Mini has been preparing to unveil the next generation of their iconic Mini Cooper hatch, scheduled for release as a 2025 model. Recently, a test prototype of the high-performance John Cooper Works (JCW) variant was spotted undergoing testing.
However, this particular JCW prototype comes with a notable difference—it doesn’t house a traditional gasoline engine. Instead, Mini has been diligently working on an electric powertrain for this model since at least 2020.
Overview of the Mini Cooper:
The telltale signs of the upcoming Cooper include a sealed-off grille and the absence of exhaust tips.
The new Cooper will offer customers a choice between gas and electric powertrains. While the gasoline version will utilize an updated platform from the current generation, the electric variant will employ a dedicated EV platform developed in China through a collaboration between Mini’s parent company, the BMW Group, and Chinese automaker Great Wall Motors’ joint venture known as Spotlight Automotive.
Production of the electric version will take place in China, while the gasoline version will be manufactured in the United Kingdom.
The 2025 Mini Cooper:
Mini recently confirmed that the electric version will be available in two grades: Cooper E and Cooper SE. The Cooper E will be equipped with a 40.7-kWh battery and a single electric motor generating 181 hp. On the other hand, the Cooper SE will feature a 54.2-kWh battery and a single electric motor producing 215 hp.
The electric JCW is expected to combine the 54.2-kWh battery with an electric motor rated at 300 hp or more. In comparison, the current JCW hatch, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine, generates 228 hp in its standard version and 301 hp in the limited-edition JCW GP.
As we approach the launch of the electric JCW, which is likely to occur towards the end of 2024, more details about its specifications will become available.
Despite the introduction of an electric JCW, Mini is not ready to abandon gasoline engines for its high-performance offerings just yet. It is anticipated that a JCW version of the redesigned 2025 Countryman will continue to rely on an internal combustion engine, although electric powertrain options will also be offered for the new Countryman.
However, one feature that might not carry forward is the manual transmission. Rumors suggest that the limited-edition 2024 JCW 1to6 Edition, launched in May, might be the last new Mini to offer the beloved third pedal.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mini Cooper electric JCW
What is the release date for the 2025 Mini John Cooper Works EV?
The release date for the 2025 Mini John Cooper Works EV has not been specifically mentioned in the given text. However, it is stated that the electric JCW’s launch is expected to take place toward the end of 2024, indicating that it will likely be available for purchase in 2025.
What type of powertrain does the Mini John Cooper Works EV have?
The Mini John Cooper Works EV features an electric powertrain. Instead of a traditional gasoline engine, it is equipped with an electric motor and a battery pack.
Where will the electric version of the Mini Cooper be produced?
The production of the electric version of the Mini Cooper will be handled in China. It is being manufactured through a joint venture called Spotlight Automotive, which involves Mini’s parent company, the BMW Group, and the Chinese automaker Great Wall Motors.
Will the Mini Cooper electric JCW offer different power options?
Yes, the Mini Cooper electric JCW is expected to offer different power options. The Cooper E grade will come with a 40.7-kWh battery and a single electric motor generating 181 horsepower, while the Cooper SE grade will feature a 54.2-kWh battery and a single electric motor producing 215 horsepower. The electric JCW is likely to have a more powerful electric motor, potentially rated at 300 horsepower or more.
Will Mini completely transition to electric powertrains for their high-performance offerings?
While Mini is introducing an electric JCW model, they are not likely to abandon gas engines for their high-performance offerings entirely. It is mentioned that a JCW version of the redesigned 2025 Countryman will likely continue to utilize an internal combustion engine. However, Mini will also offer electric powertrain options for the new Countryman.
Will future Mini models continue to have manual transmissions?
According to rumors, the limited-edition 2024 JCW 1to6 Edition is speculated to be the last new Mini model to feature a manual transmission. It suggests that manual transmissions might not be offered in future Mini models, including the electric JCW.