Reviving the Playful Essence: Electric Minis

author: FutureCar Staff    

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 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 the new Minis embraces a more pared-back and straightforward approach, which Mini refers to as 'Charismatic Simplicity'. This design philosophy aims to reset three generations of creeping distortion and bring back the original Mini's simplicity.

The interior of the new Mini Cooper SE EV features a 24cm circular touch-screen information display, reminiscent of the original Mini's central speedometer. The overall design emphasizes minimalism, with less fuss and a focus on clean lines and materials.

The Mini Countryman has also grown larger, but it shares the same tech upgrades as its smaller sibling. It features integrated semi-automated Level 2 driving and sophisticated self-parking capabilities. Mini is pushing the capabilities of its electric vehicles, with the Countryman offering around 287 miles of range and the smaller Cooper offering 190 miles in 'E' trim and 250 miles in 'SE' trim.

Both the new Mini Cooper and Mini Countryman will be available with traditional combustion engines, but Mini is placing a strong emphasis on the electric versions. The cars are set to hit the market next year, and we look forward to exploring what they have to offer.

MINI Cooper Electric will be available from £30,000 in spring 2024, while the MINI Countryman will be available from £28,500 in February 2024. For more information, visit Mini.co.uk.

FutureCar Staff