Reviving the Fun: Electric Minis Embrace Playfulness

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【Summary】BMW has unveiled the fifth generation of the Mini Cooper, which now comes in all-electric versions. The new models feature a more minimalist design language, aiming to bring back the simplicity of the original Mini. The interior is dominated by a 24cm circular touch-screen information display and includes the Mini Operating System 9 with an intelligent personal assistant. The Countryman model will have a range of around 287 miles, while the smaller Cooper will have a range of 190-250 miles.

FutureCar Staff Sep 02, 2023 4:14 PM PT

Reviving the Fun: Electric Minis Embrace Playfulness

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The BMW-era Mini is known for many things, but being small is not one of them. Over the years, cars have been getting larger due to safety, security, self-consciousness, and battery sizes. However, the original 'new' Mini from 2000 fit nicely into the compact city car class at the time.

The fifth generation of the original Mini is now revealed, along with the third generation of the larger Mini Countryman, ahead of the 2023 IAA International Motor Show in Munich. Both cars are available in all-electric versions, marking the first time for the Countryman. The design language of both models is more pared-back and straightforward.

This new design, called 'Charismatic Simplicity' by Mini, aims to reset the creeping distortion of the original Mini simplicity that occurred over three generations. It smooths off surfaces and integrates elements like the rear lights into the four-square, planted stance of the car.

The influence of Paul Smith's minimalist Mini Electric can be seen in the materials and surfaces of these new models. There is less fuss and more emphasis on an overall minimal look.

The new Cooper, shown here in two-door high-spec SE trim, is particularly effective in embodying this design philosophy. Both models feature a 24cm circular touch-screen information display that dominates the interior, a modern evolution of the original Issigonis Mini's central speedometer.

Other notable elements include the abstracted houndstooth dash pattern and the new Mini Operating System 9, which includes an 'intelligent personal assistant' and the ability to select seven different driving modes.

The Countryman has grown even larger and shares the tech upgrades of its smaller sibling. It also features 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, which are substantial improvements over the current Mini Electric's 145-mile range.

Both the new Mini Cooper and Mini Countryman will be available on the market next year, and we look forward to exploring what they have to offer.

MINI Cooper Electric, starting from £30,000, available in spring 2024

MINI Countryman, starting from £28,500, available in February 2024

Visit Mini.co.uk for more information.