Munich/Shanghai. This year's Auto Shanghai has plenty in store for MINI fans. From icons such as the MINI Cooper 3-Door and the Cooper 5-Door all the way to the newest member of the MINI family, the MINI Aceman, MINI enthusiasts can admire the full range of the brand's product portfolio from 23 April to 2 May.

This year’s focus is on the MINI John Cooper Works sub-brand. A racing-oriented area, entirely in red, imbues the high-performance segment with its unique dynamic. It unmistakably reflects the brand's motorsport DNA.

MINI John Cooper Works: Born on the racetrack, raised on the streets .
In its motor show appearance, MINI is particularly highlighting the new generation of John Cooper Works models. At the same time, it is honouring the brand's motorsport history. A classic Mini that was used in the legendary Monte Carlo Rally will be displayed in the highlight area. Additionally, the MINI John Cooper Works Pro, which won its class at the legendary 24 hours race on the Nürburgring last year, will be displayed.

John Cooper Works now also fully electric.
MINI is presenting the first two fully John Cooper Works models. With the MINI John Cooper Works Electric and the MINI John Cooper Works Aceman, racing enthusiasts now have the choice between two fully electric high-performance models for the first time. Through their powerful electric powertrains, they embody MINI's ongoing pursuit of performance and innovation. The electric boost function provides an additional 20kW of power, giving the models an especially high-performance drive.

MINI John Cooper Works Aceman. 
The MINI JCW Aceman combines electric high performance with creative use of space. The progressive design of the newest member of the MINI family transports the brand's core idea into the present: maximising the interior space within a minimum footprint, combined with an innovative drive concept.  The John Cooper Works variant of the MINI Aceman achieves a top speed of 200 km/h and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds. Visitors can once again interactively experience the MINI Experience Modes around the all-electric MINI John Cooper Works Aceman. The focus here is on the new John Cooper Works Mode, which exclusively transfers MINI's motorsport DNA into the JCW models.

The MINI John Cooper Works Electric and the MINI John Cooper Works Aceman models have not been confirmed for the South African market. 

The MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4: Sporty Performance meets thoughtful comfort.
The largest member of the John Cooper Works family, the MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 in traditional British Racing Green reminds of the brand's motorsport history and stands out with its impressive interior space. The generous rear-seat legroom in the model provides passengers in the back with ample space. The versatile luggage compartment creates more room for a sporty adventure.

Also on display: the MINI Cooper Convertible.
As the most emotional model in the MINI family, the MINI Cooper Convertible is celebrating its motor show premiere at Auto Shanghai 2025. The open four-seater embodies MINI's openness and is therefore fully in line with its 'Always Open' philosophy. Thanks to the powerful four-cylinder petrol engine and the open-top roof, the MINI Cooper Convertible S provides an unmistakable open-air driving experience.

At Auto Shanghai 2025, MINI fans also can take a look at the new MINI JCW Lifestyle Collection, which will be presented alongside a MINI JCW Countryman ALL4. The JCW Lifestyle Collection brings MINI's racing passion into everyday life.

Midrand.  The new MINI Aceman combines compact exterior dimensions with as much room as possible for occupants and an all-electric drive. The result is a contemporary interpretation of classic Mini inventor Sir Alec Issigonis’ underlying vision: maximum use of space with a minimum footprint combined with a modern drive concept. The progressive design of the new MINI Aceman provides space for five comfortable seats within a vehicle length of just over four metres. MINI draws on innovative technologies to enhance the interior with an immersive digital user experience, while the MINI Aceman’s all-electric drive gives a fresh boost to the characteristic MINI go-kart feeling. Combined with modern assistance systems and hallmark design, traditional brand values pave the way for an all-electric MINI future.

From the outside, the MINI Aceman embodies sporty agility and a self-assured presence. The vehicle architecture of the new crossover model is based on a fully electric drive concept.

Measuring just under four metres in length, the new MINI Aceman has five seats and a versatile luggage compartment with a load volume of 300 litres, while numerous adjustment options enable this capacity to be extended individually to as much as 1,005 litres. With a predicted range of up to 406 kilometres in the WLTP test cycle, the MINI Aceman is perfectly equipped for locally emission-free mobility beyond the city limits, too.

