Will this refreshed MINI Electric be yet another sales hit over here like its pre-facelift predecessor?
While it may not seem like it, the MINI Electric was a surprisingly strong seller locally when it first arrived last year. With its whole stock of 30 units eagerly snapped up within the month it debut over here, could this refreshed version that was launched locally recently then replicate this initial sales success?
Well just focusing on the changes made to the refresh first, this new MINI Electric essentially features much the same revisions as to be found on its recently facelifted petrol-powered counterparts too. To that end therefore, the main change with this revised all-electric hatchback would be its redesigned front end.
Now featuring a larger hexagonal front grille with a body coloured panel that bisects the front end aesthetic and houses the number plate, there have also been other more subtle changed made up front which includes a pair of redesigned adaptive LED headlights, a slimmer front bumper and the ditching of its front fog lights. A new yellow S badge too makes an appearance up front in place of the plug-like E emblem that came before.
Continuing on down its side meanwhile, a modernised side scuttle design that includes LED side repeaters and variant-specific inserts has been added to complement the 17-inch Power Spoke two-tone rims wrapped in run-flat tyres. Unlike its petrol-powered counterparts however, this MINI Electric retains its old rear bumper design but has nevertheless had its grey tailgate handle swapped out for a black piece.
Moving on inside, the MINI Electric gains the same interior refresh as per its fuel-burning siblings with the addition of a new steering wheel and new air vent designs. New ambient lighting strips are also to be found within, in addition to a new Piano Black door bezel decor and MINI Controller.
As for the list of standard equipment, the revised MINI Electric has much the same kit as its pre-facelift predecessor launched last year. The highlights of which includes an 8.8-inch central infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay integration, a 5.0-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, a 12-speaker 360 W Harman Kardon sound system, and its Driving Assistant package that now adds Lane Departure Warning.
In terms of its powertrain too, the updated MINI Electric carries over the same front-mounted electric motor fed by a 28.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack as before. Peak power and torque figures are rated at 135 kW and 270 Nm respectively, that in turn yields a century sprint time of 7.3 seconds, a top speed of 150 km/h and a WLTP-claimed range of 232 km on a full charged.
Speaking of charging, this all-electric hatchback would take around two and a half hours to charge till 80% from flat by way of an 11 kW AC supply through the MINI Wallbox Plus. Alternately, DC fast charging of up to 50 kW can charge the battery from 10 to 80% in just 36 minutes.
And getting back to the question on whether this refreshed MINI Electric would continue to sell over here? The answer is probably yes, as this revised hatchback also features a (marginally) lower retail price of RM 217,470.73 (as opposed to RM 218,381). Do note that this price here is inclusive of the ongoing SST exemption, and comes with a 8-year/100,000km battery warranty.
Coming in three colour combinations: White Silver with Black Roof and Energetic Yellow Accents, the British Racing Green with Black Roof and Black Mirror Caps, and the Midnight Black with White Roof and Energetic Yellow Accents, the MINI Electric is currently available at all authorised MINI dealerships nationwide. Due to the current lockdown restrictions however, prospective buyers are instead encouraged to preview this all-electric hatchback online via the www.mini.my website, with bookings for RM 1,000 also available to be made via the MINI eShop platform.
PRESS RELEASE: MINI, the most sophisticated compact premium automotive brand in Malaysia today introduced the New MINI Electric, with a wealth of new features and a pure design language, expanding MINI’s portfolio of electrified vehicles in the country.
“MINI is synonymous with passion, and it is with electrifying passion that we present the latest variant of the MINI Electric that was first introduced in Malaysia mid-August last year. This has steadily become an icon of the MINI portfolio, and we are proud to see this model perform exceptionally in Malaysia. The New MINI Electric is part of the next generation MINI vehicles, which will adopt a more progressive design language while still retaining the brand’s charm and heritage,” said Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.
“Over 250 electrified MINI vehicles were delivered since the electrified MINI portfolio was introduced locally with the MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid in 2018. The MINI Electric itself accounts for more than 30 units which were quickly snapped up soon after its launch last year. This is an electromobility win for us at MINI Malaysia, as it exemplifies not only the nation’s growing interest for electromobility in the country, but points towards stronger uptake in the months to come,” added de Visser.
The New MINI Electric features a fresh design language that marks MINI’s gradual transition into the next generation, while still proudly exemplifying the traditional MINI genes that makes the brand truly iconic. Now available with a range of new equipment made standard, the New MINI Electric also arrives alongside the latest variants of the MINI 3 Door, MINI 5 Door and MINI Convertible – set to deliver the brand’s hallmark go-kart feeling.
Sustainable mobility for everyone.
The New MINI Electric features a refreshed appearance without compromising on heritage. The latest model features new front bumpers that does away with fog lights and now includes integrated air curtains for improved aerodynamics. A new frontal appearance equips the New MINI Electric, where a new yellow S Badge sits in place of the previous E Badge. A new body-colour safety bar rests on the front bumper, while a black surround now accentuates the hexagonal shape of the vehicle’s radiator grille.
Adaptive LED headlights with Matrix Functionality now come with high-gloss black inner housing; and along the sides, the New MINI Electric features a modernised side scuttle design that includes LED indicators and Electric-specific inserts.
Towards the rear, the previously Vigorous Grey tailgate handle is now swapped out for a sleek Black, while the rear bumper retains its original design language. The New MINI Electric continues to ride on 17-inch wheels in the MINI Electric Power Spoke two-tone with run flat tyres.
All thrill, no carbon footprint.
