MINI has announced the local pricing and arrival schedule for its highly-anticipated first-ever all-electric MINI.
Priced at $59,900*(National drive away price), a limited number of launch special “First Edition” variants will arrive in Australian dealerships from August 2020.
The MINI Electric Hatch is powered by a 32.6kWh latest-generation lithium-ion battery, producing an impressive 135kW of power that results in a 0-100km/h acceleration time of just 7.3 seconds.
Capable of a 233-kilometre drive range on a single charge, according to latest WLTP measurement standards, the MINI Electric Hatch is also perfect for metropolitan dwellers and intra-city commutes, able to achieve an 80% charge in just 35 minutes when using a 50kW DC public charger.
The MINI Electric Hatch retains MINI’s famed “go-kart” driving feel by positioning powertrain components low and near the centre of the car in a T-shape, coupled with suspension tuning unique to the car for a low centre of gravity that produces sharp, responsive handling.
The MINI Electric Hatch is built in the UK at MINI Plant Oxford, the birthplace and heart of MINI production.
“The arrival of the MINI Electric Hatch in Australia heralds a new chapter for the brand – a charge into the future of electromobility without compromising the marque’s core values of creativity, vibrancy and smart urbanity,” said Brett Waudby, General Manager of MINI Australia.
“It is wonderful to see such a positive response we are getting to the car. Our dealers across the nation are extremely excited to add this model to our customer offering, which is sure to be an absolute thrill to drive,” Mr. Waudby concluded.
Whether 233km of range would be enough for the general fleet buyer remains to be seen, but having the ability to recharge to 80% in 35 minutes might just be this MINI’s secret weapon in an ever-broadening EV industry.
