Mini Aceman Details of five-door electric crossover

In a strategic move towards market leadership, MINI is gearing up to launch its highly anticipated five-door electric crossover, the ACEMAN. Set to be unveiled later this year, this new addition to MINI's lineup is poised to become the brand's best-selling model. Boasting a stretched version of the supermini's Spotlight architecture, the ACEMAN offers a unique appeal, being 192mm longer, 23mm wider, and 130mm taller than its counterpart, the Cooper.

MINI ACEMAN ELECTRIC CROSSOVER AIMS FOR MARKET DOMINANCE

Under the hood, the ACEMAN packs a punch with a single electric motor at the front axle, delivering impressive outputs of either 181bhp or 215bhp. The entry-level variant accelerates from 0-62mph in just 7.3 seconds, while the more powerful motor shortens this sprint time to 6.7 seconds. Notably, the ACEMAN shares similar sprint times with the Cooper, ensuring an exhilarating driving experience.

To cater to diverse preferences, two battery pack options are available, corresponding to the motor's output. The 181bhp variant comes equipped with a 40kWh pack, while the 215bhp model features a larger 54kWh unit. These battery configurations result in official WLTP ranges of 188 miles and 248 miles, respectively. Charging rates, while competitive at 95kW, position the ACEMAN among formidable rivals like the Jeep Avenger and Renault Mégane.

Following the success of the Cooper and Countryman EVs, the ACEMAN is set to introduce a high-performance JCW (John Cooper Works) range-topper in 2026. While maintaining the existing powertrain, MINI plans to enhance the driving dynamics of its hot EVs, focusing on factors like low center of gravity and 50:50 weight balance.

Unlike the Cooper, the ACEMAN will be exclusively available as a five-door EV, emphasizing practicality with five seats and increased storage options. Retaining the distinctive design elements seen in the 2022 concept, such as sharp-angled daytime-running lights and Union Jack-pattern tail-lights, the ACEMAN embodies a stylish and functional lifestyle.

Inside, the ACEMAN boasts MINI's new round touchscreen, featuring a circular OLED touch interface – a first in production cars. The dashboard, featuring knitted-textile elements, signals a departure from traditional materials like chrome and leather. Deliveries are set to commence by the end of the year, with initial production taking place in China before moving to the historic Oxford plant in 2026, following a significant £600 million investment from BMW.

MINI's Head Stefanie Wurst emphasizes the brand's strong heritage, emphasizing the modernization and future-oriented approach. With pricing expected to slightly surpass the Cooper at around £32,000, the ACEMAN aims to offer a compelling choice in the competitive market. The trim lineup will mirror the Cooper's, featuring Classic, Exclusive, and Sport specifications.

Anticipated to be MINI's best-seller, the ACEMAN holds immense potential as a versatile and trendsetting vehicle. Whether as a first car or the sole car, its "newness" factor makes it a hot prospect in the electric crossover segment. As the prototypes reveal, the production version of the ACEMAN promises to be a perfect blend of style, performance, and practicality. Stay tuned for the unveiling of this groundbreaking electric crossover that is set to redefine the MINI driving experience.