Despite so many delays on new products and reveals, Mini has pushed forward and beaten their original predictions for the full-electric Cooper SE in South Africa. Originally planned to land on our shores in 2021, Mini now expect the new Cooper SE to be released into South Africa before the end of 2020. This is a very positive surprise as it will expand the local electric lineup in the more affordable range.
The SE is still the Mini Cooper we know in South Africa.
Everything about the this Mini remains true to the Mini 3-door shape we know very well. There are some minor details that we have discussed when the original announcement of the Cooper SE was made.
With the addition of a battery, luggage space is often compromised which is not the case in this Mini Cooper SE. It still boasts storage of 211 litres. The cabin has also been kept relatively the same with a 5.5-inch digital driver’s display and 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Performance, range and charging.
As a reminder for what drives this EV, a single electric motor gets power from a 32.6 kWh lithium-ion battery. This gives 135 kW and 270 Nm of instant torque to the front wheels. Driving at regular speeds can get a range of 235 to 270 km, more than enough for a daily commute while putting the pedal down can get from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds.
While you’re not the fastest car on the road, the acceleration is instant so you are a lot quicker in city streets as well as being emission-free. When it comes to charging, you can get to 80% in just 2.5 hours while at a 50 kW charging station in just 35 minutes. To be honest, you are likely going to be charging at home until our local infrastructure can support more EVs.
Our local price.
The Mini Cooper SE Trim S will start from R642,000 making it the cheapest EV in South Africa. We cannot wait to see more of it later this year and we hope it puts an electric spark in the local scene.