To read more about the all-electric MINI Aceman, please click:

https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Prices at launch:

Munich. Just in time for the Paris Motor Show from 14 October to 20 October, MINI is presenting two new top models. Both the MINI John Cooper Works Electric and the MINI John Cooper Works Aceman offer up to 190 kW, along with compelling acceleration and top speed figures to underline the claim to leadership in their vehicle class. The vehicle architecture of the all-electric MINI models is perfectly suited to the consistently performance-oriented characteristics of the John Cooper Works models. The MINI 3 door sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9* seconds, while the MINI John Cooper Works Aceman reaches 100 km/h from a standing start in 6.4* seconds. Both models have a top speed of 200* km/h and system torque of 350 Nm. The high-voltage batteries, each with an energy content of 54.2 kWh (gross), provide the MINI John Cooper Works Electric with a range of up to 371* kilometres determined in the WLTP test cycle and up to 355* kilometres for the MINI John Cooper Works Aceman.

"With the new all-electric MINI John Cooper Works models, we are bringing the legendary performance and driving dynamics of MINI into a completely new era. We are combining the tradition and character of the MINI brand with the latest technology to create a unique driving experience that will thrill our customers”, says Stefan Richmann, Head of MINI.

With the development of the new fully electric models, MINI John Cooper Works is following a long racing tradition. More than six decades ago, the sports car designer John Cooper developed an extremely sporty version of the classic Mini, which quickly achieved considerable success on racetracks and rally courses. Its legendary status was cemented by three overall victories at the Monte Carlo Rally in the 1960s. Most recently, a prototype based on the new MINI John Cooper Works demonstrated the brand's engineering prowess by winning its class at the Nürburgring 24-hour race.

Maximum performance thanks to innovative motorsport technology.
John Cooper Works transfers successful expertise from the racetrack to the road. In the all-electric models of the new MINI family, this includes an innovative electric boost function for impressive strong power delivery.
The driver activates the go-kart mode by pressing the boost paddle on the sport steering wheel. An additional 20 kW of electric power is then available for overtaking manoeuvres and performance-boosting acceleration. This provides unique high-acceleration driving fun.

John Cooper Works-specific suspension settings maximise the go-kart feeling and ensure agile handling. High performance, high grip tyres are standard on both models. A powerful braking system in Chili Red with white JCW logo ensures precise and safe deceleration even in demanding driving situations.

Emphasis on sporty design and optimised aerodynamics.
The focus on top performance is underlined on the outside by the particularly clear design language of the fully electric MINI John Cooper Works models. The red, white and black John Cooper Works logo is reminiscent of the chequered flag in motorsport and adorns the octagonal front grille in high-gloss black. As a welcome projection from the exterior mirrors, the illuminated logo greets the driver even before he gets into the car.

The daytime running lights of the MINI LED headlights feature horizontal bars in JCW Signature and enhance the expressive look of the performance-enhanced model. Black side skirts, aeroblades at the level of the C-pillar and the accentuated rear spoiler optimise the aerodynamics. Red vertical reflectors and diffusers contrast with the black rear apron.

A contrasting roof in Chili Red or a John Cooper Works-specific multi-tone roof with a red and black gradient can be used to enhance the sporty design. Aerodynamically optimised wheel designs are available exclusively for the all-electric MINI John Cooper Works Electric in 18-inch and in 19-inch size for the MINI John Cooper Works Aceman.

Racing-inspired interior.
The purist design of the interior echoes the JCW-specific colour scheme. A black and red pattern adorns the knitted surface of the dashboard. When the ambient lighting is switched on, the light graphics illuminate the panoramic roof as an exclusive feature. The JCW driver and front passenger seats are upholstered in black synthetic leather with multicoloured knitted fabric at the shoulders and red accent stitching.

The high-resolution OLED display with a diameter of 240 mm summarises all relevant vehicle data. The driver and front passenger can access air conditioning, media, phone and navigation settings via the central instrument. The new MINI Experience Modes allow the ambience in the interior to be customised.

Advanced assistance systems.
Innovative assistance systems in the new, all-electric John Cooper Works models also support the driver when not driving in sporty mode. Automatic speed and distance control make driving in everyday traffic situations even more comfortable. On the road, the MINI Navigation package optionally provides support with 3D visualisation and Augmented View displays the current traffic situation, provides information about parking options including digital payment options, and much more besides. Extensive assistance functions increase safety by supporting steering and lane keeping as part of the comprehensive Driving Assistant Plus package.

Parking Assistant Professional uses twelve ultrasonic sensors and four surround view cameras to detect suitable parking spaces and automatically initiate parking manoeuvres if required.

* Performance data provided is provisional.

