Many have been waiting for some time for Mini to launch its first EV, and in 2020 the wait is over with the new Mini Electric.
Retaining all the cool styling of the regular Mini Hatch three-door, this new model brings some flair and fun to the EV segment, which is what the market has been lacking.
This car is also great fun to drive, and while not the most practical of choices, it’s ideal if you’re looking for an urban EV. Here’s what you need to know about it.
What powertrains are available?
Just the one powertrain option is available, with Mini targeting its new Electric as being one of the sportier small EVs available – targeting the same performance as a regular Cooper S hot hatch model.
Its electric motor produces a punchy 181bhp and 270Nm of torque, which allows the model to sprint from 0-60mph in just 7.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 93bhp. Its 32.6kWh battery is smaller than rivals, though the model can still manage a claimed 145 miles on a single charge.
However, the small battery means it takes less time to charge than rivals. Utilising a 50kWh rapid charger, it takes just 36 minutes to top up the batteries to 80 per cent. If you use a 7.4kW wallbox, it can be charged to the same level in three hours 12 minutes, and 12 hours if you use a regular three-pin plug, though Mini doesn’t recommend this.
What trims levels are available?
For the Electric, Mini has really simplified the trim levels available. Whereas on every other Mini, grades include the Classic, Sport and Exclusive, the Electric has more simplistic ‘Levels’ to choose from. Equipment highlights and pricing are as follows. Note that the price includes the government grant.
Level 1 (L1) – from £24,400
Standard equipment is generous and includes LED front and rear lights, the choice of 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels and a 6.5-inch touchscreen with online services, Apple CarPlay and satellite navigation. You also get a digital driver display, cruise control and automatic lights and wipers.
Level 2 (L2) – from £26,400
Upgrade to L2 and it adds keyless entry, heated front seats, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera. You also get more colour and wheel choice, as well as LED interior lighting and a black headlining.
Level 3 (L3) – from £30,400
At the top of the line-up the L3 comes laden with kit. It brings adaptive matrix LED headlights, front parking sensors and a larger touchscreen. Other highlights include self-parking functionality, a head-up display, an excellent Harmon Kardon sound system and a panoramic glass sunroof.
What about personalisation?
Just like any other Mini, the personalisation is quite impressive. But what makes things great on the Mini Electric is that all options are free.
Personalisation choice depends on the trim level you choose, with the L3 being the most generous, with five 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels to choose from, along with six colours – Chilli Red and British Racing Green being particular highlights.
You can also choose to make your model stand out more with Yellow accents, or have them painted grey if you would rather have a more reserved look. You can also choose to have the mirror caps and roof painted in either white or black.
Enquire on a new Mini