► New Mini crossover unveiled in Beijing
► First electric-only Mini to go on sale
► Aceman has a range of up to 252 miles
Mini has revealed the Aceman as a new compact crossover, which arrives later in 2024 as its first electric-only model.
Unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show, the Aceman is positioned between Mini’s new Cooper hatchback and Countryman SUV. It marks the firm’s return to the lucrative compact crossover segment, which it has been absent from since the ill-fated Paceman was discontinued in 2016.
First deliveries of the Aceman will start in November 2024, with prices starting from £31,800.
What’s this about it being electric-only?
Yes, that’s right, though the Aceman is not Mini’s first electric car, it is the first to be sold just as an EV. Two powertrains are available, both shared with Mini’s new electric Cooper.
There will be the Aceman E and Aceman SE, with the former using a 181bhp electric motor paired to a 42.5kWh battery. Mini claims 192 miles from a charge here, with 0-62mph dispatched in 7.9 seconds.
The Aceman SE brings a dash of extra performance and range, with a 215bhp electric motor enabling a 7.1-second 0-62mph time. Its larger 54.2kWh battery allows for a claimed 252-mile range, similar to rivals like the Peugeot e-2008.
The Aceman has a maximum charge speed of 95kW, allowing for a 10 to 80 per cent charge to be completed in ‘under 30 minutes’, Mini says.
It looks familiar?
Mini hasn’t deviated far from its 2022 Aceman concept car, with strong similarities between the two. It gets the same short overhangs, squared-off wheelarches and eye-catching grille, and though a bit different to its other models, still has a clear resemblance to both the Cooper and Countryman, which it sits between.
Round headlights are ditched in favour of a chunkier square shape, while both the lights at the front and rear can be optioned with configurable LEDs.
At 4070mm in length and 1754mm in width, the Aceman is a compact car, with dimensions in all directions smaller than a Jeep Avenger. It will be one of the smallest crossover vehicles of its type when it arrives on sale.
Overly modern interior? Tick
There are no surprises in the interior department, with the Aceman getting the same matching, minimalist interior as the new Cooper and Countryman. The cabin is centred around a new circular OLED touchscreen that controls most of the car’s functions. Those who like lots of physical buttons, it’s time to look away.
A range of recycled materials are used around the interior, not least a knitted textile material on the dashboard and door trims, as well as a fabric strap at the bottom of the steering wheel. These vary depending on trim.
Despite its dinky dimensions, Mini promises ‘generous space and plenty of legroom’ for five adults. A bold claim for something with this footprint. At 300 litres, the boot is smaller than plenty of superminis, though.
When can I get one?
Mini hasn’t said when the Aceman will be available to order, but deliveries are expected by November.
Like the rest of the Mini range, the Aceman is available in three trims – Classic, Sport and Exclusive – with prices starting from £31,800 for the Aceman E and £36,300 for the Aceman SE.
Alongside the electric Mini Cooper, the Aceman will initially be produced solely in China in Zhangjiagang, north of Shanghai. It is being produced by Spotlight Automotive, a joint venture between BMW and Great Wall Motor (GWM), though European production of the two models will be moved to Oxford in 2026, BMW has previously announced.