Electric Mini Cooper | Make way for a new generation

Due to its starting price set at nearly $51,000 and its estimated range which borders on the ridiculous at 183 km, the current Mini Cooper SE electric is far from being a competitive electric proposition, despite its dynamism. The English brand, owned by BMW, is now seeking to rectify the situation with the fifth generation of the iconic model.

A sign that times are changing, this three-door Mini, fifth of the name, is being introduced first by electric power, a strategy that is the opposite of what the brand had accustomed us to. Regardless, it remains influenced by the first in the line, launched in 1959 and whose minimalist appearance designed by Alec Issigonis is matched only by its affordability which has attracted millions of households.

Certainly, a lot of water has passed under the bridge since then, but the subcompact remains small and retains its circular headlights and its wheels pushed to the four corners for balance in handling and design. A snub to the sea of ​​SUVs that engulfs our roads. The interior retains the same theme with the integration of the instrumentation as well as the multimedia system in a single central circular screen. The textile-draped dashboard adds a touch of hospitality.

Much more autonomy

According to European technical data, two electric liveries should ensure to expand the offer of this new Mini without thermal engine with front motors. The first, named Cooper E, will have 184 hp and a 40.7 kWh battery. The second, named Cooper SE, increases the total to 218 hp and will be supported by a 54.2 kWh battery. The estimated range – figures obtained according to the European WLTP protocol – will be 305 km and 402 km respectively. Certainly, these data will be revised downwards when the North American cycle is applied.

Mini has not yet detailed the changes made to the chassis of this electric Cooper or the timetable for marketing it in Canada. To be continued, therefore.

A new Countryman in parallel

Mini also took the opportunity to unveil at the same time the latest vintage of its Countryman crossover, first in electric form. Following in the footsteps of the electric Mini Cooper, this model intended for wider distribution was also presented in two electric forms.

More angular and slightly more imposing, it will be prepared in a 204 hp front-wheel drive version and in a 313 hp all-wheel drive livery. The targeted range is 462 km or 433 km for these two variants. Mini has not detailed the size of the batteries, for the moment.