Reviving the Fun: Electric Minis Capture Original Playfulness

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【Summary】BMW has unveiled the fifth generation of the Mini Cooper and Mini Countryman, both of which are available in all-electric versions. The new models feature a more minimalist design, with smoother surfaces and integrated elements. The interior is dominated by a 24cm circular touch-screen display and includes an intelligent personal assistant. The Countryman has grown larger and offers around 287 miles of range, while the Cooper offers 190 miles in 'E' trim and 250 miles in 'SE' trim.

FutureCar Staff Sep 03, 2023 9:16 AM PT

Reviving the Fun: Electric Minis Capture Original Playfulness

The BMW-era Mini has always been known for its compact size, but over the years, cars have been getting bigger. However, the original 'new' Mini from 2000 fit perfectly into the compact city car class at the time.

Now, the fifth generation of the Mini is being unveiled alongside the third generation of the larger Mini Countryman at the 2023 IAA International Motor Show in Munich. Both cars are available in all-electric versions, marking the first time for the Countryman.

These new models feature a more pared-back and straightforward design language, which Mini refers to as 'Charismatic Simplicity'. This design philosophy aims to reset the distortion that had crept into the original Mini's simplicity over three generations, resulting in smoother surfaces and better integration of elements.

There seems to be an influence from Paul Smith's minimalist Mini Electric in the design of these new models, with a focus on using materials and surfaces to create an overall minimal look.

The new Mini Cooper SE EV, shown in two-door high-spec SE trim, has an interior dominated by a 24cm circular touch-screen information display. The Mini Countryman EV, which has grown larger, shares the same tech upgrades as its smaller counterpart.

Both models feature the new Mini Operating System 9, which includes an 'intelligent personal assistant' and the ability to select seven different driving modes. The Countryman also offers integrated semi-automated Level 2 driving and sophisticated self-parking capabilities.

While both models will be available with traditional combustion engines, Mini is focusing on promoting the capabilities of the electric versions. The Countryman is expected to have a range of around 287 miles, while the smaller Cooper will have a range of 190 miles in 'E' trim and 250 miles in 'SE' trim.

Both the Mini Cooper and the Mini Countryman will be available on the market next year, and it will be interesting to see how they perform in real-world conditions.

MINI Cooper Electric will be priced from £30,000 and will be available in spring 2024. The MINI Countryman will start at £28,500 and will be available in February 2024.

For more information, visit Mini.co.uk.