MINI Cooper SE, the first electric MINI that will surprise its drivers

MINI is one of those brands that have become something more than city cars. A MINI is something to be taken into account and that we must appreciate for what it is: a brand that has been making history throughout its life. And now, MINI is stepping forward and gearing up for the great offensive of the automotive industry, the electrification of its models. The first 100% electric MINI model already has a launch date and we will see it at dealerships in 2020. It is the MINI Cooper SE, the electric variant that aims to stand alongside the combustion-engine model on equal terms.

The MINI Cooper SE comes with that promise: the driver will only have to plug the charger into the car instead of filling up with petrol. Everything else will be exactly the same. To achieve this, the new 100% electric model has been equipped with a lithium-ion battery that will offer a range of between 235 and 270 kilometres, a figure that is yet to be confirmed. This battery can be charged with a domestic charger, a public charger or a fast charger, provided it does not exceed 50 kW.

The battery is located in the floor, which ensures the boot keeps its capacity, between 211 and 731 litres, depending on whether the rear seats are folded or not. To accommodate the battery properly, the car sits 18 millimetres higher off the ground than the combustion-engine model. In terms of styling, the new MINI Cooper SE will have a grille like that of the other MINIs, although the hexagonal shape will be closed, as it does not need the ventilation that the combustion engine requires.

The decorative details that other manufacturers use to signal that a car is electric, typically in blue, are in this case yellow. The words MINI Electric will be present on the bodywork, and everything about this car will mark a clear difference from the combustion-engine models. But let us get to what matters, which is the electric motor that will power the MINI Cooper SE.

This will feature an output of 135 kW, the equivalent of 180 CV, and a maximum torque of 270 Nm, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. The top speed is limited to 150 km/h and, of course, it will come with four driving modes to enhance the driving experience. These modes are Standard MIDI, Green, Green +, and Sport, which offer different ways of managing energy, steering, acceleration and other aspects to make a real difference when enjoying the drive.

The new MINI Cooper SE will begin production from November and its distribution will start in early 2020, although the price is not yet known.