Both the MINI John Cooper Works Electric and the MINI John Cooper Works Aceman are not yet confirmed for South Africa. 

Mr. Heilmer, when you joined MINI in 2017, how did you set about developing a vision to lead the models into the future?

Given that MINI is a very traditional brand, the question was: how do you evolve a brand like this into the future? To answer that, we went right back to the birth of the classic Mini to understand the spirit of Sir Alec Issigonis and derive from this where the MINI brand is heading in today’s context. The next step was to explore the essence of the original Mini together with our very diverse team and derive our own creative mindset. This was our foundation to develop an overall brand design vision to serve as a guiding principle in designing the new products.

What was your biggest challenge in developing a completely new design language?

The biggest challenge was and still is the profound engagement with the brand's strong history. The first MINI was an absolute disruption – but that is also part of the story. We could just say that MINI is disruption and let everything that happened before stay in the history books. But that would be to discard the heart of the brand. Instead, we now talk about independent characters – and the MINI Cooper immediately shone as the icon in our eyes. You get closer to the quintessential ethos of the original model: a powerful character, but with as few fancy frills as possible – “Charismatic Simplicity” expresses this.

What does the new MINI “Charismatic Simplicity” design language represent and how is this reflected in the new MINI Aceman?

It’s about strong characters and about each family member having their own individual place within the MINI family. For example, the MINI Aceman has a unique design language when viewed from the side, and a unique graphic for the wheel arch trims. It is compact, agile and exudes a determination to forge ahead. That is what highlights this charismatic aspect. At the same time, we have consciously kept away from superfluous stylistic elements. Our challenge was to define a distinctive character with as few design elements as possible.

How would you describe the MINI Aceman character?

The MINI Aceman is both a practical and expressive, unique companion in everyday life. It steps out into the world fresh and carefree and takes up its place at the centre of the MINI family. It is an independent character that can be quite ‘edgy’ and appeals to customers who – irrespective of their age – value individuality and distinctiveness in urban spaces.

The MINI Aceman is the first of its kind. What makes the MINI Aceman the signature vehicle for the urban environment?

The MINI Aceman fits perfectly into the urban environment as it reinterprets the classic MINI values in a modern, all-electric crossover format. It offers an elevated seating position that conveys a feeling of safety and a generous amount of space without losing the compactness and manoeuvrability that are the MINI hallmarks.

Where do you draw fresh inspiration to develop new MINI models?

Inspiration never happens by chance but comes from a regular and targeted exchange of views within our team, in which each member contributes their inspiring and fascinating experiences. One team member builds skateboards, for example, while another lived on a sailing boat for two years. I would say it is roughly split between direct and indirect inspiration. Indirect inspiration involves everything that fuels a spirit, which comes across in the materials we use as well as in the surfaces and the digital aspects. Direct inspiration is in the architecture or fashion, for example. However, creative debate within the team throughout is crucial.

How do new, sustainably produced materials influence the design process at MINI?

Our brand design vision is based on our “creative mindset”, which consists of four guiding values: heartbeat, curiosity, responsibility and daredevil. These values stand for our basic principles such as heritage, curiosity for the new, sustainability and the courage to stand out from the crowd. For us, sustainability and the responsible use of resources have nothing to do with compromise, but rather exploring new possibilities in our creative process. Instead of materials such as leather, we use alternative technologies that allow more design freedom and individualisation, for example through using patterns or two-tone colours. The 3D knit is an example of one of the central design elements inspired by the sneaker industry. We are also replacing elements: for example, chrome with our new Vibrant Silver colour for aesthetic reasons.

Which of the MINI Aceman design innovations are you particularly proud of?

Two things in particular, and they are both about size. The MINI Aceman is very compact because of its very short overhangs at the front and rear. Even so, the vehicle is extremely safe. This is the result of truly outstanding engineering work. But it’s not just the things you can see that make it special. I would also make particular mention of how the sense of space is brought throughout the interior to achieve maximum lightness.

Are there any hidden design element that you would only see on closer inspection?

The idea behind us hiding little Easter eggs was knowing that people love discovering surprises. Not always in plain sight, but a little further down the line. Digital innovation allows for this sort of playfulness: for example, the navigation arrow can be depicted as a small MINI, or a large spinning record can be displayed on the central interface. And that’s how Spike was born, an animal friend who has always been a loyal companion to the brand. This gave rise to the idea of offering a kind of digital companion. That’s how Spike got on board the MINI and now lives in the display, so to speak.

