MINI, the most Iconic compact premium automotive brand in Malaysia today introduced the New All-Electric MINI and the New MINI John Cooper Works GP, the most powerful MINI GP ever built for a track-worthy go-kart feeling – further expanding the premium  segment of the MINI portfolio.

It is a double celebration for Mini Malaysia as these two new models were unveiled in conjunction with the automaker’s 61st birthday. Now let’s look at the E-Mini first (we will cover the Mini JCW GP in our next article).

The stylish minimalistic three-door hatch arrives with an electrifying new design language that sets the model apart in the MINI portfolio, while building upon the 60-year heritage of the MINI brand. The new three-door hatch is powered by the highly-powerful electric motor developed by the BMW Group that is capable of up to 184 HP and 270 Nm of torque – offering maximum thrill of the road without the carbon footprint.

The New All-Electric MINI can also be recharged up to 80% within just two and a half hours with the MINI Wallbox Plus. When driving, brake energy regeneration from decelerating the vehicle not only feeds back into the high-voltage battery but also allows for the vehicle to be driven using only a single pedal. The new three-door hatch is also the first MINI model to feature a 5.5-inch Digital Instrument Cluster for smoother accessibility to key driving information.

“As a brand set in the cornerstones of passion, MINI continues to deliver maximum thrilling driving excitement, while innovating to provide a more sustainable go-karting thrill in this generation. For the very first time and in celebrating MINI’s 61^st Birthday, we are thrilled to bring this innovation into reality with the New All-Electric MINI. The New All-Electric MINI further expands the electrified line-up of MINI models here in Malaysia,” said Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

“Since we introduced the first electrified MINI model in 2017 with the MINI Countryman Plug-in Hybrid, electrified MINIs have become a fan-favourite amongst MINIacs nationwide. In just 2019, MINI delivered close to 17,000 units of the MINI Countryman PHEV worldwide. This success drives our commitment towards electromobility even further, as it underlines the increasing shift towards electrified vehicles amongst MINIacs globally,” said Hoelzl.

An electrifying appeal.

Identical in size to the MINI Cooper S, the New All-Electric MINI features a brand-new electrifying appearance that is accentuated by elements in the youthful Energetic Yellow offering. The vehicle arrives with the model-specific bumper and radiator grille in Vigorous Grey with yellow E-Badge. Grille blades will be available in two colours: Vigorous Grey or Energetic Yellow.

With the Lights package, the new three-door hatch is equipped with Matrix LED headlights and LED rear lights featuring the iconic Union Jack design. Along the sides, the New All-Electric MINI features adapted spats geometry, the E-Badge on the side scuttle, as well as aero-optimised mirror caps in either Black or Energetic Yellow. Interior and exterior mirrors with anti-dazzle function also equips the vehicle as standard. The new MINI rides on 17-inch wheels in the MINI Electric Power Spoke two-tone with run flat tyres.

Moving to the back, the New All-Electric MINI features a charging flap with embossed E-badge in the chosen body colour. The tailgate handle in Vigorous Grey grille contrast. The model badge and E-Badge with yellow accents are also fitted as standard to the new three-door hatch, along with the model-specific rear bumper with diffuser.

Maximum driving thrill, minimum carbon footprint.

The New All-Electric MINI is powered by the latest, highly powerful version of the synchronous electric motor developed by the BMW Group – a front-axle electric engine capable of 135kw/184HP, as well as a 12-module T-shaped battery unit with a net capacity of 28.9kWh. The New All-Electric MINI has a peak torque of 270Nm, and emits zero carbon emissions locally while consuming 16.8 – 14.8kWh per 100km of travel.

The specific design principle of the drive enables a high level of power development, which extends also into high speed ranges. An exceptionally high level of efficiency coupled with smooth, low-vibration running power is already available from standstill – which is characteristic of electric motors.

Reaching a maximum speed of 150km/h and a driving range of up to 234km (WLTP) or 270km (NEDC), the New All-Electric MINI is also capable of achieving the century sprint in 7.3 seconds. The new three-door hatch will also be driven with a single-speed transmission and integrated differential that maximises the go-kart feeling familiar of a MINI.

Powerful new features for the new MINI.

Part of the characteristic driving experience in the New All-Electric MINI is the single-pedal drive that also contributes to brake energy recovery. The electric motor functions as a generator during coasting mode, transforming kinetic energy into electric power – which then feeds back into the high-voltage battery within the vehicle. The New All-Electric MINI arrives with four driving modes: Sport, Mid, Green and the new Green+ mode – which increases the electric range by limiting selected comfort functions.

The New All-Electric MINI also features the actuator-contiguous wheel slip limiter (ARB) function which significantly improves traction by providing faster control. The function also reduces power understeering that usually occurs with front-wheel drive vehicles. The rear axle is configured to the front axle, which features electric-specific steering knuckles; this enables an electric-specific suspension setting in combination with the body-mounted wheelhouse liners.

MINI Electric – comfort and style.

The new three-door hatch offers an exquisite new interior design language, crafted exclusively for the New All-Electric MINI. The model-specific designs include the MINI Electric Cockpit Fascia, MINI Electric Start/Stop button in Yellow, MINI Electric velour floor mats, an electronic selector lever with Electric design, as well as the brake energy recuperation toggle. The interior rear-view mirror with anti-dazzle function also equips the MINI as standard.