The New MINI Electric is powered by the highly powerful version of the synchronous electric motor developed by the BMW Group – a front-axle electric engine capable of 135kW/184HP, as well as a 12-module T-shaped battery unit with a net capacity of 28.9kWh. The New MINI Electric shares a peak torque of 270Nm with its predecessor, and emits zero carbon emissions locally while consuming 17.6 – 15.2kWh per 100km of travel. The electrified MINI offers a maximum speed of 150km/h and a driving range of up to 232km (WLTP). The New MINI Electric can also make the century sprint in 7.3 seconds.
The New MINI Electric continues to offer a range of charging capabilities, whether at home or at a public charging facilities. When recharging at a DC charging station, the New MINI Electric only requires approximately 36 minutes to go from zero to 80% charge. The MINI Wallbox Plus offers an 80% charge in just two and half hours, similar to recharging at a public AC charging station. The charging progress of the New MINI Electric can be viewed on the inside of the charging flap, at the Digital Instrument Cluster or via the MINI App
Modern, stylish, functional.
The New MINI Electric offers a revitalised interior design language with a new cockpit décor panel geometry that appears horizontally-stretched through enlarged décor trim. Drivers are also treated to a new steering wheel design with horizontal spokes and multi-function buttons that are integrated on an even surface with the Piano Black finish.
Other new features include the modernised inner and outer air vents that are integrated into the cockpit fascias, new ambient lighting in the form of light strips that highlight the interior geometry, as well as new door bezel décor in Piano Black, and the MINI Controller in black finishing as well.
The new black panel design for the centre instrument panel is also reflected in the 8.8-inch MINI Navigation System equipped with the full MINI Connected suite which includes new Concierge Services, on top of the standard Teleservices, Remote Services, Intelligent Emergency Call, MINI Online and Apple Carplay. The vehicle is also equipped with the MINI Head Up Display, and the impressive 12-Speaker 360-watt Harman Kardon Sound System.
Advanced connectivity features, audio and navigation features are also now available to the New MINI Electric with the Digital Instrument Cluster. It is capable of displaying key information on the charging status of the vehicle such as remaining time, percentage of charge, available range and also temperature outside the vehicle, along with the current MINI Driving Mode.
Digital intelligence, electrifying assistance.
The MINI eDrive, available as standard, is a state-of-the-art technological feature in the New MINI Electric – giving the vehicle intelligent digital services and functions for a hassle-free drive. The Green Driving Assistant (GDA) provides useful onboard functionalities, such as the Range Assistant that presents different solutions to the driver in case of insufficient battery, for greater peace of mind. It is able to suggest a more efficient route (Green Route), driving mode or the nearest charging station, so the driver can still arrive at their destination. The range circle also displays the range within the selected driving mode in the map.
Additionally, the new MINI App offers the New MINI Electric an advanced user experience that befits a digital lifestyle, allowing drivers to access their MINI at any time, whether to call up information on the vehicle’s status or to prepare for the next drive. The MINI App serves as a universal interface between the smartphone and the vehicle. Features include remote access to vehicle charging status and electric range, charging history, along with Remote Services to locate the vehicle and lock or unlock the doors, send navigational directions such as charging stations from a smartphone directly to the vehicle, as well as turning on the air conditioning system in the vehicle remotely.
Similar to the previous generation, the New MINI Electric is also equipped with the Driving Assistant system as standard. This camera-based driving assistance system package consists of the Speed Limit info, as well as the digital high-beam assistant. The system also intelligently features the person warning and approach control warning, both with light city braking function. The New MINI Electric is also equipped with the Park Assistant, front and rear Park Distance Control, and Cruise Control with braking function.
A new feature to the MINI family line-up and now also a standard across all new MINI models is the Lane Departure Warning that helps the driver stay safely on the chosen course at speeds between 70 and 210 km/h. To prevent unintentional lane departure, the system registers markings at the edge of the lane and alerts the driver if there is a risk of deviation by vibrating the steering wheel.
Exterior colour offerings of the New MINI Electric include the exclusive White Silver with Black Roof and Energetic Yellow Accents, the British Racing Green with Black Roof and Black Mirror Caps, and the Midnight Black with White Roof and Energetic Yellow Accents.
The New MINI Electric will be available at all authorised MINI dealerships nationwide from 2nd June 2021. However, in accordance with the latest Movement Control Order, dealerships will be closed for physical viewing and customers are encouraged to view the New MINI Electric online via the www.mini.my website. Customers may also contact their preferred dealers for further information.
The New MINI Electric is also available for online booking at RM1,000 via the MINI eShop platform at https://www.mini.my/en_MY/home/happenings/minionlineshop.html.
MINI Roadside Assistance.
The New MINI Electric is covered by MINI Malaysia’s 5 Years Roadside Assistance programme, available for all new MINI vehicles with a comprehensive list of services that include a 24-Hour, 365-days-a-year Accident and Help on the Phone and On the Spot Hotline, Free Towing Services and when needed (over 200KM from residential home), Replacement Vehicle, Seamless Mobility, Accommodation, Mobility Services Solutions as well as Repatriation services.
The MINI Roadside Assistance programme can be accessed by contacting 1800-88-8808.
MINI Service Online.
Making a service appointment has never been easier. The new online service programme will now allow customers to schedule their service needs directly at their preferred MINI Authorised Dealerships via www.service.mini.my.
MINI Financing.
With the Balloon Financing from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, ownership of the New MINI Electric starts from RM 2,418.00 per month (based on estimates of 80% loan on a five-year tenure).
The New MINI Electric arrives with the MINI 4 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty, 8 Years / 100,000KM High Voltage Battery Warranty with Free Scheduled Service. The recommended retail price with Sales and Services Tax Exemption (on the road, without insurance) is:
The New MINI Electric: RM 217,470.73
