For its fourth and now previous generation, Mini offered a 100% electric version for the first time. Expensive and with too little range (less than 250 km in actual use), for this fifth and new generation the British firm has revised its copy with not one, but two new 100% electric versions: Cooper E and Cooper SE.

Integrated into the new Mini family, the term “Cooper” is no longer limited to a simple engine designation, but now covers all three- and five-door Mini models, as well as the Mini Cabrio. This development reflects the brand’s desire to change its range around electrification.

More than 400 km of autonomy for the Mini Cooper SE

The classic round headlights and the legendary octagonal grille that mark the front of the car do not change the iconic characteristics of the Mini.

Mini Cooper E is equipped with an electric motor from 184 hp and 290 Nm, which allows the car to accelerate to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. Mini Cooper SE is slightly more powerful 218 hp and 330 Nm, to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds. The announced autonomy is 305 kilometers for Mini Cooper E according to the WLTP cycle and 402 kilometers for Mini Cooper SE.

This difference in autonomy is explained by the presence of two batteries of different capacities. The Mini Cooper E is equipped with a battery with a capacity of 40.7 kWhwhile the SE gets the battery 54.2 kWh.

Strict minimalism

The interior of the new Mini stands out for its minimalistic and digital design. A clean instrument panel and a multifunction steering wheel are reminiscent of the brand’s codes. The gear lever has been removed to make room for storage between the front seats.

The central OLED screen has a diameter of 24 cm and contains an intelligent personal assistant that is activated with the words “Hey Mini”, enough to control several functions thanks to a voice command. Below the screen we find a “switch panel” with five buttons strategically placed below the round screen, which brings together all the main driving functions.

The updated interior of the car received exquisite textile surfaces thanks to a special weaving process. Seven Mini Experience Modes create a dynamic atmosphere in the cabin, and special light projections expand the colors of the screen on the instrument panel.

The new interior is connected with environmental commitments: The Cooper Electric’s leather upholstery is made from synthetic elements, while the textiles, stitching and dashboard surfaces are made from recycled materials..

The catalog will offer four different configurations – Essential, Classic, Favored and JCW. French prices will be announced in the next few weeks.

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