The transition to electric propulsion has the involvement of all car manufacturers, whether for environmental awareness or compliance with community regulations. Mini is no stranger to this situation, no matter how classic and sporty its essence as a brand is. Since the Mini Electric Concept was presented in 2017, it was a matter of time for the production model to arrive and 2020 is the year marked for the beginning of this new era. We do not know to what extent the coronavirus will affect the strategies proposed by car manufacturers but this return to the sun should mark a before and after in its driving offer. The British firm seemed to be ready with the presentation of the new Mini Cooper SE , its first 100% electric model with 184 hp of power and about 235 kilometers of autonomy . The price of these variants is not suitable for any pocket since it starts at 33,950 euros .
Mini has not developed an exclusive platform for its electric version, it uses the same architecture as the Mini 3-door traditional combustion. The elements of this zero-emission propulsion have been adapted, using the space of the heat engine for the electric and the space under the floor for the batteries. This industrial recycling results in a Mini Cooper SE very similar to its more ‘polluting’ siblings. Its design, therefore, remains familiar and the interior habitability is identical, with 211 liters of luggage compartment capacity .
As a member of the BMW family, the Mini Cooper SE shares power with the BMW i3S . An engine powered by a 32.6 kWh lithium-ion battery , with a consumption (WLTP cycle) of 13.2 kWh / 100 kilometers and an approved range of 235 kilometers. Anyone might think that they are not remarkable data and they would not be wrong. There are cheaper alternatives that are capable of going further on a single charge, but Mini has its own reason for being. Its arguments lie in the quality and premium experience of its driving, which starts from the moment you see it until you leave it parked in your garage. A sense of belonging that few auto firms can offer.