What direction do you want the MINI design to take in the future?

As a team, we believe that our “creative mindset” will remain just as relevant to us as a guiding principle for future products. At the same time, we will focus even more strongly on the value of responsibility. Curiosity and responsibility – these are the values that we are introducing into the minds of the next generation.

If there was a product outside the car segment that you could design – what would it be?

Many things come to mind, but if I had to choose one, I would say: a sailing boat. I’ve only been sailing maybe five times in my life, but I still have a fascination for open water and dealing with the natural forces that prevail there. I designed a trimaran together with a fellow student for my degree dissertation, with the question of whether it is possible to design “automotive” in an area of mobility that is not necessarily confined to the road – I believe that there is still enormous potential there.

Munich. Creative use of space – reinterpreted: MINI celebrates the premiere of the first crossover model for the premium small car segment. The new MINI Aceman combines compact exterior dimensions with as much room as possible for occupants and an all-electric drive. The result is a contemporary interpretation of classic Mini inventor Sir Alec Issigonis’ underlying vision: maximum utilisation of space with a minimum footprint combined with a modern drive concept. The progressive design of the new MINI Aceman provides space for five comfortable seats within a vehicle length of just over four metres. MINI draws on innovative technologies to enhance the interior with an immersive digital user experience, while the MINI Aceman’s all-electric drive gives a fresh boost to the characteristic MINI go-kart feeling. Combined with modern assistance systems and hallmark design, traditional brand values pave the way for an all-electric MINI future.

“The MINI Aceman brings a new level of excitement to our all-electric lineup, packed with a truly enjoyable immersive digital experience,” says Stefanie Wurst, Head of MINI. “The MINI Aceman is perfect for navigating crowded city streets, while maintaining the versatility and functionality of a Crossover and the Go Kart feeling you can expect from a MINI. I am certain that the sleek design, the performance, and the versatility as a 5-seater Crossover, will make the MINI Aceman a resounding success.”

From the outside, the MINI Aceman embodies sporty agility and a self-assured presence. The vehicle architecture of the new crossover model is based on a fully electric drive concept.

Measuring just under four metres in length, the new MINI Aceman has five seats and a versatile luggage compartment with a load volume of 300 litres, while numerous adjustment options enable this capacity to be extended individually to as much as 1,005 litres. With a predicted range of up to 406 kilometres in the WLTP test cycle, the MINI Aceman is perfectly equipped for locally emission-free mobility beyond the city limits, too.

New design style “Charismatic Simplicity”.
The entire new MINI family features a clear, reduced design, giving the various models a contemporary look that exudes effortless assurance. The minimalist design style of the MINI Aceman also powerfully conveys its progressive character.

“The MINI Aceman is a strong character with his own young personality within the new MINI family. It has an independent design language, is compact and looks agile. With its distinctive expression, it is the perfect everyday companion for those who value individuality in urban areas.” emphasizes Oliver Heilmer, Head of MINI Design

The exterior.
Expressive crossover with compact proportions.
With its striking front-end, robust contours and athletic stance, the sporty MINI crossover model epitomises agility and self-assured presence. Measuring 4.07 metres in length, 1.75 metres in width and 1.50 metres in height, the MINI Aceman is positioned between the MINI Cooper and the MINI Countryman.

Featuring a streamlined front, short overhangs and the functional two-box design, the brand’s hallmark “Clever Use of Space” design principle has been given a new, distinctive character, while the all-electric drive opens up a whole range of fresh possibilities in terms of vehicle design. Creative space utilisation ensures the new MINI Aceman is agile and nimble in urban traffic while at the same time providing ample room for occupants.

Continuous surfaces give centre stage to the expressive and elegant colours of the body. The versatile and adventurous character of the MINI Aceman is emphasised by the standard roof rails, visually accentuated wheels in sizes from 17” to 19”, and underride protection at the front, rear and sides of the vehicle.

Modern front-end design with striking LED headlights.
The front-end design of the MINI Aceman conveys a powerful presence, reinterpreting typical MINI design elements such as the expressive headlights and the characteristic front grille. Its remodelled, octagonal shape builds on the traditional underlying theme of the hexagon. The grille surround in the MINI Aceman extends into the solid underride protection on the front apron. In the new Vibrant Silver finish or in high-gloss Jet Black, the front grille sets highly contrasting accents, helping to make the crossover model instantly identifiable.

