Are we onboard?

Here at MINISTRY Auto we understand that not all of our MINIac friends will embrace the electric revolution that’s been thrust upon us. We ourselves have our own reservations but hopefully together we can embrace all things MINI. Starting with the latest EV’s from Munich.

In an era marked by a growing shift towards sustainable mobility solutions, MINI has taken a momentous step forward with the launch of the 2024 MINI Cooper S and Countryman EV.

These two new additions to the MINI lineup have been launched all-electric, with Electric E and Electric SE models available. They have 135kW and 160kW, with 145 and 400km respective stated range figures.

The faster of the two does the 0 - 100km/h sprint in 6.7 Sec which is no slouch. Petrol versions will be available but no news on timing yet.

Electrifying Design

At first glance, the 2024 MINI Cooper S and Countryman EV maintains the unmistakable charm that has made the brand a global icon.

The look is sleek and modern but does lack some of the iconic design features that are inherently MINI.

For example, the wheel arch trims are no longer a thing. The door handles look like a cheap Camry and there is no bulge in the bonnet. It’s just a little too sleek and not bold enough for a new generation MINI.

However, beneath its familiar exterior lies a modern heart powered purely by electricity. With sleek lines and an updated front fascia, this electric variant exudes contemporary style while attempting to stay true to its MINI heritage.

The new Countryman EV has had another growth spurt with an extra 130mm in length and 60mm added to the height. Mum would be proud but not so our MINI enthusiasts because of course this comes with a cost of weight.

To counteract this extra bulge the Countryman is offered in E and SE versions with the SE offering a Dual motor boasting 308HP and 494Nm of torque. Fast enough to grab the shopping between kid pick ups and will get you to the legal limit in just 5.6 Seconds! All with a anxiety relieving 433km battery range.

Interior Innovation

Inside the cabin, the MINI EV continues to impress. Its spacious and well-crafted interior boasts premium materials, cutting-edge technology, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The redesigned center console now includes a large touchscreen edgeless display and 2D knitted textile dash that looks a little BMW I3 esk!

A multitude of options for lighting, sound and feel for this incredibly futuristic cabin.

It even has a classic screen display with a nod to the original MINI.

Technology

Of course, the new MINIs are packed with new innovative technology. Some you’ll like and others you may be left feeling a little lost in this new world as we were. Like the familiar MINI/BMW Experience modes that will now be accompanied by a corresponding soundtrack.

‘Core’ creates a sound which is audible inside and outside the car to help warn pedestrians, ‘Go-Kart’ produces a “pronounced pitch and fall” sound. Interestingly, the ’Balance’ sound “is based on the noises heard in a forest at different times of the day and night, from the rippling of a stream and the chirping of crickets to the rustling of the wind in the treetops.” A long way from the ‘pops and bangs’ that are produced on overrun from previous generations. Not quite as exciting.

There’s still hope as the petrol version is also in its way.

Summary

No doubt this is a classy, uber cool car we’ve come to expect from MINI. Electric may be the way forward although we’re more interested in Porsches E-fuels as a viable carbon neutral option.

We think this might be a really nice and efficient second car for inner city commuting but I personally would look forward to the weekends so I can take out my R56S for a mountain run.

What do you think?

Ryan Richards

Director

MINISTRY Auto