MINI Starts Testing The Next-gen Cooper SE EV In Sub-zero Temperatures

We know that MINI’s future is electric, and the carmaker has been working on the fifth iteration of the Cooper hatch for sometime, with leaked images surfacing. Well now, the next iteration of its all-electric counterpart, the Cooper SE has been teased, testing in BMW Group's winter test centre in Arjeplog, Sweden.  

Sure, the model teased here is draped in a heavy disguise, but it's quite similar to what we’ve seen from its internal combustion-engined counterpart in earlier leaks. While the traditional circular headlights and front grille are similar, the overall silhouette seems to have gotten a little bit more rounded than before. While the rear gets a sneaky bit of disguise, it's clear that this area will get the biggest change. For reference, earlier leaks of the standard model revealed new tail lamps (ditching the Union Jack signature) with a modern design. That being said, expect the new Cooper SE to get some form of identity over its ICE counterpart with possibly a closed-off grille and EV-specific accents.

 

While the teaser image doesn’t reveal much of the cabin, earlier leaked images suggest it's going to be a cleaner cabin. By that we mean the digital driver’s display and infotainment system being integrated via a large circular screen, with the head-up display giving vital stats. Expect features such as dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, a branded audio system, powered front seats and Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). 

The more effective upgrade will likely be under the hood. While performance details haven’t been revealed, MINI has reassured that it will continue to offer the traditional go-kart-like handling prowess. For reference, the current-gen Cooper SE’s electric motor, coupled with a 32.6kWh battery pack can put out 184PS and 270Nm. It takes 7.3 seconds to go from 0-100kmph and tops out at 150kmph. As for range, it can deliver up to 270 km on a single charge. As for the standard model, it is expected to have petrol, diesel and plug-in-hybrid engine options.

MINI had earlier revealed that the last pure ICE model will arrive by 2025, with every launch thereafter being an electrified model. We expect the fifth-gen Cooper to make its debut later this year alongside the all-electric Cooper SE. As for the Indian market, we just recently got the all-electric Cooper SE, so it might take a long time before the next-gen model shows up.