The transformation of the iconic British brand Mini into an electric vehicle (EV)-only marque is in full swing, and it’s picking up speed with the introduction of the new Mini Cooper electric hatchback and the new Mini Countryman.
In a departure from the past, where the Mini Electric was essentially a conversion of an internal combustion engine (ICE) model into an electric one, the new three-door electric hatchback stands on its own bespoke EV platform. This platform is the result of a collaboration between Mini’s parent company, BMW, and Great Wall Motor, through their China-based joint venture, Spotlight Automotive.
Key Features of the New Mini Cooper Electric
Impressive Range
The new Cooper electric boasts a range of up to 402 kilometers, a significant improvement from its predecessor.
Sleek Design
Mini’s new Characteristic Simplicity design language takes center stage in the Cooper electric. The circular headlights, sans bezels, and the expanded octagonal front grille give it a fresh look. The exterior exudes simplicity, with no chrome, flush door handles, and even a minimalist approach to the front fender air vents.
At the rear, the tail-lights have been completely reimagined with a distinctive triangular shape that allows for personalization. The roof appears to float, thanks to the blacked-out pillars. Despite a larger wheelbase to accommodate the battery, the overall length has actually decreased.





Mini Minimalist Interior
The interior design takes inspiration from the original BMC Mini of 1959, featuring a round instrument cluster above a row of toggles. A 9.4-inch OLED infotainment touchscreen, the first circular one in a production car, takes center stage on the curved dashboard. Mini’s latest Android-based operating system, developed in collaboration with Samsung, powers the infotainment system. The instrument cluster is replaced by a reflective panel for the head-up display, contributing to the minimalist aesthetic.
Mini Introduces Two Variants
Moreover, The Cooper electric comes in two variants. The base Cooper E features a 184hp, 290Nm front-mounted motor and a 40.7kWh battery. Offering a claimed range of 305 kilometers. The higher-spec Cooper SE delivers 218hp and 330Nm, with a 54.2kWh battery providing an impressive claimed range of 402 kilometers. Both variants can be fast-charged at up to 95kW, with 10 to 80 percent charge achieved in less than 30 minutes.
Unique Mini Experience Modes
Both variants offer various Mini Experience modes, each with its own displays and powertrain characteristics, including a new Go-Kart Mode. These modes, coupled with new digital driving sounds, enhance the driving experience.
Coming to India
For Indian enthusiasts of electric mobility, there’s good news. Mini plans to launch the new Cooper electric in India between January and March 2024. It will coexist with a petrol-engined Cooper hatchback, which will be visually identical but based on the existing ICE Mini platform and produced in Oxford.
The electrification of Mini represents a significant shift towards sustainable mobility. And the new Cooper electric hatchback is set to carry on Mini’s legacy of combining style, innovation, and performance with an eco-conscious focus.