With their individual design, the car’s angular LED headlights also lend emphasis to the distinctive standing of the MINI Aceman within the MINI model family. Their shape is perpetuated in the clarity of the bonnet design with its precise lines, giving the front of the vehicle its distinctive character. The daytime running light elements of the LED headlights can be switched to three different modes, underpinning the expressive character of this new MINI family member.

Distinctive body design with eye-catching details.
The surface design of the MINI Aceman contributes to the clarity and freshness of the new model’s aesthetic style. Tautly stretched body surfaces are accentuated by precise lines and robust angles. While making a progressive statement, this eye-catching styling of the MINI Aceman also forges a link to the brand’s history, enabling it to be instantly identified as a MINI.

The classic tripartite division of body, surrounding window graphics and roof has been reinterpreted. In keeping with idea of reducing everything to the essentials, a flush transition between the vehicle body and glass surfaces optimises the car’s aerodynamic properties. Flat integrated door openers emphasise the progressive expression of the MINI Aceman, while diagonal contours in the body below the A-pillars echo the weld crease of the classic Mini models in the front area of the side panels. Harmonious surfaces and horizontal lines between the wheel arches create an intriguing waistline, giving the vehicle body its unmistakable dynamic flair. The strikingly shaped wheel arches with their long rearward sweep and relatively steep downturn are an entirely unique feature of the MINI Aceman within the MINI Family. Sills in matt black round off the design of the side view towards the road, and their shape is carried on into the door area, giving the vehicle body a slim, upright and athletic appearance.

The rear of the vehicle reflects clarity of design, featuring large horizontal surfaces that emphasise the vehicle’s broad and stable stance. The aerodynamically bevelled and retracted rear window ensures a pronounced, powerful shoulder section, an effect that is further emphasised by the elongated roof spoiler. The hallmark MINI upright rear lights frame the centre section of the rear of the vehicle. With three distinctive graphics, the Matrix rear lights bear out the character of the MINI Aceman in differing ways. A wide, dark surround at the lower edge of the rear apron and the underride protection element integrated in the centre make for sporty proportions, thereby conveying the crossover model’s versatile characteristics.

Expressive body finishes and three individual trims .
The subtle three-dimensional quality of the body surfaces is stylishly highlighted by means of expressive colours. Shadows cast by the accentuated bodywork can be perceived to varying degrees, depending on the incidence of light and perspective. In combination with four contrasting finishes for the roof in hallmark MINI style, this conveys the expressive character of the MINI Aceman with particular clarity.

The MINI Aceman is available in three different trims in South Africa. An oblong-shaped badge in the design of the respective equipment variant is attached to the front area of the side sill, highlighting certain functional parts such as the logo in the new Vibrant Silver finish. In Classic Trim, the contrasting roof and exterior mirrors can be selected in black or white. The front grille is finished in high-gloss black, while the inner surface of the grille and the bumper are finished in body colour.

The Favoured Trim extends the individual expressive capabilities of the MINI Aceman to include the option of the characteristic Multitone Roof, combined with white mirror caps and a grille frame in Vibrant Silver. The maximum sporty flair of the new crossover model is particularly evident in the JCW Trim. This equipment variant inspired by motorsports has its very own distinctive front and rear design. The front grille is featuring a frame and the variant-specific JCW logo in high-gloss black, while a contrasting roof in Chili Red and red bonnet stripes underline the powerful overall appearance. Meanwhile the rear sculpture is much more muscular in shape and the all-round panelling is finished in high-gloss black.

Various aerodynamic wheel rim designs in sizes between 17 inches and 19 inches further complement the exterior equipment options available for the MINI Aceman.

The interior.
Purist design and wide-ranging material concept.
The new MINI design style “Charismatic Simplicity” is expressed particularly clearly in the interior. With its consistent reduction in terms of interior design, the MINI Aceman follows the original vision of Alec Issigonis, the inventor of the classic Mini. With its easy-to-handle steering wheel, a central OLED display and the remodelled hallmark toggle bar, the cockpit echoes three key design elements of the classic Mini. By means of this contemporary styling in the entirely new crossover model, MINI transports the history of the brand into the here and now.

Spacious door interiors along with comfortable dimensions in the shoulder area and convenient legroom give the bright cockpit an open and amply proportioned atmosphere, while the panoramic glass roof enhances this effect by providing additional light from above. In the dark, the ambient lighting along the roof frame creates the selected lighting mood in the interior. The free-standing door handles and the speaker covers in the new Vibrant Silver finish are aligned diagonally and create a fascinating contrast with the horizontal design in the front area of the cockpit.

