MINI has unveiled its new Electric hatch at the company’s 60th anniversary celebrations in Oxford. Showcased was a three-door EV with a range of 144 miles (WLTP) from a 32.6 kWh battery.
Performance will match that of MINI’s Cooper S: 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds, from a 135 kW electric motor producing 270 Nm of torque. It is front-wheel drive.
Although a relatively limited range by current mass-market EV standards, the MINI is a premium hatch aimed at urban drivers, where outright driving range is less of a priority. It also shows a trend developing, initiated by the Honda e, where stylish, compact models are developed without joining in the range ‘arms race’.
Charging will be possible at up to 11 kW AC and 50 kW DC through a CCS socket. Prices start at £24,400 (including £3,500 Plug-in Car Grant), with leasing available at £299 per month. Which sounds reasonable except it’s on a 48 month PCH agreement and £4,000 initial rental. Hmmmm.
Order books are open now; deliveries expected March 2020.
