► Small-series MINI Electric Convertible unveiled
► Only 150 examples are destined for the UK
► Maximum official WLTP range of 124 miles
This is the new MINI Electric Convertible. The British brand previewed a concept version of the car back in summer 2022 and, following a cascade of correspondence from interested buyers, it has now built a limited-edition production version.
It’s quite a niche offering, though. Only 999 examples will be sold in Europe, of which just 150 will make it to the UK. This exclusivity doesn’t come cheap, either – at £52,500, it’s more than £17,000 more expensive than the range-topping MINI Electric Resolute hatchback.
Underneath, the MINI Electric Convertible shares the same 181bhp motor and 32.6kWh battery pack as the MINI Electric hatchback. However, chopping the car’s roof off has negatively affected its performance, because MINI needed to regain the lost strength in its body by adding some bracing.
Bracing adds weight – so the convertible’s 0–62mph time falls to 8.2 seconds, making it almost a second slower than the hatchback. Its official WLTP driving range has also been reduced to 124 miles. MINI says the standard hatchback can manage up to 145 miles.
At least the convertible is well-equipped. There’s only one specification available – and it has a similar amount of kit to the flagship Resolute model. Key features include bronze exterior trim, heated leather seats, a heated Nappa leather steering wheel, an 8.8-inch infotainment system and a set of two-tone 17-inch alloy wheels that are made from 100 percent recycled aluminium.
There’s some clever technology, too, such as an adaptive cruise control system with a stop and go function for slow-moving traffic. There’s also a menu on the head-up display that provides eco driving tips to help you get the most amount of range from the car’s battery pack.
MINI is also quite keen to stress that the Electric Convertible’s dimensions haven’t changed over the petrol-powered car. The EV has the same amount of space inside and its boot is identical at 160 litres. Sales are set to start in April 2023.
