THE first ever all-electric MINI is set to charge into Australia this August, with the three door EV model based on the internal combustion (ICE) powered MINI Cooper S, but with exterior accents unique to the brand’s first ever electric vehicle.
Four colours will be available at launch, including White Silver, Midnight Black, Chilli Red and British Racing Green, with special wheel combinations designed to endow the car with a sporty, yet futuristic, look.
Powered by a 32.6kWh latest generation lithium-ion battery, the MINI electric hatch produces an impressive 135kW of power that results in a 0-100km/h acceleration time of just 7.3 seconds.
Capable of a 233km drive range on a single charge, the MINI EV is also perfect for metropolitan dwellers and intra-city commuters. It’s able to achieve an 80 per cent charge in just 35 minutes when using a 50kW DC public charger.
The EV MINI retains the car maker’s famed ‘go-kart’ driving feel by positioning power train components low and near the centre of the car in a T-shape, coupled with suspension tuning for a low centre of gravity that produces sharp, responsive handling.
Being built in the UK at MINI Plant Oxford, the EV model keeps to the birthplace and heart of MINI production, maintaining a sense of history despite its revolutionary role in producing the next generation of MINI cars.
Buyers who choose their electric MINI in White Silver or Midnight Black will score 17-inch electric power spoke wheels, while recipients of the Chilli Red and British Racing Green coloured variants get 17-inch tentacle spoke wheels.
Adaptive LED headlights also feature, along with an ‘electric’ specific interior, with leather cross punch sports seats, with both front seats also heated. A head-up display, digital dash and Harman/Kardon hi-fi sound system are also included.
Interested fans can choose from four different specifications in the range, with ordering launched in recent days. Should you be keen to buy one, you can also make an online deposit with your favourite MINI dealer, without ever leaving the comfort of your home.
Priced at $59,900 drive away, a limited number of launch special First Edition variants will arrive in Australian dealerships from August 2020.
