Cashing In On A Ride: A Second Look At The Electric Mini Cooper SE
British Electric Hatchback, Mini Cooper SE, Earns High Grades in Efficiency and Performance
In the world of electric vehicles, it's not every day you come across one that looks like it rolled off the assembly line decades ago. But that's precisely what the Mini Cooper SE presents. Let's take a peek under its hood and see if it's more than just a pretty face.
First and foremost, the Mini's handling is an absolute dream. Agility? Check. That's thanks to its go-kart vibes, which make it stand out in a crowd. The electrification seems to have made a worthy addition to the classic English sports car's charm. Of course, not everyone will be won over by its looks, but the thrilling acceleration will surely rope them in.
Mini Cooper - A Brief History
The Mini's electric transformation wasn't an overnight success. There were experiments with electric Minis years ago, and BMW showed the world the final product at the IAA 2019. It hit the market in early 2020 at a starting price of 32,500 euros, maintaining its classic appearance.
The Future Awaits
With the model update in 2021, the Mini Cooper SE underwent a facelift, including a refresh on the front end. New lighting options were also introduced, such as a matrix high beam and a replacement for fog lights. As for the future, the Mini Cooper Electric will replace the current model, scheduled to roll out in 2024.
Size Does Matter (Kinda)
The Mini Cooper SE is available in a three-seater configuration, while the traditional Mini offers a five-seater option. An open-top Mini SE received positive feedback, leading to a cabriolet version being released in spring 2023, limited to 999 units.
Dimensions (Courtesy of ADAC)
The Mini Cooper SE is a compact vehicle, measuring 3.82 to 3.85 meters in length, 1.73 meters in width, and 1.43 meters in height, with a trunk volume of 211 to 731 liters. The cabrio version is slightly larger at 3.88 meters in length, 1.73 meters in width, and 1.42 meters in height, with a trunk volume of 215 liters.
Top Marks, Few Reservations
During its HU, the Mini Cooper SE left inspectors impressed, showing no major weaknesses. The suspension was found to be unremarkable, as were the axle hangers, springs, and dampers. The brakes were faultless, and there was no oil loss, which can occur in electric cars.
Picking Nit & Strumming It
Interestingly, some troublesome spots were discovered involving the dipped beam and front lighting. The battery's maximum charging power was also considered to be dated, clocking in at 50 kW. But with a lightning-fast acceleration to 100 km/h in less than seven seconds, it's easy to overlook these minor issues.
Breakdown Behavior
The Mini Cooper SE's rare registration numbers mean ADAC doesn't have much data on breakdown frequency. However, electric cars generally seem to have fewer breakdowns than their combustion engine counterparts.
Powertrain Details
The Mini Cooper SE is equipped with an electromotor producing 135 kW/184 hp, paired with a net battery capacity of 28.9 kWh. Charging times vary, with a 11 kW charger requiring 2.5 hours and a 50 kW charger reducing that time to 35 minutes.
Used Car Prices (Courtesy of DAT)
- Cooper SE Classic Trim (6/2021) - 15,733 euros
- Cabrio Cooper SE (6/2023) - 39,216 euros
- Cooper SE Trim XL (6/2020) - 16,356 euros
In conclusion, the Mini Cooper SE makes a strong case as an electric vehicle. While it may not be perfect, it delivers an enjoyable driving experience and holds its own during an HU. Whether or not it's the right choice for you depends on your preferences and needs. Just remember to keep an eye on the dipped beam and consider upgrading the charging system for better efficiency. Drive safe, and happy motoring!
In light of the electric vehicle market, the energy policy and community policy within this sector should consider the growth of compact vehicles like the Mini Cooper SE. As finance plays a crucial role in consumer decisions, understanding the pricing of used Mini Cooper SE models can help potential buyers make informed choices about their next lifestyle investment. Meanwhile, advancements in technology, such as the Mini Cooper Electric scheduled for release in 2024, will no doubt influence the sports culture in the coming years.
