All-Electric MINI Cooper Begins Its Testing in the Arctic Circle
Spy photographers have caught the Mini Cooper E testing for the first time.
First previewed by the MINI Electric Concept last year, the production model is expected to go on sale in 2019, as a 2020 model year in the U.S. The British automaker has confirmed it will use the three-door Hardtop bodystyle, and it should offer a range of at least 200 miles on a single charge. Expect it to ride on a version of BMW’s UKL platform, with final assembly taking place in Oxford, England where the standard Hardtop models are built.
SEE ALSO: Stylish Concept Previews Future Electric MINI Model
The electric powertrain will be supplied by parent company BMW, which has invested heavily into electrification with its i sub-brand.
Although the prototype looks mostly like the existing MINI Cooper, expect to see some different styling elements for the production model to set it apart. The concept featured bright yellow accents, which were inspired by the MINI E, the company’s first entry in the EV market.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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A MINI Cooper seems like a good candidate for all-electric. It's an appliance on wheels. Plugging it into an outlet, like an appliance, won't seem foreign. And 200 miles (320 km) on a single charge is good for what's probably mostly a city car.
The first 4000 pound "Mini"?