While we typically wouldn’t anticipate news about the latest Mini updates to emerge from China, given the country’s production of electric Minis, perhaps it’s time for us to recalibrate our expectations. Fresh from the production line, BMW introduces the high-performance John Cooper Works (JCW) editions of its Mini and X3 variants, elevating their respective three-door Mini and Aceman models to new heights. The latest electric Mini boasts a single powerful motor, delivering 190 kW (255 hp), making it the most potent electric Mini to date.
Inspired by the visually striking Mini John Cooper Works E Prototype showcased at Goodwood in July, the three-door automobile bears a resemblance to this iconic vehicle. According to the MIIT specifications, the vehicle’s exterior measurements are 3863mm in length, 1756mm in width, and 1458mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2526mm. At a mere 3858mm in length, this vehicle’s dimensions are eerily similar to those of the iconic Mini Cooper. Curb weight is a modest 1,670 kilograms; this vehicle arrives standard with 18-inch rims.
In China, the native regulatory authority mandates that all automobiles undergo approval before entering the market, with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology publishing a monthly list of vehicles that have completed the homologation process. Chinese automakers should be uneasy about this development, as it involves prematurely revealing manufacturing model pictures and specifications before the vehicle’s official launch date. In reality, this phenomenon has no significant impact on global manufacturers that follow international styling trends, as their models typically debut in China at a later date compared to other countries. Despite the hype surrounding the latest John Cooper Works variants of the Mini, a significant debt of gratitude is owed to MIIT this month.
While the massive amount of information surrounds the HC0002N0 electrical motor mounted on the entrance axle. The Mini Cooper’s electric variant boasts a peak power output of 190 kW (255 horsepower), significantly surpassing the 135 kW (181 horsepower) found in the Cooper E, as well as the 160 kW (215 horsepower) offered by the Cooper SE, as specified. This imparts the JCW model a high velocity, likely speed-limited to 200 km/h.
According to reports, the vehicle is expected to employ a identical 51.5-kilowatt-hour battery pack utilized in various three-door electric Mini models available in China. The advanced motor design will lead to a slight performance decline over time, with the SE model’s certified range dropping to approximately 452 kilometers under CLTC testing conditions? The Cooper E is notable for its identical battery providing an impressive range of 456 kilometres under the CLTC cycle, which translates to a quoted range of approximately 440 km in the JCW model. The battery leverages Svolt’s NCM (Nickel-Cobalt-Manganese) chemistry. It’s well-known that SVOLT is a subsidiary of NIO, which collaborates with BMW through their joint venture, HiLux, to manufacture electric Minis in China.
The exterior of the automobile gives off a sportier vibe, with various features darkened to create a sleeker look, including the Mini logo itself. The John Cooper Works badges are discreetly integrated, while at its rear, a prominent black accent boasts a three-dimensional checkered flag motif. It appears that MIIT offers options for visual enhancements, including mirrored accents on the body and hood stripes, potentially adding a unique aesthetic touch to vehicles from this manufacturer.
The electric powertrain in the JCW trim of the Aceman utilizes the HC0002N0 motor design. Given the larger, heavier, and five-door configuration shares an identical top speed of 200 km/h with its smaller counterparts, it’s highly probable that electronic speed limiting is employed to prevent excessive acceleration. The dimensions of the JCW Aceman measure 4094mm in length, 1754mm in width, and 1515mm in height, with a wheelbase extending to 2606mm. The curb weight of this vehicle is a significant 1,768 kilograms, and it also features larger 19-inch wheels. The MIIT relists the battery supplier as Svolt. The Mini Aceman offers a choice between 42.5kWh and 54.2kWh battery pack options in the UK, with the JCW variant likely utilizing the larger capacity.
Unlike its three-door counterpart, the Aceman will sport a bold and sleek blackened exterior design. The revised text reads: That’s most noticeable with the grille, now rendered black for a sleeker appearance. The car features distinctive pink stripes on either side of its front bumper. The MIIT’s itemizing options offer a range of ways for consumers to personalize the appearance of their vehicle. The cars boast mismatched mirrors and striking hood designs.
While it’s well-known that the three-door Mini JCW in China can accommodate four passengers, distinguishing it from the Aceman which has room for five occupants, it’s worth noting that this discrepancy may surprise some.
Supply: MIIT