The gentle, rounded design style of the interior is further reflected in the curved surfaces of the dashboard: the latter’s surface is covered with a knitted material in which the lower colour shines through the upper one. This gives the interior a homely character with starkly accentuated colour contrasts. Extending to the interior door trim, the easy-care, versatile structure is made of recycled polyester. Rounding off the high-quality fittings in the cockpit are comfortable seats, optionally featuring a textile surface or made of perforated Vescin.

The amply sized rear of the vehicle offers space for three passengers. Thanks to the 60:40 folding rear seat backrest, the luggage compartment can be extended from 300 litres to up to 1,005 litres as required.

High-resolution OLED display for contemporary ride comfort.
With innovative technologies, the circular OLED display lends the interior additional expressive quality. With a diameter of 240 mm, the central instrument features an extremely flat design and a high-quality glass surface. The innovative MINI Operating System 9 enables all driving functions to be operated intuitively by touch or voice. A centre for both comfort and experience, the MINI Interaction Unit is handled in a similar way to a smartphone.

The graphic presentation of the vehicle-related data is contemporary and minimalistic in style, with the speed and battery status shown prominently at the top of the display, directly in the driver’s field of vision. Tapping the speed display opens a large full-screen speedometer that clearly focuses on the driving experience. The other widgets are shown in thumbnail view in the Home menu, to the left and right of the current menu function. These can be moved to the centre and selected by means of a horizontal swiping movement. In the lower area of the OLED display, the menu items Navigation, Media, Telephone and Climate can be selected directly at any time.

MINI Experience Modes enhance the driving experience.
The emotional MINI Experience Modes enhance the interior with immersive user experiences. In the MINI Aceman, two projector units beam special illuminated graphics onto the dashboard with differing patterns and colours. Changes are made to the colour scheme of the light patterns and to the ambient lighting in the entire interior depending on the Experience Mode selected. The newly created MINI Driving Sounds enhance the experience of all-electric mobility. Together with specific graphic elements on the OLED display, vehicle occupants enjoy an entirely new driving experience in the interior of the MINI Aceman.

Among the eight modes available for selection, Personal Mode offers innovative options for customising the cockpit. In this mode, a personally selected image can be uploaded from a smartphone via the MINI app and chosen as the display background. A digital colour picker then identifies the dominant colours of the photo for projection onto the textile dashboard surfaces. The ambient lighting under the dashboard and in the door mirror is also colour-coded to match these projections.

The other modes available for selection are Go-Kart Mode, Vivid Mode, Core Mode, Green Mode, Timeless Mode, Balance Mode and Trail Mode, each of which focusses the display on a “Mode App” to match the ambience. In Go-Kart Mode there is a highly dynamic focus on MINI’s racing DNA, for example. The display and the interior as a whole then feature the colours anthracite and red, while specific analogue displays for driving dynamics complement this MINI Experience Mode inspired by John Cooper Works.

Typical MINI: historic toggle bar in a new design.
In the classic Mini, the feel of the toggle bar at the centre of the cockpit enhanced the emotional connection between driver and vehicle. MINI also draws on this characteristic equipment detail to transport brand history into the latest of its models. The most important driving functions (parking brake, gear selector, start/stop key, experience mode toggle, volume control) are directly accessible in the MINI Aceman via five individually designed toggles. This means that no additional gear selector is required, making room for practical and spacious storage options in the centre console. In addition to the cup holders, there is an additional tray for wirelessly charging smartphones.

Three individual equipment options. 
All the models of the new MINI family feature three trims with individual customisation options, each conveying the contemporary feel-good concept in the interior of the MINI Aceman in a different way.

From the Classic trim upwards, the two-spoke basic steering wheel is replaced by a three-spoke steering wheel with a textile band in differing colours. In addition, the equipment variant with a black and blue knitted surface on the dashboard and doors provides a diversified contrast to the seats in high-quality fabric or Vescin.

In the Favoured Trim, the interior features a strikingly expressive design. The dashboard comes in the elegant Dark Petrol, complemented by an accentuated colour gradient in orange on the passenger side. The dynamic appearance is further reflected in the sports seats made of perforated Vescin. These are available with traditional accent stitching and an embroidered MINI logo in two colours. The JCW Trim presents the versatile material concept of the MINI Aceman in maximum sporty style. The JCW seat with sports seat geometry and additional lateral support noticeably enhances comfort. Combined with multi-coloured knitted textile and black synthetic leather with red stitching, the colour concept echoes the design of the dashboard and door trim.

