Reviving the Fun: Electric Minis Rekindle the Playful Essence

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【Summary】The new generation of electric Minis, including the Cooper and Countryman models, feature a more minimalist design that brings back the original's simplicity. Both models have a sleek and pared-back exterior, with integrated rear lights and a 24cm circular touch-screen information display dominating the interior. The Cooper offers a range of 190-250 miles, while the larger Countryman has a range of around 287 miles. The electric Minis will be available next year.

FutureCar Staff Sep 03, 2023 4:15 PM PT

Reviving the Fun: Electric Minis Rekindle the Playful Essence

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 nicely into the compact city car class. Now, the fifth generation of the Mini is being revealed 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. The design language of these new models is more pared-back and straightforward, a concept Mini refers to as 'Charismatic Simplicity'.

The influence of Paul Smith's minimalist Mini Electric can be seen in the design of these new models. The materials and surfaces are rendered with less fuss, creating an overall minimal look. The new Mini Cooper SE EV, shown in high-spec SE trim, features a 24cm circular touch-screen information display dominating the interior, reminiscent of the original Issigonis Mini's central speedometer. The new Mini Operating System 9, with its 'intelligent personal assistant' and seven different driving modes, adds to the bold elements of the interior.

The Mini Countryman has also grown larger and now shares the tech upgrades of its smaller sibling. It features integrated semi-automated Level 2 driving and sophisticated self-parking capabilities. While both models will be available with traditional combustion engines, Mini is emphasizing 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 significant improvements over the current Mini Electric's range of 145 miles.

Both the new Mini Cooper and Mini Countryman will be available on the market next year. It will be interesting to see how these new models perform in real-life situations.

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.