Electric Mini Countryman production to start this year in Germany
The third generation of the Mini Countryman is on its way and there are some big changes. First of all, it is a relatively large vehicle, it shares a platform and dimensions with the BMW X1, or in the case of the all-electric Countryman - the BMW iX1. For the first time, we’ll have an electric SUV from Mini and for the first time, the Mini will be manufactured in Germany.
The largest ever Mini is nearly 4.43 meters long, still 32 cm shorter than the Tesla Model Y. The new generation Countryman is 13 cm longer than its predecessor and 6 cm taller. There is plenty of room for a family and their weekend-away luggage.
There will be two powertrains available once Mini Countryman goes on sale. The Countryman E will come with a 191 hp (140 kW) electric motor powering the front wheels. The Countryman SE will come with the SE ALL4 powertrain - that’s two electric motors powering all four wheels with 230 kW or 313 hp. That is the same powertrain we have in the BMW iX1 xDrive30.
Mini shares its battery with the BMW iX1 as well, the 64.7 kWh unit supports fast DC charging at up to 130 kW and the company estimates it will give the car a range of up to 450 km. BMW iX1 gets a WLTP rating of 440 km so any difference between the two siblings will be down to better aerodynamics.
According to the company, there are two more versions on the way. There will be a mildly warmer S version which will be followed by a seriously hot John Cooper Works vehicle. The most powerful Mini to come from JCW was the GP model with 301 hp which the new Countryman SE already beats hands down - will we see the first ever 400 hp Mini?
The production is planned to start this coming November in Leipzig, Germany, at the BMW Group plant already churning out the iX1 vehicles. The sales will begin in February 2024, shortly after the new Mini Cooper hatchback goes on sale.
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