Digital services.
Simplified communication with the first MINI voice assistant.
The brand’s first fully-fledged voice assistant can be activated in the MINI Aceman by saying “Hey MINI!”. Alternatively, the push-to-talk steering wheel button is also available for this purpose. Voice-controlled interaction is visualised on the circular OLED display by means of an animation of graphic elements, typography and an avatar. Communication with the virtual travel partner – either a stylised MINI or the character “Spike” – is particularly fluent and intuitive thanks to improved speech recognition. Navigation, telephony, entertainment and numerous vehicle functions can be controlled simply and conveniently by speaking the relevant command.

The MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant learns continuously through dialogue and is able to take on day-to-day tasks on repeated routes. Based on geo-based data, for example, the vehicle can identify the entrance to a multi-storey car park and automatically open the window. This means that individual routines can be handled more conveniently.

Advanced assistance systems increase safety.
Driving Assistant Plus provides the MINI Aceman with an additional steering and lane assistant for lateral guidance. Convenient and cooperative steering helps the driver stay on track. The increased comfort offered by the system combines relaxed and superior control of the vehicle while relieving the driver of the monotonous and less demanding aspects of driving. The clear-cut appearance of the displays, operating elements and easy-to-understand functional features result in a high degree of system security. The new Trailer Assistant helps when manoeuvring into a parking space with a trailer as standard, also offering advice on the required steering wheel angle when reversing.

Thanks to twelve ultrasonic sensors and four Surround View cameras, the MINI Aceman is able to identify vacant parking spaces with greater precision, automatically initiating parking manoeuvres where space is limited, while the new Remote Parking function of the optional Parking Assistant Pro enables the vehicle to be parked using a smartphone. This function allows the MINI Aceman to be driven out of a parking space automatically, making it easier to get into the vehicle if space to the side is too limited.

The innovative MINI Digital Key Plus option likewise utilises the user’s smartphone to ensure a convenient and personalised vehicle experience, transforming the smartphone into a vehicle key. The front and rear lights start the welcome projection as soon as the driver is less than three metres away, and the doors unlock automatically. Replacing the conventional vehicle key, the digital key can be transferred to several users.

Convenient connectivity and intuitive interaction.
The modern aesthetics of the digital user interface in the MINI Aceman combine functional and emotional elements. Its minimalist design adapts the new graphics to the circular shape of the MINI Interaction Unit, simplifying operation by means of a clear structure. Static and dynamic elements combined with micro-animations ensure that the interaction between the driver and the central instrument is harmonious and intuitive. This emphatically digital character of the MINI Aceman is enabled by the MINI Operating System 9.

At the centre of the screen is the start menu, while at the bottom of the screen the fixed status bar can be seen with the menu items “Navigation”, “Media”, “Telephony”, “All Apps” and, in certain situations, “Home” – all of which can be selected directly. As customers are used to from numerous consumer electronics devices, a so-called toolbelt can be made to appear by swiping upwards from the bottom edge of the screen. Preferred functions such as navigation destinations and radio stations can be saved for quick retrieval at any time. The toolbelt can also be activated via the star button on the multifunction steering wheel. The upper screen area is reserved for driving-related content such as speed and important vehicle status information. The optional head-up display presents the most important information in the driver’s line of sight.

The temperature is shown permanently for the driver and front passenger at the left and right-hand edge of the screen. The climate settings are always integrated at the top level of the MINI Interaction Unit and are operated by either touch or voice. Depending on the Experience Mode, a single tap on the speed display transforms the entire MINI Interaction Unit into a typical MINI speedometer.

MINI Connected upgrades allow additional driving functions to be activated flexibly at any time, including an optional augmented reality function that can visualise complicated turning situations realistically and in three-dimensional display, for example. In conjunction with the optionally available MINI Connected Package, the digital MINI Connected Store provides access to a constantly evolving variety of practical and entertaining apps, including in the area of gaming and music.

The drive.
All-electric and efficient.
The MINI Aceman is available solely with an all-electric drive, enabling locally emission-free mobility. The efficient electric motor ensures hallmark MINI driving fun both in urban areas and on excursions beyond the city limits. At market launch, the new MINI Aceman will be available in the MINI Aceman E (electricity consumption combined: 14,7 – 14,1 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km; CO2-class: A; Range in km according to WLTP: 298 - 310) version and also as the MINI Aceman SE (electricity consumption combined: 14,8 – 13,9 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km; CO2-class: A; Range in km according to WLTP: 382 – 406) with increased output. 

