The latest launch from MINI, that fun, sophisticated premium brand, is not exactly a shocker. The new all-electric MINI introduced for the first time in Malaysia, was launched earlier in Thailand. But what it does is to further expand on BMW Group’s offering of premium electrified vehicles to drive its vision for electrification in Malaysia, as well as boost the MINI portfolio. Based on the three-door MINI Cooper S, this is the first fully electric vehicle from the brand.
“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.
Powertrain
Part of the characteristic driving experience in the 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. This is then fed back into the high-voltage battery. There are four driving modes i.e. Sport, Mid, Green and the new Green+ mode which increases the electric range by limiting selected comfort functions.
Fitted with an actuator-contiguous wheel slip limiter (ARB) function, the electric MINI gains significant improvement in traction. This function also reduces power understeering that usually occurs with front-wheel drive vehicles. Additionally, 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.
Appearance
To differentiate it further from the conventional three-door Cooper S, this one comes with model-specific bumper and radiator grille in Vigorous Grey with a bright yellow E-Badge. Grille blades are available in two colours i.e. Vigorous Grey and Energetic Yellow.
With the Lights package, this electric hatch is equipped with Matrix LED headlights and LED rear lights featuring the iconic Union Jack design. Along the sides, this 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. The 17″ MINI Electric Power Spoke two-tone wheels with run flat tyres are distinct and tell others this is no ordinary hatch. Further, both exterior and interior mirrors come standard with anti-dazzle function.
Exterior colour offerings include the exclusive White Silver with Energetic Yellow pairing, British Racing Green, and Chili Red.
Battery
The charging port for this MINI is where you would normally fill petrol. The charging flap with embossed E-badge in the chosen body colour is there to remind you to not fill petrol. Meanwhile, the tailgate handle comes in a contrasting Vigorous Grey grille. 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.
It takes about 2.5 hours to charge this MINI to 80% from the MINI Wallbox Plus (optional), a time similar to a public charging station. However, using the yellow contingency charging cable (which comes with the car), the MINI can be charged at home via an outlet but it will take about 12 hours to get to 80%. There is a much faster charging method which requires a special DC (direct current) charging station. This gives you 80% charge in just 36 minutes. However, DC charging stations are very limited and costly to establish, but the BMW Group is talking to various parties to improve this.
Cabin
The interior offers a new design language, crafted exclusively for the 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 driver, and passengers, of the 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 ambient lighting. The multi-function sport leather steering wheel and raised center console with integrated electric parking brake are also standard items. With the same dimensions as the Cooper S, the luggage capacity is unchanged at 211 litres, expandable to 731 litres.
Driving & Entertainment Gizmos
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 this system.
Meanwhile, the state-of-the-art MINI eDrive gives 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.
To add on, the MINI Connected app provides full transparency on the vehicle’s status. It is able to also set a timer to ensure the vehicle is fully charged before the drive, as well as precondition to a set temperature while being charged. The app also displays personal driving statistics and tutorials to help improve the driver’s skills for efficient driving.
Driving Assistant
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 functions ensure 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.
Besides that, it is also equipped with Park Assistant, front and rear Park Distance Control, Cruise Control with braking function, along with the Wired packages as standard.
Price
The all-electric MINI Cooper S has a recommended retail price of RM225,888. However, with the current reduction in sales tax offered by the government’s PENJANA initiative, its price is reduced to RM218,38.78.
It is covered by the MINI 4 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty, and 8 Years / 100,000 km High Voltage Battery Warranty with Free Scheduled Service.
The MINI can be booked online via https://shop.mini.my/booking/mini-electric, with a booking fee of RM1,000.
MINI Financing
With the Balloon Financing from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, ownership of this MINI starts from RM2,421 a month (based on estimates of 80% loan on a five-year tenure).
MINI Roadside Assistance
The MINI is covered by MINI Malaysia’s 5 Years Roadside Assistance programme, available for all new MINI vehicles. The comprehensive list of services include a 24-Hour, 365-days-a-year Accident and Help on the Phone and On the Spot Hotline, Free Towing Services (over 200 km 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.
More information can be found at www.mini.my.
Keyword: All-Electric MINI Cooper Launched In Malaysia; 8 Years Warranty On Battery