The MINI Countryman E is the latest addition to the brand’s lineup of electric vehicles. It made its world premiere at the IAA Mobility 2023 in Munich, Germany, and then crossed the Atlantic to make its North American debut in New York City. The occasion was a panel discussion hosted by URBAN-X, the startup accelerator founded by MINI, as part of Climate Week NYC. The event focused on the challenges and opportunities of transforming urban mobility in the future.
The MINI Countryman E is the first fully electric model of the largest and most versatile MINI vehicle. It combines a distinctive design, advanced drive technology, and an immersive digital experience. It also offers more space in the interior and an increased electric range of up to 287 miles (462 kilometers) on a single charge, according to the WLTP cycle. This makes it an ideal choice for urban explorers who want to enjoy the electrified go-kart feeling with a reduced ecological footprint.
The MINI Countryman E is powered by a 204-horsepower (150-kilowatt) electric motor that delivers instant torque and agile handling. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h). It supports fast charging at up to 130 kW, allowing drivers to recharge from 10% to 80% capacity in under 30 minutes. The battery pack is located under the floor, lowering the center of gravity and improving the weight distribution.
The design of the MINI Countryman E is inspired by the iconic MINI Cooper SE but with a more rugged and adventurous character. It features a hexagonal grille with a yellow E badge, LED headlights and taillights, front and rear skid plates, roof rails, and aerodynamic wheels. The body color can be chosen from eight options, including the exclusive Island Blue metallic. The roof and mirror caps can be contrasted in black, white, or silver.
The interior of the MINI Countryman E is minimalist and futuristic, with a 9.4-inch OLED circular display that serves as the central hub for navigation, entertainment, and connectivity. The display is surrounded by an LED ring that changes color according to the driving mode, battery level, and other functions. The driver can also access key information on a head-up display that projects onto the windshield. The cabin is equipped with surfaces made of recycled polyester, as well as ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof.
The MINI Countryman E is not only environmentally friendly on the road but also in its production. The electric motor and battery are manufactured at the BMW Group’s e-mobility competence center in Dingolfing, Germany, using 100% green electricity. The light alloy cast wheels are made from up to 70% secondary aluminum, which reduces energy consumption and CO2 emissions by more than half compared to primary aluminum. The vehicle assembly takes place at the VDL Nedcar plant in Born, Netherlands, which also uses renewable energy sources.
The MINI Countryman E is part of the brand’s strategy to become an all-electric brand by 2030. It joins the MINI Cooper SE, the MINI Electric Pacesetter, and the upcoming MINI Vision Urbanaut as the pioneers of the new era of MINI. The brand is also collaborating with URBAN-X, the startup accelerator that supports innovative solutions for urban challenges. Since 2016, URBAN-X has supported more than 70 startups from different countries, covering topics such as mobility, energy, waste, and climate resilience.
The MINI Countryman E is expected to arrive in the US market in fall 2024, with a starting price of around $40,000. It will compete with other electric crossovers such as the Hyundai Kona Electric, the Kia Soul EV, and the Volkswagen ID.4. The MINI Countryman E promises to offer a unique combination of style, performance, and sustainability while staying true to the brand’s heritage and values. It is the perfect vehicle for those who want to experience the joy of driving in the city and beyond without compromising the environment. @via Panorica.