The 135 kW/184 hp electric motor of the MINI Aceman E generates a torque of 290 Nm, accelerating the car from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and reaching a top speed of 160 km/h. With an output of 160 kW/218 hp, the MINI Aceman SE generates a torque of 330 Nm, enabling the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 170 km/h.

With an energy content of 42.5 kWh, the battery of the MINI Aceman E achieves a range of 310 kilometres in the WLTP test cycle. The high-voltage battery of the MINI Aceman SE has an energy content of 54.2 kWh, giving it a range of 406 kilometres according to the WLTP.

Sporty agility and outstanding driving dynamics.
Its chassis gives the new MINI Aceman a sporty character, and this is also reflected in the driving fun that is typical of the brand. The tyres with a diameter of 654 mm give the vehicle a more powerful visual presence, enhancing driving dynamics and ride comfort in equal measure. The Aceman is equipped with a precise damping system that features highly prestressed stabilisers: these improve steering precision and accuracy while at the same time ensuring sound roll support. The precise adjustment of the steering and all driving stability control systems to either comfortable or sporty driving guarantees an exceptional driving experience in every situation. The response of the electric drive to pressure on the accelerator pedal is optimised for a sporty driving style.

Meanwhile, agile and dynamic handling is emphasised by the direct steering, with a rack ratio of 59.5 mm rack travel per turn of the steering wheel. Combined with a short and firm feel when braking, the integrated braking system increases ride comfort by means of reliable stabilisation. In conjunction with the numerous driver assistance systems, short braking distances increase safety.

The MINI Experience Modes with various suspension set-ups are available for a customised driving experience, while driving fun can be intensified by adjusting the steering response and also specially calibrated intervention limits for the traction control.

Quick and easy: charging the battery.
The battery of the MINI Aceman can be charged via alternating current with 11 kW. Fast charging with direct current is possible in the MINI Aceman E with 75 kW and in the Aceman SE with up to 95 kW. At a fast charging station, this allows the battery to be charged from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in just under 30 minutes. When MINI Navigation is activated, the high-voltage battery can be set to the ideal temperature for efficient charging in advance, depending on weather conditions. This significantly reduces charging time, especially in cold outdoor temperatures.

For a transparent and simple charging process, the customer can optimise vehicle battery charging by means of easy-to-understand setting options. The start time for charging can be selected or a specific time window for charging can be set, for example. A precise target level for battery capacity can be determined in advance, too. For a particularly pleasant start, charging can be set to be completed by a selected departure time, and the vehicle interior can be air-conditioned to the desired temperature by this time. The MINI App provides a convenient overview of the charging process, even if the customer is not near the vehicle. This provides details of the current battery status, a charging-optimised route plan, and charging history to date – including all costs and savings.

Munich. On its way to series production, the new model currently must prove itself under extremely high temperatures on sandy desert roads.With an length of 4,075 mm, a width of 1,754 mm and a height of 1,495 mm, the MINI Aceman occupies the position between the MINI Cooper and the MINI Countryman. The third stand-alone model in the new all-electric MINI family is equipped with four doors and a large tailgate. Its interior can accommodate five passengers.

“The all-electric MINI Aceman opens new opportunities for customers who want a smaller crossover than our successful MINI Countryman. The consistent electrification of our product portfolio makes a clear statement about the future of the MINI brand,” says Stefanie Wurst, head of MINI.

Tested under extreme conditions.

After the MINI Aceman has already successfully completed tests at the Arctic Circle, the crossover model is completing final testing in the desert in strong sunlight and heat. In addition to classic features such as driving dynamics and driving comfort, the test team is focusing on the demanding aspects of an electric vehicle. For this purpose, the air conditioning, charging and cooling of the battery, drive and control devices are intensively tested at up to 50° Celsius in dusty desert sand.                                                                           

Fully electric and efficient.

The new MINI Aceman will only be available fully electric. Its battery size is 54.2 kWh. Thanks to the purely electric drive concept, the agile MINI crossover takes up little space on the road and offers a high level of comfort and versatility. The design of the newly developed model is in line with the brand's basic principle: plenty of interior space with the smallest possible external dimensions, agile driving characteristics and efficiency. Behind this is the functional two-box design with short overhangs. This creates maximum space for five passengers and luggage on a minimal floor space.