Mini showcased its revamped Cooper hatch and Countryman models at the 2023 Munich auto show, with a noteworthy focus on electrification. The new Cooper model was unveiled in an electric variant, alongside plans for a gasoline-powered iteration. Notably, the electric version boasts a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) platform and is currently manufactured in China. This geographical origin presents a significant challenge for the U.S. market, as it would incur a substantial 27.5% tariff upon importation.
Consequently, Mini does not intend to introduce the electric Cooper to the U.S. market in the immediate future. A similar scenario is anticipated for the Aceman, a compact electric crossover positioned below the Countryman, which is still undergoing testing. In contrast, the new Countryman is produced in Germany, available in both electric and gasoline configurations. This German production alleviates the burden of steep tariffs associated with vehicles manufactured in China. While Mini has not officially confirmed a U.S. release date for the new Countryman, it is expected to arrive as a 2025 model, possibly in the coming year.
Michael Peyton, vice president of Mini of the Americas, hinted at Mini’s strategy to bring the electric Cooper and Aceman to the U.S., with further details set to be disclosed in the fourth quarter. He emphasized the importance of achieving competitive pricing and a viable business model for both Mini and its dealerships.
Addressing the tariff-related challenges, Peyton mentioned Mini’s consideration of production options outside of China, with North America emerging as a potential candidate. The existing manufacturing facilities of Mini’s parent company, the BMW Group, in the United States and Mexico, offer intriguing prospects for producing Mini vehicles. Moreover, the recently enacted Inflation Reduction Act provides incentives to automakers for manufacturing electric vehicles (EVs) within North America, including a generous $7,500 tax credit for purchasers of locally assembled models.
Furthermore, Automotive News reported the possibility of utilizing Mini’s U.K. plant for initial production of electric Mini models. This facility is expected to be the manufacturing hub for the forthcoming gasoline-powered Cooper, which will employ an updated platform derived from the outgoing hatchback model.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Electric Mini Models
What models did Mini unveil at the 2023 Munich auto show?
Mini introduced the redesigned Cooper hatch and the updated Countryman.
Is there an electric version of the Mini Cooper?
Yes, Mini showcased an electric version of the Cooper at the event, alongside plans for a gasoline-powered variant.
Why won’t Mini initially offer the electric Cooper in the U.S.?
The electric Cooper is manufactured in China, subjecting it to a 27.5% tariff upon importation to the U.S., making it economically challenging for the market.
What about the Aceman model?
Similar to the electric Cooper, Mini is still in the testing phase for the Aceman, and it also may not be introduced to the U.S. market initially.
Where is the new Countryman produced?
The new Countryman is manufactured in Germany, available in both electric and gasoline versions, allowing it to avoid the high tariffs associated with Chinese-built vehicles.
When can we expect the new Countryman in the U.S.?
Although not officially confirmed, it is likely to arrive as a 2025 model, possibly in the coming year.
What are Mini’s plans for bringing electric Cooper and Aceman models to the U.S.?
Mini’s Michael Peyton mentioned plans to bring these electric models to the U.S., with more details expected in the fourth quarter.
Mini is considering production options outside of China, with North America as a potential location due to existing BMW Group manufacturing facilities.
What incentives exist for EV manufacturing in North America?
The Inflation Reduction Act provides incentives for automakers, including a $7,500 tax credit for buyers of locally made EV models.
Where could the electric Mini models potentially be produced?
There are discussions about using Mini’s U.K. plant for initial production, which is set to manufacture the gasoline-powered Cooper.
More about Electric Mini Models
- Mini Official Website
- Automotive News Article – For additional details on Mini’s plans and Michael Peyton’s interview.
- 2023 Munich Auto Show – The official website for the event where Mini unveiled their new models.
3 comments
Mini’s U.K. plant might build electrics? Tax creds for EVs good 4 buyers!
Can’t wait for eCountryman, hope it’s soon. Michael Peyton spillin’ the beans.
Wow, minis goin’ electric?! Crazy tariffs, tho. U.S. waitin’ for eCooper and Aceman, hmm.