Driver and passengers of the New All-Electric MINI are also able to relax in comfort and style with the dual-zone automatic air conditioning, Leather Cross Punch seats in Carbon Black as well as the MINI 12-Colour Illuminated ambient lighting. The multifunction sport leather steering wheel and raised center console with integrated electric parking brake are also available as standard to the vehicle. Maintaining the same dimensions as the MINI Cooper S, the luggage capacity of the new three-door hatch is also 211 litres with the ability to expand up to 731 litres.

A wealth of navigational information is presented via a 8.8-inch MINI Navigation System equipped with the full MINI Connected suite which includes Teleservices, Remote Services, Intelligent Emergency Call, MINI Online and Apple Carplay. The vehicle is also equipped with the Head Up Display, and offers a premium music experience in the form of the 12-Speaker Harman Kardon Sound System. Endless in-car entertainment is enabled via the wireless charging function for mobile phones.

For the very first time in a MINI vehicle, the New All-Electric MINI arrives with a Digital Instrument Cluster – which is capable of displaying key information on the charging status of the vehicle such as remaining time, percentage of charge, available range and also temperature outside the vehicle. It can also display the current MINI Driving Mode, which then calibrates the colour shown on the light ring in the central instrument accordingly – red (SPORT mode), white (MID) or green (GREEN and GREEN+).

Additionally, the digital instrument cluster also presents the driver with information on traffic sign detection reports and high-guiding directions from the navigation system. Telephone contacts and audio programme lists can also be accessed via the system.

All electricity, no emissions.

The New All-Electric MINI offers a range of charging possibilities, whether at home or at a public charging facility. When recharging at a DC charging station, the New All-Electric MINI only requires approximately 36 minutes to go from zero to 80% charge. The MINI Wallbox Plus offers an 80% charge in just two and half hours, similar to recharging at a public charging station. At home, the MINI can be charged to 80% in 12 hours with the yellow contingency charging cable, available with the vehicle. The charging progress of the New All-Electric MINI can be viewed on the inside of the charging flap.

The MINI eDrive is also a state-of-the-art technological addition to the New All-Electric MINI – giving the vehicle intelligent digital services and functions for a hassle-free drive. The Green Driving Assistant (GDA) provides useful onboard functionalities, such as the Range Assistant that presents different solutions to the driver in case of insufficient battery. It is able to suggest a more efficient route (Green Route), driving mode or the nearest charging station, so the driver can still arrive at their destination. The range circle also displays the range within the selected driving mode in the map.

Charging forward with intelligent assistance.

The MINI Connected app provides full transparency on the New All-Electric MINI’s status, and is able to also set a timer to ensure the vehicle is fully charged before the drive, as well as preconditioned to the set temperature while being charged. The app also displays personal driving statistics and tutorials to help improve the driver’s skills for efficient driving.

The New All-Electric MINI is also the first MINI model in Malaysia to be equipped with the Driving Assistant system. This camera-based driving assistance system package consists of the Speed Limit info, as well as the digital high-beam assistant which automatically activates at speeds of 50 km/h and higher, or when there is insufficient exterior lighting.

The Driving Assistant system is also equipped with the person warning with light city braking function and the approach control warning with light city braking function – both ensuring maximum safety during potential collision by preconditioning the brakes for faster brake response and shorter braking distances. If the impact cannot be avoided, the braking functions help to reduce the impact speed.

The New All-Electric MINI is also equipped with the Park Assistant, front and rear Park Distance Control, Cruise Control with braking function, along with the Wired packages as standard.

Exterior colour offerings of the New All-Electric MINI include the exclusive White Silver with Energetic Yellow pairing, the British Racing Green, and the Chili Red. The New All-Electric MINI will be available at all authorised MINI dealerships nationwide from 26^th August 2020.

Editor’s note:

** Question were raised as to how much the road tax will be for this All Electric Mini. According to Mini Malaysia, they are still in the process of sorting that out with the Malaysian government. We will keep you posted once we receive updates from them.

The New All-Electric MINI can be booked online via https://shop.mini.my/booking/mini-electric, with a booking fee of RM1,000.

MINI Roadside Assistance.

The New All-Electric MINIis covered by MINI Malaysia’s 5 Years Roadside Assistance programme, available for all new MINI vehicles with a comprehensive list of services that include a 24-Hour, 365-days-a-year Accident and Help on the Phone and On the Spot Hotline, Free Towing Services and when needed (over 200KM from residential home), Replacement Vehicle, Seamless Mobility, Accommodation, Mobility Services Solutions as well as Repatriation services.

The MINI Roadside Assistance programme can be accessed by contacting 1800-88-8808.

MINI Service Online.

Making a service appointment has never been easier. The new online service programme will now allow customers to schedule their service needs directly at their preferred MINI Authorised Dealerships via www.service.mini.my.

MINI WALLBOX PLUS.

Normal RRP : RM 8,256.34

Special RRP : RM 6,500.00

MINI PUBLIC CHARGING CABLE.

(5M | 3-PHASE)

Normal RRP : RM 2,041.47

Special RRP : RM 1,388.20

Credits : Photos courtesy of Justin Hong