All-electric MINI offers big driving experience

The MINI BEV is a battery-electric vehicle that combines the iconic design and go-kart feeling of the MINI brand with the benefits of zero-emission driving. It is based on the MINI Electric Hardtop, which was launched in 2020 as the first fully electric model from MINI.

The exterior design of the vehicle is unmistakably MINI, with its round headlights, hexagonal grille, and circular mirror caps. The grille is closed to improve aerodynamics and has a yellow ‘s’ that signifies its electric nature. The same yellow accent can be found on the wheel hubs, and it is also used as the primary colour for most of the emblems on the car. The MINI BEV also has unique bumpers and side skirts that enhance its sporty look. The car is available in six colours: White Silver Metallic, Midnight Black Metallic, Chili Red, British Racing Green Metallic, Island Blue Metallic, and Enigmatic Black Metallic.

The interior design is modern and minimalist, with a digital instrument cluster and an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is encompassed in a circular frame that has lighted animation to match the adjustment of the volume and AC settings.

The centre console has an eDrive toggle switch that allows the driver to choose between four driving modes: Sport, Mid, Green, and Green+. The latter mode maximises the range by limiting the use of comfort features such as air conditioning and heating. The interior also has ambient lighting that changes colour according to the driving mode and mood of the driver. The seats are upholstered in leatherette or cloth-leather combination, with optional heated front seats.

The technology of the MINI BEV is impressive as it offers a range of advanced driver assistance systems and connectivity features. Some of the standard safety features include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane -departure warning, rearview camera, rear-parking sensors, and rain-sensing wipers. Some of the optional features include adaptive cruise control, park assist, head-up display, wireless charging pad, and Harman Kardon sound system. The car also comes with a MINI Connected app that allows the driver to remotely check the battery status, locate charging stations, pre-condition the cabin temperature, and lock or unlock the doors.

Driving

The driving experience of the MINI BEV is exhilarating as it delivers instant torque and agile handling. The car has a single electric motor that produces 181 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60mph in 6.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 93mph or 150kmh. The car has a low centre of gravity and a well-balanced weight distribution that enhance its stability and cornering ability. It also has a two-level regenerative braking system that recovers energy when decelerating and allows the driver to choose between one-pedal driving or coasting. Now this can take some getting used to as the one-pedal driving does not mimic a traditional vehicle due to the fact that it comes to an immediate stop whenever the accelerator is no longer pressed.

The electric range of the MINI BEV is adequate for most daily trips but may not be enough for long-distance travel. The car has a 32.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that provides an EPA-estimated range of 110 miles on a full charge. This is comparable to some of its rivals such as the Honda e (137 miles) and the Fiat 500e (115 miles) but lower than others such as the Hyundai Kona Electric (258 miles) and the Chevrolet Bolt EV (259 miles). However, the MINI BEV has an advantage in terms of charging speed as it can use up to 50 kW DC fast-charging stations that can replenish 80% of the battery in 36 minutes or 100% in 60 minutes.

In conclusion, the MINI BEV is a fun and stylish electric car that offers a distinctive driving experience and personality. It is ideal for those who love the MINI brand and want to switch to an eco-friendly vehicle without compromising on performance or quality. However, it may not be suitable for those who need more space or range from their electric car.

Price of tested model: $8.295m

Engine: 32.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack

Horse Power: 181

Torque: 199 lb-ft

Front wheel drive

Body Type: 2-door hatchback

Competition: Honda e, Fiat 500e, Hyundai Kona Electric, Chevrolet Bolt EV

Vehicle provided by ATL Automotive Ltd, 1876-754-0013, email: sales@atlautomotive.com, atlautomotive.com