Mini has officially unveiled the new Cooper Electric, marking a significant shift as it launches in EV-only form. Built on a bespoke front-wheel-drive platform co-developed with Great Wall Motor, the new EV spearheads the next chapter for the upmarket supermini. Petrol-powered versions are due to follow later, based upon a revision to the existing F56 platform.

Alongside the Cooper Electric, Mini also pulled the wraps off the next-generation Countryman crossover. It’ll be available with both petrol and electric powertrains from launch, and unlike previous models, it will be produced at BMW’s Leipzig facility, marking the first time a Mini has been built in Germany.

Powertrains and Charging

At launch, the electric Mini will come in two variants: the Cooper E and the more powerful Cooper SE. The Cooper E features a 40.7kWh battery paired with a 135kW (184bhp) motor, generating 290Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0–62mph in 7.3 seconds and has a WLTP-rated range of up to 190 miles.

The SE ups the ante with a 54.2kWh battery and a 160kW (218bhp) motor, delivering 330Nm of torque. 0–62mph drops to 6.7 seconds, roughly matching the outgoing petrol Cooper S. Range is a claimed 250 miles. A high-performance JCW version is in the pipeline, rumoured to develop 250bhp.

Both models support 11kW AC charging and offer DC fast charging: 75kW for the Cooper E and up to 95kW for the SE. According to Mini, charging from 10 to 80 per cent should take under 30 minutes. The navigation system can also pre-condition the battery en route to a charger, helping to optimise performance and reduce charging times.

Petrol Models Still in the Mix

While BMW hasn’t confirmed a release date for petrol-powered versions, they are expected to use updated versions of the brand’s 1.5-litre three-cylinder and 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines. Output figures are likely to align with those in the new Countryman - around 170bhp and 218bhp, respectively.

The Cooper Hatch will remain front-wheel drive, meaning the upcoming ICE JCW variant is unlikely to match the 300bhp offered by the all-wheel-drive Countryman JCW.

Chassis, Handling and Ride Updates

To accommodate the larger battery packs, the new Mini has once again grown, riding on a wider track and longer wheelbase than before. The battery sits underfloor, helping with weight distribution but also lowering the car’s centre of gravity, preserving Mini’s trademark handling feel. A dedicated “Go-Kart” mode allows drivers to tweak steering response and traction control to their preferences.

Hardware changes under the skin include a front strut brace, updated damping, and preloaded stabiliser mounts - all aimed at improving ride quality and steering accuracy.

Design and Interior

Visually, the new Mini retains its recognisable shape - short overhangs, wide stance, and wheels pushed to the corners - but introduces a new, cleaner design philosophy dubbed “Charismatic Simplicity.” All chrome accents have been jettisoned, and the arch cladding has been removed, while the door handles now sit flush with the bodywork to improve aerodynamics.

Inside, the cabin takes a more minimalist approach. The centrepiece is a 24cm circular OLED touchscreen which replaces the traditional instrument cluster. Sustainability has been a key driving force - the dashboard features a knitted recycled textile made from polyester, produced using a technical knitting process.

This fabric varies depending on trim level, with unique patterns and colour combinations. Sport and Exclusive trims, for example, feature houndstooth-inspired designs.

Tech and Connectivity

Mini Operating System 9 powers the onboard tech, built on Android Open Source Project. It’s calibrated for both voice and touch input, splitting the central display into two halves: the upper half is dedicated to driving data, while the lower portion handles navigation, climate controls, and entertainment.

Mini states users can navigate through menus using swipe gestures, tap widgets to expand them, and customise a “tool belt” menu for quick access - either via touch or a shortcut on the steering wheel.

Connectivity options include 5G support, video streaming, in-car gaming, and app integration through Mini Connected services. There are seven display modes - Core, Green, Go-Kart, Personal, Vibrant, Timeless, and Balance - all of which tailor the cabin lighting and screen visuals to match the selected theme.

Driver assistance features include Parking Assistant Plus, which uses 12 ultrasonic sensors and four cameras. Explore Mode enables remote parking via smartphone, while Mini Digital Key Plus allows keyless entry and car sharing through mobile devices.

Pricing

The new Mini Cooper Electric will make its British debut at this year’s Goodwood Revival. First UK deliveries of the Cooper Electric are expected in spring 2024, with prices starting from £30,120. 

While production of the Cooper Electric is moving from Mini’s Oxford plant to China, internal combustion engine (ICE) models will continue to be assembled in the UK. The manufacturer states no decision has yet been made whether Oxford will be retooled for EV production.