooper 3-door is spacious and stylish, with high-quality materials and recycled textiles. All variations of the model feature seats in Vescin artificial leather, which is soft and durable. The dashboard has a minimalist look with a 10-inch touchscreen display that integrates the navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The display also shows the battery status, charging options, and energy consumption. The steering wheel has multifunction buttons and a yellow start/stop button.
The new all-electric MINI Cooper 3-door offers an immersive user experience with a state-of-the-art technology package that includes a new operating system, over-the-air software upgrades, and a full-fledged voice assistant. The operating system allows for personalization and customization of the display, sound, and ambient lighting. The over-the-air software upgrades ensure that the vehicle is always up to date with the latest features and functions. The voice assistant can be activated by saying "Hey, MINI" and can perform various tasks such as adjusting the temperature, playing music, or finding a parking spot.
Made in Germany: the all-electric MINI Countryman
The new MINI Countryman is the first MINI "Made in Germany." It will be built at the BMW Group Plant in Leipzig, which is one of the most modern and sustainable automotive factories in the world. The plant in Leipzig is also expanding its e-component production capacity by eight production lines by 2024 and investing more than $940 million.
The new all-electric MINI Countryman is larger than its predecessor and offers more space, comfort, and safety for its passengers. It also has a more rugged appearance with wider wheel arches and roof rails. The model is suitable for setting out on adventures beyond the city limits thanks to its all-wheel-drive system that provides optimal traction and stability on different terrains.
The new all-electric MINI Countryman has a flat, high-voltage battery that saves space and allows for more room in the cabin. The battery provides enough energy for a range of 420 kilometers (261 miles), determined in the WLTP test cycle. The battery can be charged up to 80% in 40 minutes using a fast-charging station.
The new all-electric MINI Countryman also has a distinctive digital design combining functionality and aesthetics. The front end has a hexagonal grille that is partly closed to improve aerodynamics and has a chrome frame that contrasts with the body color. The headlights have LED technology and adaptive functions that adjust to different driving situations. The rear end has horizontal LED lights that emphasize the width of the vehicle.
The interior of the new all-electric MINI Countryman is spacious and comfortable, with high-quality materials and recycled textiles. The model has five seats that can be adjusted and folded to create more cargo space. The dashboard has a 12-inch touchscreen display that integrates the navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The display also shows the battery status, charging options, and energy consumption. The steering wheel has multifunction buttons and a chrome start/stop button.
The new all-electric MINI Countryman also offers an immersive user experience with a state-of-the-art technology package that includes a new operating system, over-the-air software upgrades, and a full-fledged voice assistant. The operating system allows for personalization and customization of the display, sound, and ambient lighting. The over-the-air software upgrades ensure that the vehicle is always up to date with the latest features and functions. The voice assistant can be activated by saying "Hey, MINI" and can perform various tasks such as adjusting the temperature, playing music, or finding a parking spot.
MINI goes all-in on electric with its new family of models
The new MINI family is fully electric, digital, and distinguishing. It offers hallmark MINI driving fun with an all-electric drivetrain and an immersive digital user experience. It also reflects the brand's tradition, heritage, and environmental responsibility. The new MINI models are expected to hit the market in 2024 and will compete with other electric vehicles in their respective segments.
