Earlier this 2020, Mini Cooper released the MINI Electric, the first-ever electric car by the British automotive marque. After months of its release, the MINI Electric is charging in full speed into the local scene with its recent arrival on our shores. So what’s the catch? Aside from the new MINI Electric’s battery, and its claims of being the first MINI and first premium small car to run solely on electrical power, here are some of the few things to know about the pilot automobile.
Inspired by the MINI 3 Door, the vehicle concept is based on the dimensions, design space and interior ambience that draws from the original conventionally-powered vehicle. In place of a petrol or diesel engine, the MINI Electric is fitted with an electric motor under the bonnet, in a compact unit that’s framed by a solid tube structure.
Despite its small size, the motor is still the latest, most powerful version developed by the BMW Group, and delivers on a maximum output of 135 kW/184 hp, while its maximum torque of 270 Nm is immediately available from standstill.
The high-voltage battery itself consists of lithium-ion cells, which provide a gross energy content of 32.6 kWh, and can be charged to 80% in 2.5 hours, and 100% in 3.5 hours.
With a smaller and significantly lighter combustion engine, the MINI Electric also has a lower centre of gravity as compared to the MINI 3 Door which makes it easier for agile handling and is great especially while turning corners at high speeds.
But it doesn’t end there, in fact, the new electric car is also more cost-efficient and includes premium standard features, including Apple CarPlay™ and an Active Driving Assistant. Other high-tech features include Park Distance Control in the front and rear, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and the MINI Head-Up Display, which displays important information right in the driver’s line of vision, so he or she can concentrate on the road.
Of course, the whole point of why the MINI Electric is significant in the first place has to do with the conversations around climate change. Electric Vehicles (EVs) are often seen as the vehicle of the future, since the eco-friendly models do not release harmful gases into the atmosphere and are less pollutive; in fact, they also help reduce total carbon emissions. With Singapore’s goal to increase the number of public charging ports and more, you might be tempted to make the switch now — especially when presented with.such a fine option.
For a brief overview, here’s what you need to know about the MINI Electric:
🚗 First MINI and first small car in the premium segment to run on electrical power only.
🚗 Electric motor with 135 kW/184 hp and 270 Nm. Recuperation can be configured at two levels for individual one-pedal feeling.
🚗 Model-specific lithium-ion battery enables a range of 242-270 km without constraints in luggage compartment volume.
🚗 Can be charged at a wallbox or public charging stations. Fast direct-current charging possible at up to 50 kW.
🚗 Outstanding agility due to spontaneous power delivery, low centre of gravity, front-wheel drive, and wheel slip limiting close to the actuator.
🚗 Acceleration from 0-60 km/h in 3.9 seconds and 0-100 km/h in 7.3 seconds.
🚗 Characteristic design of the MINI 3 Door with model-specific accentuations.
🚗 Model-specific display and control elements in the interior.
🚗 First MINI model in Singapore to feature Driving Assistant as standard. Other equipment highlights include Adaptive LED Matrix Headlights and Connected Navigation Plus.
The new MINI Electric ($163,888) is now available for viewing at the Eurokars Habitat showroom. For more information, visit press.bmwgroup.com.
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