MINI Electric Vehicle Launches in America at Climate Week

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【Summary】The MINI Countryman EV made its debut in the U.S. during Climate Week. MINI is focusing on the U.S. market and returning to its roots by incorporating the same design principles and configuration used in the original MINI. The company had to overcome challenges such as the absence of tax credits and tariffs for EVs from China and the declining demand for small cars in the U.S. MINI plans to produce and sell the MINI Countryman in North America to cater to American preferences.

FutureCar Staff Sep 19, 2023 4:15 PM PT

MINI Electric Vehicle Launches in America at Climate Week

BMW is placing a strong emphasis on the U.S. market as it introduces the new generation of MINIs. The company has demonstrated its ability to understand the essence of the MINI brand. The MINI design was born out of necessity during the fuel shortages caused by the Suez Canal crisis in the late 1950s. British manufacturers, including Morris, the original MINI manufacturer, ingeniously turned the engine sideways to drive the front wheels, saving space and allowing for the positioning of the wheels at the corners of the car.

In addition to this innovative design decision, the MINI also integrated the transmission within the engine's bottom sump, effectively merging the two components into a single unit. This configuration is now commonly used in electric vehicles (EVs). However, to succeed in the U.S. market, MINI had to make some changes. One challenge was the absence of tax credits and additional tariffs for EVs originating from China. MINI has reconsidered plans to build most of its MINI EVs in China and will continue to manufacture them in the UK to avoid tariffs and potentially receive tax credits.

Another challenge is the preference for larger vehicles in the U.S. To address this, MINI will also produce and sell the MINI Countryman, a small crossover version of the vehicle, in North America. The company believes that offering a manual transmission in limited numbers could also appeal to certain buyers. Recently, MINI unveiled the all-new MINI Countryman Electric during Climate Week NYC, marking its debut in North America. This larger electric model represents MINI's commitment to sustainable design and innovation.

The all-new MINI Countryman Electric is expected to be available for U.S. consumers in the fall of 2024. MINI sees this model as a significant step towards achieving its goal of becoming a more sustainable and fully electrified brand by 2030. The unveiling took place at an event hosted by URBAN-X, MINI's startup accelerator focused on climate tech innovations. The event showcased MINI's dedication to sustainability and its partnership with URBAN-X in promoting innovative solutions for cities.

The new Countryman offers a redesigned digital ecosystem, enhanced utility, and electric power while maintaining MINI's iconic design. The event also featured the BMW CE-04 battery-electric scooter and the BMW iX5 Hydrogen prototype, highlighting BMW's commitment to innovation. The URBAN-X panel discussion explored the future of mobility and BMW Group's sustainability strategy. The company aims to achieve its decarbonization targets by 2050.

By introducing the all-new MINI Countryman Electric and emphasizing sustainability, MINI is not only building a larger electric MINI but also striving to protect the environment.