Mini is a brand that’s successfully evolved to remain relevant for the times – introducing SUVs and electrified models to ensure its longevity. 

And the BMW-owned brand has been reaping the benefits of this, with its range of cars continuing to prove popular, including those produced at its factory in Oxford. It’s here where the latest Mini Electric is produced too, but what else do you need to know about this EV? Let’s take a look…

It’s Mini’s first EV

With Mini still predominantly being a maker of small cars, its range of models are brilliantly suited to electrification. Though the firm trialled EVs in the past, and already sells a plug-in hybrid, it wasn’t until 2020 that the Electric arrived. 

Bringing the fun and style that’s expected from Mini, but with a modern future-proof powertrain, it’s very easy to see the appeal, and why an increasing number of buyers are switching out of their petrol and diesel hatchbacks and into the Electric. 

Huge fun to drive

Mini has always prided itself on its cars’ ‘go-kart feel’ behind the wheel, and thankfully those attributes have been retained for this EV. 

In fact, we’d go as far as to say that it’s actually even more entertaining to drive than the regular car, with the immediacy of the electric delivery making it huge fun. It still feels light and nimble too, even with the additional weight of the battery. With 181bhp and 270Nm on offer, it feels hot hatch fast too, particularly with 0-60mph taking just 7.1 seconds. 

Cool styling

Style is everything for Mini, and it’s a key reason as to why so many choose to buy a car from the brand. The good news is that the Electric looks almost identical to the 3-Door Mini Hatch – the brand’s most recognisable model. 

There are subtle differences though – such as yellow detailing (though this can be deleted), the lack of rear exhaust and slightly different grille – but it still looks every bit like you’d expect a Mini to. 

Perfect city-aimed electric range

Though some have criticised the Mini Electric’s range, if you live in a town or city – or even do a regular commute – this EV should still prove a capable option.

Mini claims up to 143 miles from a charge, though you are aided by its 50kW rapid charging capability, which can see the battery replenished in just 36 minutes, meaning longer journeys will be possible with some additional planning. 

Simple trim structure

BMW has adopted the curved display setup that you’ll find in its latest i4 and iX models for the i7. It combines two screens – one ahead of the driver and one in the middle of the dash – underneath one piece of glass to create one wraparound display. 

It’s got loads of features incorporated into it, such as all of your media and navigation systems. The screen ahead of the driver can be adjusted to show a variety of different readouts and displays, too.